AUSTRALIA MOBILIZES RECONSTRUCTION EFFORT FOR SUMATRA QUAKE VICTIMS

Jakarta, Oct 6 (ANTARA) - Australia continues to support the Indonesian government relief and reconstruction efforts following last Wednesday's devastating earthquake in Padang, West Sumatra.

Australian embassy media release on Wednesday said the country would support Indonesia through the deployment of Australian Defense Force (ADF) personnel and assets to assist.

It said the support followed the Indonesian government's acceptance of Australia's offer of emergency assistance on October 1, 2009.

The support includes the deployment of ADF medical and health specialists providing a primary health care team and an environmental health team.

A ten-man military engineer reconnaissance team to assist the Indonesian Government assess civil infrastructure integrity.

Two C-130 aircraft, which continue to support the Indonesian and Australian aid effort by transporting personnel, emergency equipment and stores between Jakarta and Padang.

Other C130 and C17 aircraft are able to be deployed as needed to provide additional medical and other assistance to Indonesia
As of 5 October, ADF aircraft had undertaken 6 flights to Padang.

"Australia is committed to working closely with Indonesian authorities to assist with relief and reconstruction efforts," said Charge D'Affaires Paul Robilliard.

"I am pleased that Australian defense assets have been deployed quickly to assist with these vital tasks," he added.

This assistance is in addition to the A$2.8 million initial response package provided by Australia to Indonesia in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

At this stage there are no Australians confirmed among those killed or injured.

Australian Embassy officials continue strenuous efforts to confirm the welfare of other Australians who may have been in the area at the time.