Supporting the response to Tropical Cyclone Maila

Australia will provide $2.5 million in humanitarian assistance to Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to support their responses to Tropical Cyclone Maila.

An initial $1.5 million will be provided to Solomon Islands, where the most severe impacts have been felt in remote communities across Western and Choiseul provinces. A state of disaster has been declared in those provinces.

Australia has released an initial $1 million in support for Papua New Guinea to respond to humanitarian needs arising from the impact of the cyclone, with a particular focus on regions most heavily impacted including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and islands affected in Milne Bay Province.

Australia’s support will deliver lifesaving assistance to vulnerable communities, including delivery of humanitarian relief supplies and technical assistance. Funding will also be delivered through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership program with non-government organisations supporting the work of local partners.  

Australia will work closely with the Governments of Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to coordinate the effective delivery of this assistance and support local response efforts.

We offer our condolences for the tragic loss of life associated with the cyclone. Our thoughts are with the people of Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea during this challenging time.

Attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong:

“Our focus is on getting essential support on the ground quickly to help those most affected in Solomon Islands and PNG.

“In times of crisis, Australia stands shoulder to shoulder with our Pacific partners.”

Attributable to Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy:

“Australia will always respond when disaster strikes.

“We will continue working closely with the Governments of Solomon Islands and PNG to deliver support where it is needed most.”

Attributable to Minister for International Development, Dr Anne Aly:

"This funding will help address the urgent humanitarian needs of our nearest neighbours and support vulnerable people, including women and girls.”