Minister for Defence, Minister for Foreign Affairs - Joint media release - Additional support for Fiji

Today we announce a further package of assistance to support Fiji in its reconstruction efforts following Tropical Cyclone Winston.

The Australian Government will provide an additional $20 million to rebuild critical infrastructure and increase resilience to natural disasters.

Australian funding will support the rebuilding of schools and medical clinics and restoration of water and sanitation services.

We will also work with the people of Fiji to repair damaged markets so farmers and market vendors can return to work and support their families, and rebuild accommodation facilities for women vendors. New infrastructure will be designed to better withstand the impact of natural disasters.

Today’s announcement builds on $15 million in humanitarian assistance that has provided life-saving supplies and access to health services to 200,000 people.

As the declared State of Natural Disaster in Fiji comes to an end, the remaining Australian Defence Force contingent will depart from Fiji over the coming days. Over the past two months, at the request of the Fiji Government, approximately 1000 ADF personnel have provided extensive life-saving supplies, equipment and expertise to the people of Fiji.

The ADF delivered over 140 tonnes of aid, carried out 340 infrastructure assessments and helped repair nine schools, three medical centres, five community centres and four churches.

Australia remains committed to supporting Fiji’s recovery and assisting our friends and neighbours in times of crisis.

Foreign Minister’s Office:         Rachel Obradovic 0478 488 874

Defence Minister’s Office:        Henry Budd 0411 321 644