MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce that the Australian Government will provide $6 million to help developing APEC economies bolster their defences against emerging and infectious diseases such as Avian Influenza.
These funds will strengthen response mechanisms, build effective and transparent regional communication systems, and develop business continuity and recovery plans.
The $6 million package consists of $4 million through the APEC Support Fund for capacity building including preparedness planning, surveillance and reporting, and $2 million to strengthen linkages between Australian and APEC member institutions in animal and human health.
This new funding brings Australia's total contribution for addressing the threat of pandemics to $47 million. It will help APEC economies strengthen their human and animal health systems irrespective of whether or not a pandemic eventuates.
APEC Ministers today agreed to recommend to leaders a number of ways to enhance the ability of APEC members to address regional health threats such as avian and pandemic influenza.
These recommendations will build on the extensive work undertaken by APEC since 2001 on preparedness for, and response to, infectious disease threats, including the outcomes of the high-level regional meeting on Avian Influenza Australia hosted in Brisbane on 31 October-1 November.
The strategy is expected to include practical and immediate action including a register of regional experts and capabilities available to respond rapidly to pandemic influenza outbreaks.
Ministers noted the importance of enhanced public and business outreach and risk communication strategies and the exchange of information on border control procedures to increase transparency and reduce risks to both trade and travellers.
There was strong commitment by all ministers to address this issue and a recognition of the importance of regional capacity building to bolster regional capabilities.
The Australian Government is working vigorously to ensure we are at the leading edge of measures to avert the risk of an influenza pandemic. These measures will complement existing Australian Government assistance to the region.
The initiative will be managed by Australia's overseas aid agency, AusAID.
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's Office) +82 (0)10 8679 0336 (in Korea)
AusAID (Public Affairs) +61 417 680 590