Visit to Fiji

Tomorrow I will travel to Fiji to see first-hand the devastating impact Tropical Cyclone Winston has had on the people and economy of Fiji.

The Australian Government responded rapidly following Cyclone Winston. To date we have committed $15 million in humanitarian assistance to Fiji. We have dispatched around 30 relief flights from Australia to Fiji to deliver more than 500 tonnes of humanitarian support and equipment.

We have also deployed Australia's largest Navy vessel, the HMAS Canberra, with approximately 60 tonnes of emergency relief supplies.

Australia's assistance will reach up to 200,000 people with much needed shelter kits, access to safe water and hygiene items for the worst affected communities. Australian medical teams have also treated over 1,500 people in mobile health clinics, including specialist treatment for women affected by the Cyclone.

Australia will work closely with Fijian authorities to make urgent repairs to schools, medical clinics and basic infrastructure.

As part of my visit I will meet with Prime Minister Bainimarama, Foreign Minister Kubuabola and Minister for National Disaster Management Seruiratu. I will reassure the people of Fiji of Australia's ongoing support at this difficult time.

I will also meet with and thank the hundreds of Australians working alongside Fijians to deliver the Australian Government's humanitarian response to Cyclone Winston.

Australia remains committed to supporting Fiji's long term recovery in full cooperation with the Government of Fiji.