Australia to aid flood victims

JAKARTA: The Australian government will provide A$100,000 to help victims of flooding in Sumatra and Sulawesi and assist the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in handling further flood emergencies expected over the next few weeks.

Australia's contribution is in response to the Indonesian Floods 2004 emergency appeal, launched by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The funds will be channeled through the Australian Red Cross.

"The Australian funds will help meet immediate needs such as shelter and the replenishment of household items," said Australian Ambassador David Ritchie.

Contributions to the emergency appeal will also be used to reinforce the PMI's capacity to respond quickly to emerging disasters. Further floods and landslides are likely as a result of predicted heavy rainfall this month.

Since 1997, Australia has contributed over A$126 million in humanitarian assistance to the victims of disasters and conflicts across Indonesia. --JP