Australian Assistance for Tsunami Rehabilitation

MEDIA RELEASE

Released By:
Downer

Australia will provide assistance with
resettlement and rehabilitation activities for victims of the Papua New Guinea
tsunami disaster.

Australians have responded quickly and
generously to the plight of those affected by the tsunami. We have done so as
good neighbours and because of the close and long-standing relationship between
our two countries. Immediate relief needs are now well in hand.

The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Mr
Bill Skate, expressed his thanks for Australia's quick and effective response
during his meetings with the Prime Minister and myself today.

The Prime Minister announced earlier today
that, in addition to the relief assistance already provided, Australia will
provide further assistance for rehabilitation work in Sandaun province.

Australia will provide assistance to
ensure the following needs are met: building schools and health centres and
ensuring they are accessible for disabled persons; providing medical support,
especially orthopaedic and orthotic support for survivors with amputations;
agriculture and fisheries programs to rebuild the local economy; rebuilding
communities in new areas; upgrading and repairs to roads; support for earthquake
monitoring and geological survey work; and assistance with planning.

Australia will provide additional
assistance of in the order of $1 million, building on the $2 million expended
through the aid program on immediate relief efforts. This assistance is over and
above the current agreed Development Cooperation Treaty level.

The Australian Government will also
contribute to rehabilitation activities through existing and planned development
assistance projects. A number of projects are already in progress in Sandaun
Province and can be adjusted, in consultation with the Government of Papua New
Guinea, to respond to the needs of people affected by the tsunami disaster.

Australia's assistance will carefully
targeted in line with needs assessments which are currently being undertaken. It
will be coordinated with the PNG Government's own rehabilitation efforts and
with assistance provided by other donors in order to avoid any duplication of
efforts.