MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government has made an initial offer of up to $2 million in emergency and reconstruction assistance to the Solomon Islands Government following the damage caused by today's earthquake and tsunami.
Communication with affected areas is difficult, however, early reports suggest there has been some loss of property and injury in Solomon Islands. The Australian Government is particularly concerned by reports of possible loss of life in Solomon Islands.
We have been working with the Solomon Islands National Disaster Committee, headed by the Solomon Islands' Prime Minister, the organisation responsible for coordinating the Solomon Island's government response effort.
A more detailed assessment of the situation is underway. As more information becomes available Australia will provide targeted and specific support to the Solomon Islands Government.
Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) helicopters and fixed wing aircraft are being used to survey the extent of damage and assess immediate need. RAMSI medical teams are on stand-by to provide medical treatment to those affected by the tsunami, and the disaster response expertise of the RAMSI police has been made available.
The Australian Government also maintains an emergency store of relief items such as blankets, tarpaulins and supplies for clean water that can be dispatched immediately. Teams of disaster relief experts can also be deployed to supplement RAMSI resources in Solomon Islands.
The Australian Government and RAMSI stand ready to provide the government and people of Solomon Islands with support for reconstruction and rehabilitation when medium to long term needs are known.
Media contacts:
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590
Tony Parkinson (Mr Downer's Office) 02 6277 7500