Australia provides $4 million to assist vulnerable groups in Syria and in neighbouring countries

Syrian refugees at a collective shelter in the city of Arsal in the Bekaa Valley. Australia is contributing a further $2 million in Australian humanitarian assistance for Syrians affected by the ongoing conflict to the UNHCR. Photo: UNHCR / S. Malkawi

Foreign Minister Bob Carr today announced a further $4 million in Australian humanitarian assistance for Syrians affected by the ongoing conflict. This brings Australia’s total humanitarian contribution to $24.5 million since June 2011.

It is estimated that about 18,000 people have been killed and 1.5 million people have been displaced as a result of the violence in Syria. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 2.5 million people urgently require assistance.

‘Many women and children are suffering because they lack access to medical care and face shortages in food and basic items such as blankets and clothing. Australia is supporting Syrians in their time of need with food and medical assistance and helping those who have fled the country to seek refuge,’ Senator Carr said.

OCHA reports that worsening conditions and deepening violence in Syria are making it increasingly difficult for displaced civilians to find refuge. The UN Secretary-General has highlighted the dire health situation with fewer than 56 per cent of primary health facilities and 50 per cent of hospitals fully functioning.

On 7 September, the UN revised the Syrian Humanitarian Assistance Response Plan. The updated funding requirements now amount to US$347 million.

Australia is providing $2 million to assist humanitarian agencies working inside Syria to provide medical supplies and emergency food assistance to people affected by the escalating violence.

$2 million will also be provided through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to assist Syrians seeking refuge in neighbouring countries (Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon and Iraq) to access shelter, food and medical services. The Syrian refugee population is now estimated at around 280,000, with around 1,000 new arrivals each day.

Last Reviewed: 28 September, 2012