Updated 17 December 2004
Australia is providing nearly $67,000 to help victims of the Manam Island volcanic eruptions in PNG.
The funding will be channeled through the Australian Red Cross to support the PNG Red Cross to provide humanitarian relief for up to 9,000 people affected by the eruptions.
The money will go towards providing water containers for 1,500 families on the island so that water can be stored safely and avoid being contaminated by volcanic ash.
The funds will also be used to acquire tarpaulins and tents for emergency and longer-term shelter. This will be for people whose homes have been damaged or those who have been voluntarily relocated to the mainland.
The Red Cross will also provide community health and hygiene education programs.
Volcanic activity on Manam Island has been increasing in intensity since October 2004. Ash has caused extensive damage to food crops and contaminated water supplies. The Government of PNG has begun periodic food distributions to avert a critical food shortage on the island and is supporting voluntary evacuations to the mainland.
Villages have reported increasing incidences of gastro-intestinal and respiratory health problems caused by exposure to volcanic ash and drinking contaminated water.
Australian officials will continue to work closely with PNG's National Disaster Management Office to monitor the volcanic activity on Manam Island.
Australia stands ready to provide further assistance if required.