Thu, 8th May 2008

Australia must lead response to cyclone in Burma

The Hon Andrew Robb AO MP
Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs

As the death toll in Burma continues to climb, Australia should be taking a significant leading role in responding to this disaster.

“Reports now indicate that up to 100,000 could be dead as a result of the cyclone in Burma and up to 1 million people may be dislocated.

“The $3 million in aid announced by the Government is a pittance.

“As was the case with the tsunami in late 2004, Australia should be taking a lead in responding to this tragedy.

“An Ausaid team should be made available and Australia should be prepared to spend tens of millions of dollars in assistance.

“This is our region and Australia has a major responsibility to respond effectively.

“The Rudd Government has shown a China-bias in everything it has done in the region over the last five months.

“It has ignored or offended Japan, India, Indonesia and ASEAN.

“The previous Government demonstrated that relationships with every part of the region can be maintained simultaneously.

“Australia is well placed to respond to the situation in Burma due to the investment by the Howard Government in Australia’s ability to respond to regional crises.

“In the last two budgets, over $100 million was set aside by the former Government to improve Australia’s response to emergencies in the region.