The Albanese Government is providing $5 million to support the global response to the Ebola outbreak and help prevent the spread of the disease.
This reflects Australia’s commitment to global health security and preventing outbreaks from becoming wider crises.
The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, is affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, and neighbouring countries are on alert.
The virus is spreading rapidly, and limited access to testing facilities means the true number of cases is unknown.
Australia’s funding, directed through the International Federation of the Red Cross and the World Health Organization (WHO), will provide vital medical care and supplies, water and sanitation services, support outbreak surveillance and preparedness, and strengthen local health systems.
US$60 million has also been released from the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund to respond to urgent humanitarian needs in the DRC, Uganda and neighbouring countries. Australia is a longstanding donor to the Fund, contributing $11 million each year.
The Albanese Government is also supporting urgent work to develop a vaccine for the virus through our contribution to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:
“This funding reflects Australia’s commitment to global health security in an increasingly connected world.
“We are acting to support the responders and local communities that are on the frontline and prevent the further spread of Ebola.
“Strong international partnerships are critical to managing health threats like Ebola and reducing their wider impacts.”
Quotes attributable to International Development Minister Dr Anne Aly:
“When crises unfold, speed matters. Australia’s support for the World Health Organization and the Red Cross helps ensure assistance can reach people quickly.
“Australia’s funding will help to save lives, contain the virus and reduce the risk of it spreading further.
Our funding plays an important role in the coordinated international response, keeping the global community – including Australians – safe.”
