The Government of Australia has announced an additional $2.5 million in aid to Sri Lanka, bringing Australia’s total response to the impacts of Cyclone Ditwah to $3.5 million.
A statement from the Australian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Australia is coordinating with all affected countries, including Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Support is being provided through Australian NGOs and the United Nations to meet urgent humanitarian needs.
Since October, Australia’s total assistance to the region has exceeded $14 million, helping local and international partners deliver urgent, life-saving support to communities impacted by natural disasters.
In recent weeks, countries across the region—including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam—have suffered devastating cyclones, floods, earthquakes, and landslides.
Australia’s support includes emergency relief supplies, shelter, food, water, sanitation, as well as assistance for displaced communities covering health and education, with particular focus on the most vulnerable, including women, girls, and people with disabilities.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong said:
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by the recent floods and devastation in Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka. We are working with our partners in the region to deliver life-saving assistance and accelerate their response. Australia is committed to supporting our neighbours in good times and bad – we are a partner our region can count on.”
The Australian government reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with countries and communities in the Indo-Pacific as a reliable partner in disaster relief and recovery efforts.
