Australia has committed to injecting AUD $492 million into development projects across the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to address pressing needs and foster transformative growth. The pledge, directed towards the Asian Development Fund’s (ADF14) 2025-28 pledging round, underscores Australia’s commitment to supporting lower-income developing countries in their efforts to alleviate poverty and enhance quality of life.
Administered by the Asian Development Bank, the ADF provides grants for initiatives aimed at poverty reduction and improving living standards. This substantial contribution from Australia is anticipated to aid countries in the region in various ways, including the construction of climate-resilient infrastructure such as hospitals and education facilities. Additionally, the funding will support the operation of these facilities, bolstering health and education systems.
Australia’s collaboration with representatives from Pacific Island nations such as the Cook Islands and Kiribati ensures a significant portion of the pledged funds, exceeding AUD $500 million, will be allocated to the Pacific region, surpassing the previous replenishment (ADF13).
The pledge aligns with Australia’s International Development Policy, focusing on support for climate action and gender equality. Notably, efforts were made to establish a mechanism to channel funds effectively to populations in Afghanistan, Myanmar, and displaced Rohingya communities in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on empowering women and girls.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong, emphasised that Australia’s contributions to the ADF would address the region’s most pressing needs and support initiatives aligned with Pacific priorities, particularly concerning climate change.
Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Asian Development Bank to implement crucial reforms that enhance the effectiveness of development projects. Conroy emphasized the importance of the ADB’s role in meeting the region’s sustainable development needs and praised its alignment with Australia’s International Development Policy.
The funding commitment signifies Australia’s commitment to fostering sustainable development across the Indo-Pacific region and underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing regional challenges and fostering inclusive growth.
