Foreign Minister Bob Carr will visit the Solomon Islands this weekend to hold talks about recovery from the tsunami.
At least nine people were killed when six villages were inundated after a magnitude 8 earthquake on Wednesday was followed by a one-metre high tsunami wave.
Senator Carr said it had been a devastating experience for the people of low-lying communities in Temotu province. "Many more are reported missing and our thoughts are with their friends and families as they search for their loved ones in the inundated areas," he said.
The Solomons Islands government has requested assistance from the federal government in delivering emergency aid.
"I'm proud we've been able to meet this request by supporting urgent supplies of medicines, food and logistical support," Senator Carr said.
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Australia's initial aid contribution includes $50,000 to the Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office for aircraft fuel and logistical support, $250,000 to the Solomon Islands Red Cross and aerial reconnaissance by a Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Hercules.
The aid effort has been hampered by the flooding of a key airport in the affected region. A Solomon Islands patrol boat left Honiara on Thursday, with Australian assistance, carrying medical supplies, tarpaulins, jerry cans, water and rice for affected communities.
The Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office estimates that 3,500 people have been affected by the earthquake and tsunami.
