July saw AAI undertake our community consultation and building design phase for the reconstruction of three healthcare facilities in the Klaten District of the Central Java Province . The Clinic Upgrade Project is anticipated to continue for the remainder of 2007 at a total cost of AUD $250,000. During this phase AAI has conducted rigorous planning with government departments, the District Health Office, and importantly, the local community.
Using a community engagement model, AAI have performed district assessments, held community information sessions, and together with leaders of local groups and residents developed a collective action plan.
One year after the devastating Java Earthquake, many healthcare facilities still remain destroyed or structurally damaged to the extent that they are too dangerous to use. The Government and community have been unable to raise the necessary funds to reconstruct the buildings and are grateful for the contribution of the Australian-Indonesian Partnership for funding and supporting the project.
Along with reconstruction activities, AAI will assist the community in developing one of their key identified needs, disaster preparedness. Training workshops in community disaster preparedness will be held, while the construction of the clinics with local labour, using earthquake resistant techniques previously not used, will provide better knowledge and experience. The local community suffered the brunt of the earthquake, with 70% of homes severely damaged in some areas. These new skills can then be transferred to the construction of all new buildings.
New healthcare facilities will include upgraded water and sanitation facilities, furniture, basic equipment, and infectious waste incinerators. The assistance also includes, building maintenance training for healthcare facility staff and disaster preparedness training focusing on the healthcare facility. Healthcare staff will be trained as disaster response leaders.