Mr Brumby said he was ''deeply saddened and shocked'' to hear of the tragedy and said the government shared the family's sorrow.

''I want to convey our condolences to the family of Vivien Hodgins and the Mount Clear College community at this very difficult time, to the families of other Australians who have so tragically lost their lives or been injured and the many people in these communities who have lost their lives, our thoughts and prayers are with you,'' he said.

Mr Brumby said the government had sent medical teams experienced in trauma illness and injury as well as medical supplies to Samoa.

''The Victorian Government has immediately deployed two medical teams each comprising of two doctors, three nurses and two paramedics to the Samoan tsunami disaster, as well as providing medical equipment,'' he said.

''The teams departed Melbourne this morning and will be deployed for five days. We will deploy further replacement teams on a needs basis. All the team members have disaster training or experience and specialise in trauma, intensive care and emergency.

''Our Government stands ready to provide further assistance to the communities affected by these disasters.''