Australia supports Philippines after Typhoon Hagupit

Australia extends its sympathies and support to the people of the Philippines affected by Typhoon Hagupit, locally known as Ruby.

Hagupit made landfall on Saturday night in Dolores, in eastern Philippines, as a category three typhoon, bringing torrential rains and strong winds.

It comes only 12 months after Typhoon Haiyan devastated parts of the Philippines and more than 7000 people lost their lives.

Australia is a good friend of the Philippines and stands ready to help as required.

I welcome initial reports that preparedness by communities and local and national governments has helped limit the impact on lives and infrastructure.

The Australian Government is providing 800 metric tonnes of rice to support families affected by Typhoon Hagupit, delivered through Australia's prepositioned stores with the World Food Programme.

In addition, Australia has deployed officials to the affected areas to make further assessments of the damage and to coordinate any further Australian consular and humanitarian assistance.

Australia is working closely with the Philippine Government and international partners to obtain more information on the impact of the typhoon as it makes its way across the archipelago.