RAAF assists in damage assessment for Vanuatu

A RAAF C-130J has arrived in Vanuatu and is conducting aerial damage assessments as part of the Australian Government’s response in support of the Government of Vanuatu following Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin. Additionally, the Australian Government will deploy a Rapid Assessment Team to survey cyclone damage at the request of the Government of Vanuatu. The 12-person team and an initial assistance package are being transported to Vanuatu on a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-17A Globemaster that departed from RAAF Base Amberley. The team will survey the impact of Tropical Cyclone Judy and Tropical Cyclone Kevin and includes officers from federal, and state and territory partners, with a range of disaster, health, infrastructure, power and humanitarian assessment capabilities. Australia’s initial package of assistance includes shelters, water purification supplies and other essential items for impacted communities. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said, “The Australian Defence Force as a part of the whole-of-government effort is coordinating closely with the Pacific family to provide the best support possible to the Ni-Vanuatu people.” Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong said, “We are providing rapid assistance to support those who have been affected by this disaster. We are committed to working with the Govt and people  of Vanuatu to support the recovery.” Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy said, “Our thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu at this difficult time. Australia stands with the Pacific family during this crisis – now and into the future. The deployment of this rapid assessment team builds on our longstanding disaster preparedness and humanitarian assistance activities in Vanuatu and across the region.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]