Support and Aid for Palestinians
Cook AP
Author
The Albanese Government has committed $94.5 million in humanitarian assistance to support Palestinians and others affected by conflict in Gaza, Lebanon and the broader Middle East region since October 2023, delivering on Australia's commitment to address urgent humanitarian needs around the world.
Targeted Support Through Trusted Partners
The government's humanitarian package addresses critical needs through established international organisations with on-ground capabilities:
$13 million through the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement providing emergency medical care, food and water
$13 million via UN agencies including UNICEF and UNFPA delivering essential services focused on women and children
$10 million to the World Food Programme supplying life-saving food assistance to civilians in Gaza
$6 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for urgent lifesaving assistance
$11.5 million supporting refugee programmes in Lebanon and Jordan amid increasing regional instability
The humanitarian response acknowledges significant challenges in aid delivery, including security concerns, damaged infrastructure, and the mass displacement of civilians.
Historic Diplomatic Shift at the United Nations
In a significant policy development, Australia backed a United Nations resolution in November 2024 recognising the "permanent sovereignty of the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem" – the first time an Australian government has supported this resolution in its 20-year history.
Australia joined 158 other countries in voting for the resolution, marking a major departure from previous positions. Seven countries, including the US, Israel and Canada, voted against.
A spokesperson for Minister Wong explained the vote reflected international concern about Israel's "ongoing settlement activity, land dispossession, demolitions and settler violence against Palestinians."
"We have been clear that such acts undermine stability and prospects for a two-state solution," the spokesperson said.
The government maintains that a negotiated two-state solution remains the only path to lasting peace between Israel and Palestine, with Australia's humanitarian and diplomatic efforts supporting this ultimate goal.
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/nov/14/australia-backs-un-resolution-recognising-permanent-sovereignty-of-palestinians-in-major-departure
[2] https://www.dfat.gov.au/crisis-hub/hamas-israel-conflict-and-middle-east-region