MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Australia has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nauru that
will help address Nauru's longer-term challenges alongside the management of the
Offshore Processing Centre.
The MOU is effective until June 2005 and signals an increased level of
cooperation between the two countries.
As part of the MOU, Australia has committed an additional $22.5 million in
development assistance to help Nauru stabilise the country's economy and
strengthen law and order.
In keeping with the Australian Government's focus on good governance in the
Pacific, Australia was pleased to respond positively to Nauru's request for
additional assistance including the placement of a number of Australian
officials in key in-line areas.
Australia will provide an in-line Secretary of Finance and, subject to a
scoping study, a Police Commissioner as key measures to address Nauru's most
serious and immediate challenges.
The Secretary of Finance will be looking at issues including reforms to
Nauru's budget processes, exploring new revenue sources, improving revenue
collection, and seeking better value for money on all government sector
expenditure and activities.
Nauru's remaining assets and liabilities will also be assessed before the
commencement of an appropriate re-structure is undertaken.
We welcome Nauru's continuing commitment to work in close cooperation with
Australia and together we will work to ensure appropriate legislation is adopted
to guarantee that Australian officials have the necessary powers required to
effect the reforms Nauru so urgently needs.
Media contacts:
Chris Kenny (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 or 0419 206 890
Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 or 0412 804 489