MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government will contribute towards relief efforts following the devastating earthquake in Colombia.
On behalf of all Australians I wish to extend the Government's sympathy to those affected by this disaster.
The earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday and registered 6 on the Richter scale. It is the worst earthquake to hit Colombia in more than a century.
The death toll stands at more than 1,000, with thousands more people injured in the disaster.
The city of Armenia has been devastated by the quake. More than half of its population of 300,000 has been made homeless. Other towns and villages in the region have also been seriously affected.
Australia will provide $500,000 for relief efforts. This will be channelled through international organisations such as the Red Cross and United Nations humanitarian organisations involved in the relief efforts. Australia's assistance will be used to meet immediate relief needs such as medical assistance, food, and shelter. A contribution of this kind is the best way for Australia to help quickly the victims of the disaster.
The funds will be provided from the emergency relief budget managed by the Australian Government's overseas aid agency, AusAID.
Media contacts:
Geoff Leach (Minister's office) 02 62777500 or 0419 206 890
Matt Francis (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 / 0417 683 126