Media Release
22 June 2020
As part of Australia’s commitment to working with Indonesia and international health partners to respond to the unprecedented challenges posed by COVID-19, Australia will provide AUD4.9 million (IDR48 billion) to UNICEF in support of Indonesia’s response and recovery efforts.
UNICEF is a key partner for both Australia and Indonesia. With this new funding, UNICEF and Indonesia will work together to maintain essential health services in communities, strengthen the health system, improve basic water, sanitation and hygiene practices, supply critical goods and make sure that women, children and vulnerable communities have access to nutrition interventions.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is the most significant development challenge currently facing our region, and the world,” Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Gary Quinlan, said.
“As a close friend and long-term partner to Indonesia whose futures are inseparable, we have a shared interest in combatting COVID-19 and its impacts and Australia is pleased to partner with UNICEF to support immediate health and humanitarian needs”.
UNICEF has been working closely with Indonesia to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on communities. UNICEF has delivered life-saving medical supplies and supported the continuation of health and nutrition services, provided essential water and sanitation activities and kept children connected to education.
Australia has also changed the orientation of its development program in Indonesia to respond directly to COVID-19. This includes an additional AUD 21 million in immediate support to Indonesia’s health, humanitarian and economic response.
“With millions of Indonesian children and families at risk of lifelong consequences from COVID-19, the contribution from Australia comes at a pivotal and opportune moment,” said UNICEF Representative Debora Comini. “It will help UNICEF support government health services, expand community outreach programs and public awareness campaigns in response to the pandemic.”
Australia is committed to working in partnership with Indonesia and UNICEF to respond to the crisis. This collaboration with UNICEF is designed to protect Indonesia’s children from the worst impacts of this global pandemic.
Media contacts
UNICEF Communications Team: Kinanti Pinta Karana [email protected] +62 8158805842
Australian Embassy in Jakarta Public Affairs Team: [email protected]