Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to speak about the situation in Sri Lanka and the Albanese Labor government's response. Sri Lanka, the country of my birth, is experiencing an unprecedented economic crisis that has resulted in a shortage of medicine, petrol and, most importantly, food. Last month I met with the acting Sri Lankan high commissioner, Chamari Rodrigo, to receive an update on the health and wellbeing of the Sri Lankan people. I also discussed Australia's $50 million in official development aid to assist Sri Lanka, which Australia has increased by $25 million since that meeting. This $75 million in support will help relieve urgent food and healthcare needs while supporting long-term solutions such as investments in social protection, nutrition and women's health. Australia is home to a large diaspora of Sri Lankan origin, many of whom call my seat of Holt their home. I commend the efforts of several Australian Sri Lankan organisations for their work in assisting Sri Lanka during these times of need, and I extend my thoughts and prayers to the Sri Lankan people. I thank the House.