MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The 1998-99 overseas aid budget will strengthen the partnership between the Howard Government and Non Government Organisations (NGOs), and recognises that NGOs play an integral part in the delivery of the Australian aid program.
In 1998-99 approximately $105 million of Government aid funds are expected to be channelled through NGOs, including through the AusAID-NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). The program provides support for community based projects identified - and often jointly funded - by NGOs.
This year's budget increases ANCP funding by 13 per cent to $22 million. Since the Coalition's election in 1996, total ANCP funding has increased by 47 per cent.
In addition to their individual programs, NGOs play an important role in the delivery of emergency and humanitarian assistance. In 1997-98 they made a significant contribution to Australia's drought relief efforts in both Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, helping to deliver much needed assistance at the community level. I congratulate the NGOs that have been involved in both these operations.
Emergency assistance provided through the aid program will be trebled in 1998-99 to enable the Government to respond quickly to alleviate the suffering of victims of disasters. We shall continue to work closely with NGOs as a vehicle for delivering this relief, including in Indonesia where Australia will provide a substantial package of humanitarian assistance in the coming financial year.
The Australian Government is committed to building effective partnerships with the NGO community. The support provided to NGOs is an important expression of the Australian community's concern for the poor and disadvantaged peoples of developing countries. NGOs translate this concern into practical, tangible projects that focus on basic human needs at the community level.
The Howard Government is pleased to continue its support of the work of NGOs within our overseas development program.
Media contacts:
Judi Nixon (Mrs Sullivan's office) 07 5591 1011 / 0411 287 258
Michelle Hardy (AusAID) 02 6206 4968 / 0417 680 590