In response to ALP National Conference resolution on aid budget, Oxfam Australia Chief Executive Lyn Morgain said:
“We welcome the outcome today from the national conference of the ALP that the party re-commits to increasing Australia’s aid budget to 0.5% of GNI. This is an important step toward making a difference to the lives of millions of people affected by climate change, conflict, and growing inequality.
“Despite this announcement, Australia’s aid budget still remains considerably below the 0.7% of GNI target agreed by countries and is fundamentally needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
“We urge the Labor Government to build upon its encouraging new development policy by demonstrating a stronger dedication and outlining a clear trajectory for increased funding.
“Effectively rebuilding our aid program requires a bipartisan approach, beginning by increasing our aid investment as a percentage of our Gross National Income.
“We currently sit at 27 out of 30 OECD countries in terms of our generosity and investment in Official Development Assistance – we want to see this government improve our international standing with an ultimate target of Australia contributing 0.7% GNI to achieving these worthwhile ambitions.
"As hunger intensifies across the world and intertwines with the escalating climate crisis, the effectiveness of humanitarian systems in providing aid faces increasingly complex challenges. Urgent action and increased funding are imperative.
“We also welcome Labor’s agreement to revise corporate tax laws. We need new revenue measures such as wealth and corporate windfall profit taxes to both tackle growing inequality at home and provide a funding source for Official Development Assistance.”
For interviews, contact Lucy Brown on 0478 190 099/ lucyb@oxfam.org.au
