Aid campaign condemns raiding already depleted aid budget
Announcement posted by Sarah Cannata 08 May 2017
8 May 2017
MEDIA RELEASE
Aid campaign condemns raiding already depleted aid budget
On the eve of Budget 2017, Campaign for Australian Aid is condemning reported budget leaks indicating the Government’s plans to continue hacking away at the Australian aid budget.
“While the Government gives massive handouts to the wealthiest people and big corporates, it continues cutting aid to those living in the poorest parts of the world,” said Director for Campaign for Australian Aid, Tony Milne.
“If the Government wants to fund counter-terrorism, that's their choice. But don't cut funding to the world's poorest from an aid budget that has already been cut to the bone by this Government.
“As we speak, millions of people in South Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Nigeria are facing starvation, while millions more are seeking asylum from war in Syria. Yet the Government continues to raid Australia’s aid budget, which currently sits at an historic low.”
Mr Milne added: “These cuts will increase inequality and take funding away from reducing poverty and action on climate change, the very drivers of conflict and instability.”
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If you’d like to arrange an interview or photo opportunity with Mr Milne, please contact Sarah Cannata on 0407 536 133.
About Campaign for Australian Aid
The Campaign for Australian Aid is a joint initiative of the Make Poverty History and Micah Australia coalitions, for all Australians who believe we can and should do more as a nation to end extreme poverty around the world. It represents over 65 aid and development organisations, church, business and community groups.