Australian humanitarian assistance to South Sudan totals $43 million

Media release

31 January 2014

The Australian Government will provide $3 million in emergency assistance for communities affected by continuing unrest in South Sudan in addition to $40 million already pledged.

The United Nation's Common Humanitarian Fund will use the additional funding to assist with urgent needs including the protection of civilians and the provision of food, water, sanitation, shelter and medical assistance.

Australia is committed to aiding in the achievement of peace and development in South Sudan. With this contribution Australia has provided a total of $43 million in humanitarian and development assistance since 2012.

The ceasefire agreement between the Government of South Sudan and opposition forces represents a welcome first step toward ending hostilities but the humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains dire. More than 646,000 people have been displaced within the country and over 123,000 have fled to neighbouring countries. There are an estimated 76,500 people currently sheltering in United Nation's compounds.

Australia calls on all parties to immediately honour their commitments to halt hostilities and to begin an inclusive, peaceful political dialogue.

The latest contribution builds on Australia's existing response to the crisis, including co-sponsoring a UN Security Council decision to increase the strength of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to assist the protection of civilians, and providing two military aircraft to help move UN personnel and equipment into South Sudan. Australia also supports UNMISS through the deployment of a contingent of Australian Defence Force personnel.

The Australian Government continues to strongly advise Australians not to travel to South Sudan, including Juba, because of ongoing military conflict. Australians in South Sudan are urged to leave as soon as possible while commercial options are available.