AUSTRALIA has provided further urgent humanitarian assistance following the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The Royal Australian Air Force has delivered essential food supplies to support communities in Milne Bay, following disruptions to local food sources and supply chains.
The airlift provided critical assistance to remote and affected areas, ensuring families have access to nutrition while recovery and relief efforts continue.
This support forms part of Australia’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the region, and builds on Australia’s initial commitment of PGK 3 million (approximately AUD 1.1 million) provided to bolster the national response.
Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea Ewen McDonald flew to Milne Bay on a Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan aircraft alongside PNGDF aircraft crew who are supporting response efforts.
“We are family with PNG. Our whole mission, including the people we have on the ground here, have been focused on this priority and no other priority than responding to cyclone Maila over the last week,” Mr. McDonald said.
“Australia will support this recovery now but also the rebuilding across the country that is required of road infrastructure.”
He joined Prime Minster James Marape in Alotau who has been visiting some of the remote affected areas.
Australia’s assistance is being delivered through a multi-pronged approach, including direct support to the Government of Papua New Guinea and funding through non-government organizations (NGOs). These partners are working directly within local communities to distribute hygiene kits, provide clean water, and offer emergency shelter.
In close consultation with the Government of Papua New Guinea, Australia remains ready to provide further assistance as detailed assessments of the damage continue to emerge.