MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Hunt
Australia is providing $150,000 to help survivors of extensive flooding in and around the Indonesian capital Jakarta, Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Greg Hunt, said today.
'Our contribution through the Indonesian Red Cross will provide for 5,000 emergency food parcels and 5,000 hygiene kits to be distributed in affected areas,' Mr Hunt said.
'We will also provide other high priority items such as drinking water and sleeping mats.
'The hygiene kits include buckets, soap, washing powder, dental kits, plastic storage bags and towels,' Mr Hunt said.
Seasonal torrential rains have affected all five districts of Jakarta with close to 200,000 people displaced.
The Government of Indonesia has confirmed that nine people have died.
'Whilst strenuous inquiries have been made, to date no information has been received of any Australian casualties. The Australian Government will provide updates as more information comes to hand.'
The worst flooding has occurred in the east and the south of the city. Water levels in flood gates are higher than normal, and roads in many parts of central Jakarta have been closed to traffic amid rising flood waters.
The Government of Indonesia is providing close to 300 boats and more than 700 vehicles to assist in the evacuation of people from their homes.
'Australian Government representatives in Jakarta are in contact with the Government of Indonesia and relevant humanitarian agencies, and continue to monitor the situation.
'Australia offers sincere condolences to the Government and people of Indonesia and stands ready to provide further assistance if required,' Mr Hunt said.
Media contacts:
John Deller (Mr Hunt's office) 0400 496 596
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590