With the federal election date now called and set for May 3, the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID), the peak body for development and humanitarian NGOs, is calling on all political parties and candidates to support Australian aid.
Australia’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) composes just 0.65% of the Federal Budget, continuing to fall in real terms. The sector urges all parties to commit to policies that increase Australia’s development assistance to 1% of the Federal Budget.
“With worsening climate impacts in the Asia Pacific region, protracted global conflicts and the withdrawal of key actors from the multilateral system, now is the time for Australia to step up our commitments to the world’s most vulnerable,” said Matthew Maury, ACFID’s Interim CEO.
“We have a huge opportunity with an upcoming federal election to have our voices heard, voices calling for us to be good global neighbours who want to build peace and prosperity” continued Mr Maury.
“The Australian development and humanitarian sector continue to call on the government to reach at least 1% of the Federal Budget on ODA. It’s a moderate increase that would make a world of difference,” said Naomi Brooks, ACFID’s Public Engagement Lead.
“Especially as we witness the fallout from the USAID suspension, it is urgent that Australia invests in our shared future,” said Ms. Brooks.
Australian voters can learn more about the Australian aid sector’s campaign “Safer World for All” here.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact ACFID Media at media@acfid.asn.au or call 0401 721 064.