MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government will contribute to relief efforts following the devastating earthquake in Turkey.
The Government is appalled by the devastation and loss of life caused by the earthquake that struck Ismit, east of Istanbul in the early hours of Tuesday 16 August.
On behalf of all Australians I wish to extend the Government's sympathy to all those affected by this disaster.
We understand that more than 2,000 people have died in the earthquake and many thousands have been injured. As the quake struck in a heavily populated area when most people were sleeping the numbers are expected to climb.
The Australian Government will make an initial contribution of $A1 million to international humanitarian relief efforts.
The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Cresent Societies will receive $A400,000 to assist around 100,000 victims. The funds will be used to support the Turkish Red Crescent relief operations and to provide urgently needed items such as water, food and medical supplies for victims.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) will receive $A600,000. The OCHA has activated its disaster response system including the alert, mobilisation and deployment of a disaster assessment and coordination team. Australian support will be used for immediate emergency relief and early rehabilitation needs.
All urgently needed supplies and technical assistance for earthquake victims will be obtained locally.
If Australians wish to assist the victims of the earthquake I would encourage them to make a donation to Turkish earthquake appeal by an Australian aid organisation.
Media contacts:
Innes Willox (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206 890
Deborah Nesbitt (AusAID) 02 62064966 / 0417 683 767