Australia provides support to Indonesia following earthquake

Today I announce the Australian Government will provide $1 million in humanitarian assistance to help Indonesia's own efforts in responding to the devastating earthquake in Aceh.

Our support will go towards essential household items, shelter, health and first aid, clean water and helping families to get back to work. We will also provide 1,500 family kits that include emergency household and hygiene items, 2,200 tarpaulins and 100 tents and will help 5,500 people in the worst-affected areas.

The Indonesian Government is coordinating the response and has requested in-country assistance. Australia's contribution will be made through the Indonesian Red Cross..

Over 100 people have been killed and 750 injured in the earthquake, which also displaced 11,000 people and destroyed 10,500 homes, along with schools and a major public hospital. The full impact of the earthquake is still being assessed.

Australia and Indonesia have a long history of working together on disaster responses. We will continue to monitor the situation in Aceh, and the Australian Government stands ready to respond to additional requests for more assistance from the Indonesian Government.