3 Apr 2012

Australia promises Fiji substantial disaster aid

10:39 am on 3 April 2012

Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr today confirmed Canberra is providing a range of support to Fiji and assistance to stranded Australians following the heavy rain around the Fiji tourist belt.

Around 2,000 Australians are believed to be stranded in hotels and resorts there.

Mr Carr says Australia is working closely with Fiji organisations to assess the damage and determine what emergency support is needed in affected communities.

He has told his Fiji counterpart, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, that the Australian government is ready to provide assistance of up to one million Australian dollars in disaster response.

This money is to cover the costs of medical and sanitation supplies such as tarpaulins, water purification tablets and water containers and blankets.