The Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) is urging Victorians to contribute to the fund-raising efforts for the victims of the massive earthquake that has struck Nepal and surrounding areas.

“It was heartening that the Australian Government had acted quickly and pledged to send $5 million in humanitarian aid to the people affected by the 7.9 earthquake that had its epicentre north-­west of Kathmandu,” ECCV chairperson, Mr Eddie Micallef, said.

The Victorian Government had also pledged $500,000 to the Nepal Region Earthquake Appeal established by the Red Cross.

“The ECCV, as the peak non-government organisation representing ethnic and multicultural communities in Victoria, has more than 200 member organisations – some of which are from the Nepalese, Bhutanese and surrounding communities,” Mr Micallef added.

“Our thoughts are with individuals and their families who have been directly affected by this natural disaster, and we ask that all members of the Victorian community give generously to help these people in such a desperate time of need.

“We urge the international community to do all it can to provide support and aid to rebuild the towns and cities in Nepal and surrounding regions affected by the earthquake,” he stressed.

Mr Micallef said it was tragic that reports were coming into Australia about people in Kathmandu and other areas having to live on the streets because they are terrified of aftershocks and are scared of returning to their homes.

“However, as the extent of the tragedy is continually unfolding and being made clearer, we are calling on the Australian Government to consider increasing its contribution by putting more aid in place.

“Media reports have indicated that members of the Victorian Nepalese and other communities are starting to raise funds so that they can directly contribute to the relief effort. We are urging all members of the Victorian community to give as much support as they can to help victims of this massive disaster.”

*For further information contact ECCV chairman Eddie Micallef on 0413 127 422 and ECCV Media Advisor John Watts on 0400 195 480 or jwatts@eccv.org.au