The Australian Government will provide a new $110 million assistance package to Ukraine. This assistance will help Ukraine defend and support itself against Russia’s illegal, immoral and unprovoked invasion.
Australia has stood with Ukraine since Russia’s brutal invasion 16 months ago. We are continuing to work with the government of Ukraine to provide assistance that addresses Ukraine’s needs and complements support provided by our partners. This package responds to Ukraine’s requests for vehicles and ammunition, and will make a tangible difference on the battlefield. It includes:
- 70 military vehicles, including: 28 M113 armoured vehicles, 14 Special Operations Vehicles, and 28 MAN 40M medium trucks and 14 trailers.
- Supply of 105mm artillery ammunition.
- $10 million to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, who manage the Ukrainian Humanitarian Fund, to help meet needs for shelter, health services, clean water and sanitation.
Ukrainian families, the elderly and children have borne a terrible cost from Russia’s invasion. Australia’s $10 million contribution to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund will support their needs.
In addition, Australia will extend duty-free access for goods imported from Ukraine for a further 12 months, to support its recovery and trade opportunities.
These commitments announced today bring Australia’s total contribution in support of Ukraine to $790 million, including $610 million in military assistance.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:
“This latest package of support demonstrates that Ukraine can count on Australia.
“We support international efforts to ensure Putin’s aggression fails and that Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity prevails.
“Australia is unwavering in our resolve to condemn and oppose Russia’s actions and to help Ukraine achieve victory.”
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said:
“Ukraine has demonstrated strength, resilience and courage in defending against Russia’s unjust invasion. Australia is proud to be one of the largest non-NATO contributors in support of Ukraine, and will continue to support Ukraine to end the war on its own terms.
“Ukraine has highlighted the utility of Australian vehicles on the battlefield.
“This package will continue to support Ukrainians on the front line.”
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said:
“We pay tribute to the extraordinary courage and resolve of the Ukrainian people, and stand with them.
“Ukrainian families, children and the elderly have borne a terrible cost from Russia’s invasion, and Australia is providing funding to support them.
“Russia cannot be allowed to infringe upon another country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”