Australia responds to urgent relief needs for victims of Typhoon Yolanda
Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop today announced the Australian Government will provide an initial Php15.5 million (A$390,500) in emergency relief supplies to assist communities devastated by Typhoon Yolanda.
"Australia, as a close friend of the Philippines, is saddened by the loss of life and damage to homes and property in the wake of this tragedy," Ms Bishop said.
Australia's contribution will help with the urgent relief operations of the Philippine Government.
Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Bill Tweddell said, “Australia will deploy emergency family kits which include sleeping mats, blankets, mosquito nets, and water containers through the Philippine Red Cross, and reproductive health kits through the UN Population Fund.”
“I admire the resilience and courage that Filipinos demonstrate under extreme pressure. Australia is coordinating with the Philippine Government and other humanitarian partners on ways Australia can further assist with this daunting relief effort, and we stand ready to provide further assistance if required.”
Two Australian disaster experts have also been deployed to assist the Philippine Government and the United Nations to conduct a rapid needs assessment in the worst affected areas.