Caritas Australia’s partners on the ground in Indonesia are responding to the immediate needs of over 15,000 people displaced by twin earthquakes which have rocked the island of Sulawesi.

Over 73 people have been killed and more than 826 injured after West Sulawesi was hit by a magnitude 5.9 earthquake on Thursday January 14, followed by a magnitude 6.2 earthquake on Friday, January 15.

The two earthquakes caused significant destruction, with over 300 houses and several public facilities damaged, including two hospitals. Road access and communications have been cut off in Mamuju district.

The challenges of responding to the earthquake have been magnified by COVID-19, with Indonesia’s   hospital system already under strain. On Friday when the second earthquake hit, Indonesia reported over 12,000 new infections.

Families across the region are in urgent need of food, clean water, clothing, hygiene kits, blankets and mats, medical attention, personal protective equipment (PPE) and shelter. 

Caritas Australia is supporting church and NGO partners on the ground with initial funds to support assessments and to ensure that communities have shelter, food and clean water.  

Caritas Australia is accepting donations through its Asia Emergency Appeal to provide support for emergencies like the earthquake in West Sulawesi. Visit caritas.org.au or call 1800 024 413 toll free to provide much needed support to some of our closest neighbours.  

Caritas Australia is a member of one of the world’s largest humanitarian networks, with 162 agencies operating in 200 countries and territories. 

Media contact: Jessica Stone on 0490 684 867 / jessica.stone@caritas.org.au or caritasmedia@caritas.org.au.