The Syria conflict crisis remains one of the largest humanitarian and security crises facing the world today. In 2025, the United Nations estimates that 16.7 million people, including 7.5 million children require humanitarian assistance. Key issues include access to shelter, water, food, education, and economic opportunities.

There are also around 6.2 million Syrian refugees primarily hosted in neighbouring countries. The United Nations is anticipating an increase in volunteer returns in 2025 following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime. However, concerns about safety, livelihoods, and the lack of public services remain obstacles for many refugees considering the decision to return.

Since the crisis in Syria started in 2011, Australia has provided over half a billion dollars in humanitarian support. Australia most recently committed $30 million to the crisis response on 17 March 2025 at a pledging conference in Brussels.

Our humanitarian support is providing immediate lifesaving assistance and protection to vulnerable and crisis-affected people in Syria, as well as Syrian refugees and their host communities in Lebanon and Jordan.

For more information on Australia’s humanitarian assistance to the region, see Hamas-Israel conflict and Middle East Regional escalation.