Chapter Five: Emergency, humanitarian and refugee Aid
| Emergency aid Humanitarian aid International Refugee Fund |
$62.3 million
$55.0 million $15.0 million |
Australia's emergency, humanitarian and refugee programs lessen the adverse impacts of conflict and natural disasters on vulnerable populations. They support the promotion of peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2003-04, a stronger focus on the analysis of conflict and disaster vulnerability in the region will identify new peace building and disaster preparedness strategies and activities to better prepare communities at risk.
Increased funding in 2003-04 for humanitarian, emergency and refugee programs will enhance the aid program's ability to respond quickly, flexibly and effectively to humanitarian needs resulting from disasters and conflict. Whilst humanitarian crises within Australia's immediate region will be a priority for assistance, other significant demands are likely to include further humanitarian relief and reconstruction assistance to Iraq, post-conflict support for Afghanistan, and food needs following severe drought in southern Africa.
The program will continue to assist those displaced by conflict and will seek to address the causes of refugee flows. The International Refugee Fund supports refugees, host communities and reintegration of returnees. This funding is specifically targeted to ensure the engagement of key international organisations in priority Asia-Pacific countries.
Australia's disaster response mechanisms will be enhanced to ensure prompt and effective delivery of assistance to those affected by natural and other crises. For example, the Australian Government will strengthen Emergency Cooperation Agreements with selected Australian NGOs, and introduce revised Standing Operating Procedures. Cooperation agreements with the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and the International Committee of the Red Cross will identify areas of common interest, focus capacities and streamline cooperation. A deeper understanding for AusAID and partner agency staff in peace-conflict dynamics, vulnerability analysis, refugee protection issues, international humanitarian law, and the development of a humanitarian and emergency performance information framework will enhance program effectiveness. The aid program's country and regional programs will integrate conflict prevention and peace building approaches into country strategies and activities.