Sydney's generosity to tsunami ravaged territories has been applauded, but Anglicans have to extend their "helping hand' further says the head of the India Gospel League.

The Rev Samuel Stephens, the man tasked to oversee the Archbishop’s Overseas Relief and Aid Fund’s reconstruction efforts in Sri Lanka and India, says aid workers like himself have been overwhelmed by Australia's generosity toward the people of Asia.

Donations to date total more than half a million dollars.

But sympathetic reactions have to be translated into long-term responses.

Close to a hundred people heard Mr Stephens give a first-hand account of the work that is being done to rebuild thousands of lives shattered by the tsunami.

Images of disaster and relief filled the front of St Andrews Cathedral as he shared how funds donated have already been put to good use, providing temporary accommodation for the homeless, as well as trauma and legal counselling for the bereaved.

Mr Stephens says organisations like ORAF are now focussing on long-term relief strategies for the victims of the Boxing Day tsunami that will require equally long-term commitments from developing nations.

The need for basics like medical aid, milk, baby food and fuel is expected to continue for some time.

Contributions to Overseas Relief and Aid Fund can be made through the Archbishop's Appeals Unit.