CANBERRA, January 29 – The Australian Government today pledged a further $50 million in humanitarian assistance for the people of Afghanistan, bringing its total commitment since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in August 2021 to $310 million.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong and International Development Minister Anne Aly issued a joint statement underscoring the severity of the crisis, which they described as “one of the world’s worst protracted humanitarian crises.”
The announcement comes amidst a complex and strained period in Australia-Afghanistan relations. Following the Taliban’s seizure of power, Australia, like many Western nations, does not recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan’s legitimate government. Official diplomatic ties have been severed, and engagement is limited to humanitarian and basic consular matters. This latest aid package reinforces Australia’s policy of providing direct support to the Afghan people while explicitly bypassing the Taliban regime.
“The situation in Afghanistan is dire,” said Foreign Minister Penny Wong. “The Australian Government remains firmly committed to supporting the people of Afghanistan, with a strong focus on women and girls.”
The ministers pointed to the Taliban’s failure to meet basic needs and its severe restrictions on women and girls as central drivers of the disaster. These restrictions, which limit access to employment, healthcare, education, and public life, mean women and girls are bearing the brunt of the suffering.
Almost 22 million people—over half the country’s population—are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
“Australia’s humanitarian support will help save lives, alleviate suffering, and meet the basic needs of communities affected by the ongoing Afghanistan crisis,” Senator Wong said.
The new funding will be channeled exclusively through established United Nations agencies, including the World Food Programme and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs’ Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund. This mechanism is designed to ensure aid reaches those in need without bolstering the Taliban authorities.
“The Taliban’s oppression of women and girls mean they are disproportionately impacted,” the ministers’ statement read. “Australia’s humanitarian assistance is focused on supporting women and girls, prioritising food security, health services, and protecting dignity, safety and rights.”
International Development Minister Anne Aly emphasised the commitment to responsible delivery. “This funding will help address urgent humanitarian needs and support vulnerable people across Afghanistan,” Dr. Aly said.
“Through this support, we’re continuing our work with trusted partners to ensure assistance is delivered safely, transparently and to those who need it most.”
The aid will target critical areas including food security and health services, aiming to provide a lifeline to millions of Afghans as the country grapples with economic collapse, drought, and the consequences of decades of conflict.
