Australia pledges $10 million in humanitarian aid to Turkey and Syria earthquake victims
The Australian government will provide $10 million in humanitarian aid to help with the devastation caused by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake and subsequent aftershocks in Turkey and neighbouring Syria.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the initial funding will go to Red Cross and Red Crescent partners to help people in the region.
"Australia's assistance will target those in greatest need," Albanese said.
READ MORE: Survivors 'screaming' under rubble as Turkey earthquake kills thousands
A man searches for people in the rubble of a destroyed building in Gaziantep, Turkey on Monday. AP
"For Australians who have family in the region, this will be a really difficult time."
The death toll from the powerful earthquakes on Monday has surpassed 3400, with thousands more injured.
Rescuers are now racing against time in extreme weather conditions after the 7.8 magnitude quake struck south-eastern Turkey and northern Syria, trapping residents under mounds of rubble.
An official with Turkey's disaster management authority said more than 7800 people had been rescued across 10 provinces.
READ MORE: What to know about the big quake that hit Turkey and Syria
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomes New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins to Parliament House on Tuesday in Canberra. Martin Ollman/Getty Images
The official, Orhan Tatar, said 5606 buildings had collapsed.
Visiting New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins announced a $1.5 million contribution to the international aid effort.
He said more details will be provided in the coming days.
The new prime minister, who took office late last month, offered his condolences on behalf of his country.
"We know a little bit about earthquakes in New Zealand and the significant effect that can have on people," Hipkins said.
"Our hearts are with them."
Hipkins is in Canberra to shore up trans-Tasman ties in his first official international trip as New Zealand's leader.
Earlier on Tuesday, Albanese voiced his support for the new leader.
"(He) will do a great job as the prime minister of New Zealand," he said.
His predecessor Jacinda Ardern maintained a close relationship with Australia in her time as the country's leader.
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