New Australian-Funded Health Clinic in Central Java

The Australian Embassy Jakarta today welcomed the opening of a Muhammadiyah Health Clinic in Rembang, Central Java that has been built with funding support from the Australian Embassy.

Australia worked with Muhammadiyah and the local community to construct the new Muhammadiyah Health Clinic building in the sub-district of Pamotan, Rembang, Central Java.

“The new health clinic will provide better access to improved health services to this community. It is pleasing that our joint efforts will have such a positive impact on people in need,” Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Bill Farmer said.

The Australian Embassy’s Direct Aid Program is a small-grants scheme which provides funds for community groups and non-government organisations engaged in development activities on a not-for-profit basis.

“The primary objective of the Direct Aid Program is to promote sustainable development initiatives that help communities boost their living standards,” Mr Farmer said.

Australia continues to strengthen its partnership with Indonesia and is expected to provide up to Rp21.3 trillion (A$2.5 billion) in development assistance between 2009 and 2013. Indonesia is the largest recipient of Australia’s development assistance program, which focuses mainly on education, health, governance and infrastructure.

The Australian Government last year signed memoranda of understanding with Muhammadiyah, which pledged to work in partnership with Australia to improve education, basic health and disaster response services across Indonesia.

Australia earlier this month provided up to A$250,000 to Muhammadiyah following the recent deadly earthquake in West Sumatra. This assistance will support thousands of victims and provide medical teams, temporary schools, school books and trauma counselling for survivors of the earthquake.

The Australian Embassy Jakarta was represented at the opening ceremony by First Secretary (Political), Anthony Whitmore.

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