The Albanese Government is answering the calls of the Pacific, providing more than $1 million in assistance to respond to current dengue outbreaks across the region.
The number of dengue cases is the highest recorded in the Pacific in the past decade, with 19 deaths reported this year.
Outbreaks have been declared in Kiribati, Nauru, Samoa and Tuvalu, while Fiji and Tonga recently announced that their outbreaks have ended.
We extend our condolences to those affected, particularly those families and communities that have lost loved ones.
In response to discussions with Nauru, Samoa and Tuvalu, Australia's support will include technical advice, and delivery of insecticides, dengue test kits, and medical and laboratory supplies.
Australia is also supporting the deployment of medical personnel to Nauru, and an Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) will deploy with New Zealand's Emergency Medical Team to provide support in Samoa.
This builds on our longstanding support for resilient health systems in the Pacific as well as our history of emergency response, through the World Health Organization, the Pacific Community, the James Cook University-led PacMOSSI program, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies' Disaster Response Emergency Fund.
We acknowledge the swift and proactive measures taken by Pacific governments in their response to the current dengue outbreaks.
Deployment of supplies and personnel has already begun. Australia stands ready to provide additional assistance if requested.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator Penny Wong:
"Australia stands with our Pacific community during this challenging time, as we act to assist them in accelerating their response.
"We've listened to the Pacific countries in their request for assistance and will continue working with our neighbours to fight this outbreak."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy:
"Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this devastating outbreak.
"We are working closely with our Pacific neighbors and stand ready to provide additional support if needed.
"We hope that together we can end this outbreak as quickly as possible."
Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development Anne Aly:
"Australia is backing the leadership and priorities of our Pacific neighbours, supporting their response to dengue outbreaks.
"We are working together to ensure the prosperity and wellbeing of Pacific communities."
