Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr announced on Monday that Australia would provide 15 million Australian dollars (15.5 million U.S. dollars) to rehabilitate 40 kilometers of main road in Kiribati, which has been undermined by rising sea levels and coastal erosion.

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said in a statement that Carr, speaking from Kiribati, said the works were essential if the nation was to survive the impact of climate change.

"Kiribati is at the front line of climate change," Carr said.

The highest point of the island country is now just three meters above sea level. "Unless action is taken, Kiribati will be uninhabitable by 2030 as a result of coastal erosion, sea level rise and saltwater intrusion into drinking water," Carr said.

"This project will provide more than 40 percent of the population with better access to health clinics, schools and markets. Coastal roads will be rehabilitated to withstand rising sea levels and storm surges caused by climate change."

Australia will also support the Kiribati Adaptation Program to replace 11 kilometers of damaged water mains and increase access to safe drinking water.

Australia's funding would be delivered over three years starting this year in partnership with the World Bank and Asian Development Bank. Endi