Wahroonga, New South Wales--The Adventist Development and Relief Agency
(ADRA) office in Australia has been awarded two federal grants totaling more than $98,000 AUD (more than $74,000 USD), made through the National Emergency Volunteer Support Fund (NEVSF).

Both grants, administered by the Australian government, will further develop and support the Disaster Recovery Volunteers component of ADRA Australia's National Program. Funds will provide for improved volunteer recruitment and training, equipment, operational resources, and database development.

Gary Christian, director of the National Program, commented, "This is a significant achievement for ADRA and the growth of our Disaster Recovery Volunteers Program. This not only allows us to grow and improve the quality of our program but also illustrates the confidence that NEVSF has in the organization and the credibility of ADRA's work in Australia."

"This funding will make possible significant improvements to our program, that will help ADRA be more efficient, responsive and enhance capacity, when an emergency happens," said Chris Olafson, disaster response coordinator for ADRA Australia.

Currently, the ADRA Disaster Recovery Volunteers Program has resourced over 2,000 volunteers throughout Australia. The program provides emergency accommodation services to evacuees and emergency management personnel.

ADRA Australia is one of Australia's largest and most active humanitarian agencies engaging in sustainable development projects and disaster relief for people in Australia, the South Pacific, Asia, and Africa. ADRA Australia has an active presence across every state and territory of Australia, allowing a quick response in times of need.

ADRA is present in 125 countries, providing community development and emergency management without regard to political or religious association, age, gender or ethnicity.

Additional information about ADRA can be found at www.adra.org.