MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Three Australian non-government organisations have been chosen to implement
the Australian Government's latest emergency assistance package to the
earthquake-stricken Indian state of Gujarat. Their efforts are expected to
benefit more than 800,000 people.
The additional $1.5 million in assistance announced by the Prime Minister on
30 January will be provided to the following agencies:
- The Australian Red Cross - $500,000 for logistical support and the
provision of temporary shelter materials in the form of plastic sheeting and
tarpaulins.
- Tear Australia - $500,000 for provision of safe drinking water, basic
sanitation, essential medicines and trauma counseling.
- Community Aid Abroad (Oxfam Australia) - $500,000 for provision of
immediate food, drinking water and medical needs.
These organisations were selected after broad consultations with the NGO
community and an assessment by AusAID, the Australian Government's overseas aid
agency. Their relief efforts will cover a significant area of Gujarat ,
including the city of Bhuj, and Kutch, Bachau taluka, Patan, Surendranagar and
Ahmedabad districts.
Australia's commitment to the Indian earthquake relief effort now stands at
$2.5 million. An initial allocation of $1 million was made immediately after the
disaster to UNICEF for use in the provision of safe drinking water, sanitation,
medical supplies, shelter and trauma counselling.
Media contacts:
Matt Francis (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206 890
Fionna Douglas (AusAID) 02 6206 4960
/ 0412 804
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