The Albanese Government will provide a further $4.45 million to respond to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
The funds will be used to provide immediate life-saving protection and assistance, including food, water and emergency medical supplies, delivered through the International Committee of the Red Cross.
The additional support was announced overnight by Foreign Minister Penny Wong at the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Ministerial-level Pledging Event to Support the Humanitarian Response in Sudan and the Region.
It brings Australia’s contribution to Sudan and related support in neighbouring countries to $10.45 million.
Australia has already committed $1 million to the International Committee of the Red Cross and $5 million to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to deliver humanitarian assistance in the region helping those fleeing the crisis in Sudan.
Australia is deeply concerned for the communities impacted by the conflict, with over two million people displaced inside Sudan and across its borders, and around half the population in need of humanitarian aid and protection.
This humanitarian assistance will help to ease the immediate suffering, but a negotiated political solution is the only path forward for the people of Sudan.
The Australian Government urges all parties to the conflict to ensure humanitarian agencies are given safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to deliver life-saving assistance to the people of Sudan.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong said:
“Australia is deeply distressed about the loss of life and destruction that is happening as result of the escalating conflict across Sudan. It is putting unprecedented strain on a region already dealing with a historic drought.”
“These funds will provide immediate relief to the most vulnerable people facing violence and food insecurity.”
“Australia will continue to work with our international partners to deliver essential humanitarian aid in Sudan and throughout the region.”
Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP said:
“Two months into this crisis in Sudan, humanitarian need is rapidly escalating.”
“Australia’s support to the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees will provide life-saving assistance and protection in Sudan and its region.”
Assistant Minister Foreign Affairs, the Hon Tim Watts MP said:
“Over two million people have fled since the beginning of the conflict and are now displaced inside Sudan and in neighbouring countries.”
“Additional funding from Australia will deliver vital support to vulnerable people facing conflict and food insecurity.”