MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government has committed a further $4.5 million to the South Asia earthquake relief effort, bringing Australia's total contribution to $10 million.
Of the latest contribution, $2.5 million will go to UN agencies and $2 million to Australian non-government organisations (NGOs) active in the region.
Australian funding will go to the World Health Organization (WHO) for medical supplies, field hospitals and emergency kits and to UNICEF for water containers and purification tablets.
The Australian funding for NGOs will be provided to those who can be immediately effective in meeting urgent water, sanitation and shelter needs.
The increased funding comes in expectation of a significant Flash Appeal by the United Nations. Our additional funding reflects early advice of Pakistan's priorities and UN need.
It is estimated that up to 30,000 people were killed, more than 40,000 injured and that more than four million people have been affected by the earthquakes that rocked Pakistan, Afghanistan and India on Saturday afternoon (AEST).
The UN says that 1,000 hospitals have been destroyed and that there is a severe shortage of medical supplies.
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's office) 0419 206 890
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590