Aust sending more help to Fiji

Australia will send its biggest ship to assist Fiji in the wake of Cyclone Winston, as the death toll climbs to 42.

Defence Minister Marise Payne says HMAS Canberra is expected to arrive on or around March 1.

Four Globemasters have already arrived in Fiji carrying 19 tonnes of supplies along with aircraft and personnel.

Australia has also sent a six-person medical assistance team, 32 defence personnel and staff from the immigration and trade departments to help Australians get home.