Australia Contributes $30 Million to World Food Programme Emergency Appeal

The Australian Government will provide $30 million in emergency assistance to countries affected by steep rises in the prices of essential food supplies. The $30 million contribution, announced by Australia’s Foreign Minister Stephen Smith, is in response to the emergency appeal of the World Food Programme.

The World Food Programme recently appealed for extra funding to address critical gaps in its food aid operations as a result of rising food and fuel prices.

Australia is a strong supporter of the World Food Programme, having provided over $1 billion for its operations since 1963. The Australian Government is pleased to be able to respond to the appeal.

The Australian Government will also lift Australia’s engagement in international efforts to address the root causes of food insecurity in developing countries, through increased development assistance, constructive participation in multilateral processes and continued advocacy for international trade policy reform.

In line with the establishment of a Task Force on the Global Food Crisis by United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, the Australian Government has tasked relevant agencies to work together in developing a comprehensive action plan for long-term food security measures, drawing on Australia’s expertise in agriculture, including semi-arid agriculture and adaptation.

There is a need to enhance Australia’s development assistance programs in agricultural productivity and market development.

As well, the Australian Government strongly supports the call by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon to advance the Doha Round. Dismantling of barriers to trade in agricultural products is part of the required long term policy response.

This funding will be met from within the Australian Government's overall aid budget.

Further information:
Jenny Dee, Counsellor (Public Affairs) tel. (021) 2550 5290 mob. 0811 187 3175