MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Billson
Australia is providing more than $300,000 to help people forced to flee the Manam Island volcano eruptions in Papua New Guinea, the Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Bruce Billson announced today.
'This latest contribution will help more than 11,000 people affected by the volcano which has spewed ash onto nearby villages, contaminating the water supply and destroying homes,' Mr Billson said.
'Funding will be directed through non-government aid organisations currently working in PNG and assist in providing safe drinking water, toilets and hygiene training for people now living in care centres on the mainland.
'More than $210,000 will be channelled through World Vision to provide critical health services for displaced people and $85,000 to CARE Australia to assist the Provincial Disaster Office manage the relief operation,' Mr Billson said.
'This latest contribution follows nearly $70,000 provided by the Australian Government last December to the Australian Red Cross.
'The Australian Government is committed to an effective ongoing aid program in the region and also providing an effective rapid disaster response to help communities in need and stands ready to provide further assistance to PNG should it be requested,' Mr Billson said.
In 2004-2005, Australia increased overseas aid funding by nearly 10 per cent to $2.133 billion and augmented by an estimated $14 million to $146 million, our international humanitarian, emergency and refugee programs.
Media inquiries:
Shane Fairlie (Mr Billson's office) (03) 9781 2333 or 0408 680 442
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590