MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Billson
Australia's aid to the Asia Pacific faces significant challenges very different to other parts of the world, the Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Bruce Billson, said today at the launching of analytical reports prepared for an aid White Paper.
'Escalating HIV/AIDS epidemics in particular have unique features that are diverse and require varied responses,' Mr Billson said.
'These reports will contribute to the forthcoming White Paper and cover development prospects and challenges for Australia and key regional partners, including suggestions for the future direction of Australia's aid program.
'The serious human and economic implications of the devastating disease are examined in the HIV/AIDS report and our assistance to PNG, the Pacific, Indonesia and Asia are discussed in separate reports,' Mr Billson said.
'Some of the research also strongly endorses Australia's emphasis on the importance of economic growth and good governance to sustainable development.
'Overseas development assistance in our neighbourhood will always face challenges as growth is not uniform and poverty still a major issue. However, Australia is committed to ongoing improvement in the way we work with our neighbours to help them realise their economic and social potential,' Mr Billson said.
'The White Paper will provide a strategic blueprint for the future direction of the Australian aid program over the next 10 - 15 years and take into account emerging global trends and best international practice in aid effectiveness.
It will be especially important given Prime Minister John Howard's recent announcement that the Australian Government aims to increase our aid budget to $4 billion by 2010, with a continued focus on strengthening governance, encouraging economic growth, tackling corruption and promoting institutional reform.
'The analytical reports have been prepared in consultation with partner governments, other donors, external experts and several Australian Government departments. Input from members of the public and interested stakeholders gathered at public meetings in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney has also shaped preparation of the White Paper,' Mr Billson said.
Information regarding the White Paper process, including the analytical reports, is available at www.ausaid.gov.au and public comment is invited via email to AusAID on whitepaper@ausaid.gov.au.
Media inquiries:
Shane Fairlie (Mr Billson's office) 0408 680 442
AusAID (Public Affairs) 0417 680 590