SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

THE HON PAT CONROY MP
MINISTER FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND THE PACIFIC
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE INDUSTRY

The Australian Government will provide an additional $10 million in response to the humanitarian needs caused by the ongoing crisis in Syria.

Australia will pledge this support at the upcoming eighth Brussels Conference on supporting the future of Syria and the region, hosted by the European Union.

The devastating conflict has endured for over a decade, leaving more than 13 million Syrians forcibly displaced, including as refugees in neighbouring countries and this additional assistance will be focused on addressing their most urgent needs.

Australia’s response includes support for UN agencies and trusted partners to provide access to clean water, food assistance, childhood nutrition services, reproductive health and gender-based violence response services.

Civilians have been repeatedly targeted in clear violations of International Humanitarian Law.

Two powerful earthquakes in February last year claimed over 60,000 lives and caused major destruction to homes and infrastructure in the region, exacerbating an already dire situation.

This assistance builds on the almost $570 million the Australian Government has contributed to support those affected by the Syria crisis since 2011.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

“This additional $10 million will help address critical needs for those affected by the crisis in Syria, including healthcare, food and clean water, and services for children.”

“Our response is part of broader efforts to support security and stability in the region.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development and The Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“Australia is providing critical humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by ongoing conflict in Syria, including those displaced as refugees.

“Our strong partnerships with global organisations like these United Nations agencies are critical to delivering life-saving assistance to the people affected by ongoing conflicts.”

Media Contact:
Foreign Minister's Office: +61 2 6277 7500

Authorised by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia.