ADF responds in wake of two cyclones that hit 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.

CAPTION: Humanitarian aid supplies are loaded onto a C-17A Globemaster heading to Vanuatu as part of the Australian government’s response to Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin. Photo by Leading Aircraftwoman Taylor Anderson.

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 C-17A Globemaster that departed from RAAF Base Amberley this morning.

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.

The Australian government is working closely with partners such as France and New Zealand to support Vanuatu’s own response.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said the Australian Defence Force, as part of the whole-of-government effort, was coordinating closely with the Pacific family to provide the best support possible to the Ni-Vanuatu people.

Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy said Australia’s thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu at this difficult time.

“The deployment of this rapid assessment team builds on our longstanding disaster preparedness and humanitarian assistance activities in Vanuatu and across the region,” he said.

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