Maria Vamvakinou (Calwell, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to speak on the devastating tragedy in Morocco as a result of the earthquake which has so far claimed 2,800 lives. I welcome the Australian government's announcement that Australia will provide $1 million in emergency humanitarian assistance to people affected by the devastating earthquake in Morocco. This is Morocco's deadliest earthquake in more than six decades. The funds will be provided through local organisations, including the Red Cross and the Red Crescent, to deliver immediate life-saving assistance, including emergency shelter, first aid, protection and psychological support.

We are seeing the international community step up to support and assist with rescue efforts amidst this unfolding humanitarian crisis. Amidst the devastation, the images coming through are heartbreaking. People are working tirelessly against the clock to find and rescue survivors amongst the rubble. The level of destruction appears to be overwhelming, with damage done to the cultural heritage sites that Morocco is renowned for, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. As chair of the Australia-Morocco parliamentary friendship group, I want to pass on my deep sympathies to Her Excellency the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Australia, Ms Wassane Zailachi, and pay tribute to the warmth and resilience of the people of Morocco. I've no doubt the spirit of resilience of the people of Morocco will be what defines this humanitarian crisis as they try to overcome this tragedy.