MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Billson
Officials from Australia, France and New Zealand are meeting in Tahiti today to review
disaster response strategies for the upcoming South Pacific cyclone season, the
Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Bruce Billson, announced today.
'Disasters can only be anticipated, not predicted, so preparedness and response capability
is everything and Australia values our regional partnerships as a means to rapidly respond
to help disaster victims,' Mr Billson said.
'Over the past two years, the Australian Government in partnership with France and New
Zealand have responded to four major cyclones that caused loss of life and widespread
damage in South Pacific nations. There is a high probability of more natural disasters
over the next few months.
'Under the France Australia New Zealand (FRANZ) Agreement of 1992, there are regular
meetings by the three partners to review disaster relief cooperation to respond to
cyclones and other natural disasters.'
The Parliamentary Secretary said Australia's recent rapid response to help victims of the
earthquake on the Indonesian island of Alor, demonstrates the benefits of forward-thinking
disaster strategies.
'Because of mechanisms already in place, Australian-funded emergency relief supplies such
as medicine and shelter, were able to reach victims within hours of the disaster,' Mr
Billson said.
Earlier this year, Australia provided emergency cyclone relief, including food, water and
first aid to victims in Samoa, Vanuatu and Niue.
'The Australian Government is committed to an effective ongoing aid program in the region
and also providing a rapid disaster response to help communities in need,' Mr Billson
said.
In 2004-2005, Australia increased overseas aid funding by nearly ten per cent to $2.133
billion and augmented by an estimated $14 million to $146 million, our international
humanitarian, emergency and refugee programs.
Media inquiries:
Shane Fairlie (Mr Billson's Office) (02) 6277 4879 or 0408 680 442
Dominic Morice (AusAID) (02) 6206 4220 or 0417 683 126