The Government will boost ODA by an estimated $1.4 billion over four years. In 2022-23, the ODA budget will be $4.65 billion. This is an increase of $195 million from 2021-22. ODA funding to the Pacific will be at its highest level ever at an estimated $1.9 billion (up from an estimated $1.6 billion in 2021-22).

Responding to Pacific Priorities

Australia will deliver a record $1.9 billion in 2022-23. Including an additional $900 million over four years.

• To strengthen the region's climate resilience and mitigation objectives, including through the Pacific Climate Infrastructure Financing Partnership.
• To reduce fiscal distress in target countries, by building on existing budget and aviation sector support.
• To empower women and girls and people with a disability to participate more fully in social, political and economic life.
• In addition, $70.1 million to expand and improve the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme so more Pacific and Timorese workers generate remittances, develop skills and start new businesses at home. This will include support for training and assistance for families to accompany long-term workers.

Deepening engagement with Southeast Asia

Australia's development assistance will further our collective interests and tackle shared challenges in Southeast Asia with a further $470 million over four years.

• Including a $200 million Climate and Infrastructure Partnership with Indonesia, focusing on financing, disaster mitigation and renewable energy.
• Advancing our ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including the Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative.
• Establishing new Office of Southeast Asia to lead and coordinate whole-of-Government efforts.

Civil society engagement

Australian NGOs promote sustainable, locally-led development in partner countries and help build vital relationships between communities in Australia and across our region. The Government has allocated an additional $30 million over four years to fund projects that help lift our neighbours out of poverty and achieve our collective commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Supporting Australian Tourism and Travel

The Government recognises the diversity of the tourism and travel industries and will invest $48 million to attract and skill-up workers, support quality tourism products, and deliver infrastructure upgrades.

First Nations Foreign Policy

Australia's foreign policy should reflect our full identity: our modern diversity and the rich heritage of First Nations people. This means embedding the perspectives, experiences, and practices of First Nations Australians into all aspects of our foreign policy. DFAT has opened a public expression of interest process for the Ambassador for First Nations People and will consult widely on the establishment of an Office for First Nations Engagement, engaging with First Nations communities, advocates and leaders on how Australia's international engagement best supports First Nations people.