The Morrison Government must guarantee assistance to our Pacific island neighbours for their recovery from Tropical Cyclone Harold.
The cyclone has already devastated Fiji and Vanuatu and is now on the way to Tonga.
The timing of this disaster could not be worse.
In addition to battling the health impacts of coronavirus, the region is facing a significant economic downturn because of the pandemic’s impact on Pacific tourism.
There are fears that Cyclone Harold could be worse than 2015’s Cyclone Pam, which left nearly $600 million worth of damage.
The Pacific region will need foreign assistance to recover from this disaster.
During our summer bushfire crisis, Pacific nations including Fiji and Vanuatu sent donations and members of their defence forces Australia to assist us in our time of need.
We must return the favour.
It is essential the Morrison Government provides assistance to the Pacific nations impacted by Cyclone Harold.