SA to help its citizens in Oz floods

Published Jan 13, 2011

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The government was ready to help South Africans affected by the floods in Australia, the international relations department said on Thursday.

“The South African government stands ready as a mission in Australia to assist any South Africans who need it... obviously we will look at the assistance on a case by case basis,” said spokesman Clayson Monyela.

Monyela said several people had already made contact with the South African mission in Australia. Those who qualified for assistance were those on business, holiday or studying in that country.

French press agency, AFP, on Thursday reported that floodwaters had inundated dozens of towns, including Brisbane, Australia's largest city.

Thousands were left homeless by the flooding.

Monyela said the South African government was monitoring the situation.

The government also dealt with “several dynamics” in terms of consular assistance - there were many former South Africans who were now permanent residents of Australia, who no longer qualified for assistance by the government.

“But obviously, it is a natural disaster and we will work closely with the Australian government to provide assistance,” he said. -

Sapa

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