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PRIME MINISTER PRESS STATEMENT NO0. 479
3 April 1975
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER TO LAUNCH THE
INDO-CHINA/ VIETNAM APPEAL
I know that I speak for all Australians in expressing
my deep concern at the current-plight of refugees in
Indo-China. Today, the Disaster Emergency Committee of the Australian
Council for Overseas Aid opens the national Indo-China
Vietnam Appeal so that Australians will have an opportunity
to contribute personally to the organisations which are
helping suffering people in these areas.
As a Government we have acted promptly to assist the
plight of these homeless refugees. Already this financial
year we have given $ 2.4 million to international agencies
which are working on both sides of present lines of military
control and we have reaffirmed our commitment to contribute
generously to the future reconstruction of post-war
Indo-China. We are conscious of the depth of feeling on this
humanitarian issue among the Australian people and their
desire to help personally. I therefore warmly commend this
national appeal to the Australian people and have pleasure
in launching it with a donation from the Government of
$ 50,000. I know that individual Australians will express
their personal concern by responding quickly and generously
to this-appeal.
The Australian Council for Overseas Aid coordinates the
work of the 32 voluntary aid agencies in Australia, including
such organisation as the Australian Red Cross, Australian
Council of Churches, Australian Catholic Relief, Freedom from
Hunger Campaign, Austcare, Community Aid Abroad, and other
major organisations in this area.
The Australian people have the assurance from past work
by the. Disaster Emergency Committee that the money given will
be sent quickly and spent wisely by reputable organisations.
TOWNSVILLE, QLD.