International health programs

Australia’s international health programs focus on working with effective multilateral organisations to address critical and emerging health issues in the Asia–Pacific. In 2005–06, Australia will provide $36 million to international health programs including those managed by WHO. Australian funding is targeted at regional health needs including maternal and child mortality, HIV/AIDS, and infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria. The funding will include $20 million towards the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, as part of a three-year, $50 million Australian contribution to the fund, and $4 million to UNAIDS, including $1 million to the Asia–Pacific Leadership Forum.

The United Nations Population Fund and International Planned Parenthood Federation are also important partners in the implementation of the International Conference on Population and Development Program of Action, the basis for most partner country policies on reproductive health and population issues.

Australia’s contributions to international health programs will be complemented by regional and bilateral health initiatives aimed at fighting HIV/AIDS and other communicable diseases such as Avian Influenza. Australia’s efforts in HIV/AIDS are overseen by a Special Representative on HIV/AIDS, who works closely with key partners to develop strong and practical approaches to HIV/AIDS in the Asia–Pacific region.

---