MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Australia has offered $1 million in immediate assistance to survivors of an earthquake in Indonesia this morning. The Indonesian Red Cross estimates at least 249 people have been killed and around 1000 more injured.
The Australian Government's international aid Agency AusAID will provide the funding through the Indonesian Red Cross and Red Crescent Society and other key relief agencies to enable them to meet the urgent needs of victims such as medical assistance, food and shelter.
Australia offers condolences to the families of the victims and stands ready to offer additional assistance if necessary.
The earthquake, measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale, struck Indonesia's Central Java Province early this morning with the epicentre 25 kilometres south of the densely populated city Yogyakarta. There has been considerable damage to the city and the surrounding area.
AusAID is continuing to closely monitor the situation in Indonesia.
Media inquiries:
Tony Parkinson (Minister's Office) 0409 536 410
AusAID (Public Affairs) 0417 680 590