Senator the Hon. Robert Hill,
Minister for Defence
Leader of the Government in the Senate

Australia is contributing further assistance to communities devastated by tsunami in Asia.

Defence Minister Senator Robert Hill has confirmed that the four Royal Australian Air Force C130 Hercules aircraft that have been dispatched to Indonesia will remain to assist the relief effort by providing logistical support to the Indonesian authorities.

"The Australian Government recognises the urgency associated with the emerging crisis impacting upon communities in the Indian Ocean. These aircraft add to our existing commitment and the growing international contribution", Senator Hill said.

Senator Hill confirmed that the four aircraft would provide priority assistance to the devastated Northern Sumatra region. The aircraft will begin arriving in Sumatra today and will remain there in support of Indonesian relief efforts.

Senator Hill said the Hercules aircraft would provide a means to transport both emergency supplies and medical relief in Sumatra including our medical survey team of ten specialists.

"These aircraft will transport medical supplies, water purification equipment and tablets and essential power generation capabilities in the most seriously effected areas", Senator Hill said.

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