Australia and NZ to provide $1m in aid

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Australia and New Zealand will together provide up to FJ$1 million to assist the people of Fiji affected by the recent flooding.

This assistance will be made immediately available to the Fiji Red Cross for the distribution of essential relief items to flood victims followed by support for other agencies identified as best placed to meet immediate needs.

Australia’s acting Head of Mission Judith Robinson and New Zealand’s acting Head of Mission Phillip Taula  announced their governments would contribute up to FJ$500,000 each to help the rehabilitation efforts.

It will enable the Fiji Red Cross and agencies to replenish pre-positioned emergency supplies like water purification tablets, blankets and tarpaulins and support the provision of much needed emergency supplies to affected communities.

Permanent secretary for Information, Sharon Smith-Johns said “Fiji is deeply appreciative of the support of Australia and New Zealand in this time of difficulty.”

The United States through American Red Cross has pledged to donate $50,000 to flood victims in the Western Division.

In a press conference this morning the government confirmed that they have also been receiving other offers of aid from various organisations and governments.

She said the Fijian Government continues to focus on ensuring the continued safety of its citizens and guests.
“Our emergency personnel are working around the clock to make certain all Fijians receive adequate assistance.

“The support of our neighbours will greatly benefit efforts to return the lives of those affected by the flooding back to normal,” she said.

Prime Minster Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has also launched a flood relief appeal to assist families affected by the flooding.

People and interested parties intending to make donations to the appeal can make deposits to the BSP bank account number 4706578.