MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to congratulate the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) for being awarded the MTV 'Free Your Mind' award.
The award seeks to raise awareness of key social issues, and in this case, the efforts of Australian aid workers in managing and delivering tsunami relief to affected communities.
Since December 26, the Australian Government, through AusAID, has funded the deployment of over 400 aid workers to tsunami-affected countries including AusAID staff, doctors, engineers, teachers and scientists.
The hard work and dedication of Australia's aid workers, in what could only be described as incredibly difficult of circumstances, is to be commended.
Australia has a strong track record of responding to humanitarian disasters.
In 2004 alone, the Australian Government, through AusAID responded to 22 international humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters including cyclones in Niue, Samoa and Vanuatu and floods in Nepal, Bangladesh, Fiji and Vietnam.
Australia, through AusAID, is putting this experience to good use in managing and delivering the Australian Government's $1.06 billion package of tsunami assistance.
I would like to especially recognise AusAID staff and other Australian aid workers; this award is a reflection of their professionalism, expertise and dedication.
Finally I would like to thank MTV Australia for recognising the work of Australians across the public, private and volunteer sectors in responding the devastating Boxing Day tsunami.
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's office) 0419 206 890
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590