Today (Saturday) we announce that Australia will provide $250,000 in emergency relief supplies to assist the Government of Solomon Islands respond to the needs of people affected by flooding.
This follows a request for assistance from the Government of Solomon Islands on Saturday.
In addition, Australia will provide two Australian Civilian Corps engineers and two Australian Government Rapid Response Team members to assist the Government of Solomon Islands, UN and NGO representatives in responding to the severe floods ($100,000).
This builds on an initial announcement of $50,000 in emergency assistance, made on Friday 4 April 2014.
As conveyed during my (Minister Bishop’s) conversation with Solomons Prime Minister Lilo yesterday, Australia sends its condolences to the Government and people of Solomon Islands for the loss of life caused by the flooding. Our thoughts are with those who have had their homes and livelihoods devastated by this disaster.
Staff from the Australian High Commission, along with Australian Federal Police attached to RAMSI Participating Police Force, are assisting in recovery efforts.
The Australian Government has an extensive network of emergency contacts in Solomon Islands, and will work closely with the Government of Solomon Islands to support response efforts.
Australia will continue to work with the Government of Solomon Islands and other disaster relief partners to meet the needs of those affected as more information becomes available.
The travel advice for the Solomon Islands has been changed to reflect the severe flooding. The Australian High Commission in Honiara has been contacting Australians in the affected region to determine their safety and welfare, and no Australians have been reported missing. Anyone concerned about the welfare of Australian family and friends in Solomon Islands should first attempt to contact them directly, noting that communications may be congested.
If you are unable to contact them and remain concerned about their welfare please contact the
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas, or within Australia on 1300 555 135.
Foreign Minister’s office: Gabrielle Young 0408 275 340
Defence Minister’s office: Rebecca Horton 0477 389 554
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
The Hon Julie Bishop MP
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
Senator the Hon David Johnston
