ALGA to help co-ordinate council fund-raising efforts for communities devastated by tsunamis
4 January 2005
The Australian Local Government Association will help coordinate the fund-raising efforts of the nation's 675 local councils to assist communities devastated by the tsunamis.
ALGA President, Councillor Paul Bell, said today he had been contacted by many councils wanting to coordinate community fund raising efforts to help those affected by the disaster.
"Australian communities have always been quick to help those in crisis," Cr Bell said.
"Recovery for communities affected by the tsunamis will be long and painful. Australian local government will do all it can to help in this process in collaboration with the Australian Government and the United Cities and Local Government, the body representing local government internationally.
"We want to ensure funds are used speedily and with maximum effect.
"Local government in Australia is responsible for emergency management at the local level, including disaster mitigation and recovery. We are well placed to help communities in the recovery phase, as many councils have done - and continue to do - with recovery efforts in East Timor.
"By early next week, we expect to be able to set up appropriate arrangements with the Australian Government and offer advice to Australian councils about how they can best support the international effort. This will be offered via our website and our internal communications.
"Councils have already started to respond to the disaster, helping to coordinate local appeals.
"I am also aware of at least one city that has cancelled New Year's Eve fireworks and instead donated funds to help communities devastated by the tsunamis. Others are arranging fund raising activities to be conducted in association with New Year's Eve events.
"This disaster has shocked the nation. Local government will do all it can to help the international effort to respond to this tragedy," Cr Bell said.
