MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government will send over 80 disaster experts to Yogyakarta as part of a hugely expanded emergency response to Saturday's devastating earthquake.
This will increase Australia's commitment for critical humanitarian assistance to survivors of the quake to $7.5 million.
A 27-person medical team comprising surgeons, anaesthetists, operating staff, disaster medicine specialists and logisticians, led by a representative of Australia's international aid agency AusAID, will leave from Sydney today.
The team will take 12 tonnes of equipment with them.
Medical, hospital and relief supplies, including $200,000 of orthopaedic instruments are also being provided.
The extra $4.5 million follows Australia's prior commitment of $3 million for immediate humanitarian assistance to survivors of the quake which devastated the historic Indonesian city on Saturday.
Yesterday Indonesia-based medical personnel mobilised to conduct needs assessments and pave the way for the arrival of the medical and surgical personnel.
AusAID has been working in Yogyakarta since Saturday assessing priority health and logistical needs. An AusAID team including AusAID's health sector manager will be in place in Yogyakarta today.
Funds are also being provided to Muhammadiyah, an Indonesian NGO, as well as Australian NGOs and United Nations agencies to support medical and feeding programs in the worst affected areas.
Australia is closely monitoring developments and stands ready to offer additional assistance if necessary.
Media inquiries:
Tony Parkinson (Minister's Office) 0409 536 410
AusAID (Public Affairs) 0417 680 590