Australia Provides New Funding to Support Indonesia’s Electoral System

Australia has boosted its commitment to the quality of elections in Indonesia through an electoral support package announced today at the Bali Democracy Forum.

The five-year assistance package to support democratic elections in Indonesia, will bolster civil society engagement and increase participation in the electoral process.

The package will include funding for the ongoing partnership between the Australian Electoral Commission and Indonesia’s National Elections Commission (KPU), as well as a program of grants to civil society organisations.

This assistance will help local organisations encourage Indonesians to vote and be involved in election processes like monitoring and voter education.

It will also improve the management of elections by supporting the KPU to develop user-friendly elections manuals and encouraging people to register to vote in the lead up to the 2014 election.

Australia’s representative at the Bali Democracy Forum, Mr Tim Fischer, AC, Ambassador to the Holy See, said Australia has supported sub-national elections and three national elections since 1999.

“Australia has worked with Indonesia to improve public confidence in the electoral and democratic process,” Mr Fischer said.

“Well-run elections are important for strengthening democracy. Australia’s continued support in this area will help ensure all Indonesians get a chance to have their say in the world’s third largest democracy.”

The package is worth A$20 million over 5 years.

Media enquiries:
Mia Salim – AusAID Public Affairs - 08121070237