The Australian Council for International Development, the peak body for Australian humanitarian agencies, is calling on the Australian Government to provide an initial funding commitment of $20 million to support urgent humanitarian relief efforts in Lebanon and the surrounding region.  

Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed over 2,000 people, including 127 children and wounded over 10,000 people since October 8th last year.

According to UNHCR, an estimated 1.2 million people are displaced across the country.  

“The people of Lebanon are in desperate need of assistance, and it is crucial that Australia responds promptly and decisively,” said ACFID’s Humanitarian Lead Naomi Brooks. “By committing $20 million in initial aid, Australia can help provide life-saving support and access to urgently needed assistance.” 

The humanitarian situation in Lebanon remains critical, with widespread food insecurity and limited access to healthcare. ACFID’s members and local partners are on the ground and responding with life-saving humanitarian assistance, such as food, shelter, infrastructure, and health. 

 “Lebanon is already in the grip of a dire economic crisis, and with existing humanitarian need only set to continue to grow in the face of escalating conflict, the people of Lebanon urgently need relief,” said Ms. Brooks.  

ACFID’s proposed funding ask is proportionate to recent international commitments including by Canada, Japan, the European Union and the United Kingdom.  

“With approximately 250,000 Australians with ancestry back to Lebanon, many Australians are closely monitoring the situation and are eager to see their government take a leadership role in providing support,” said Ms. Brooks.  

ACFID continues to call on all parties to find a peaceful resolution, uphold international humanitarian law, and protect civilians.  

Australians wishing to donate can do so through ACFID’s consolidated appeal, which provides a list of Australian humanitarian agencies approved under ACFID’s Code of Conduct for their public appeals in Lebanon.  

ACFID Australian humanitarian agencies adhere to the highest standards set by ACFID’s Code of Conduct, which includes a responsibility to provide clear information to their donors about the emergency situation and the work they are undertaking with affected communities.  

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Lisa Tadrosse at 0401 721 064 or at [email protected]