Australia will bolster foreign aid to war-ravaged Syria, with the federal government providing $10 million in support to the Middle Eastern nation.
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Foreign Minister Penny Wong says Australia will make the donation pledge at the upcoming EU-hosted Brussels Conference, which is focused on providing support to Syria.
"This additional $10 million will help address critical needs for those affected by the crisis in Syria, including healthcare, food and clean water, and services for children," Senator Wong said on Monday.
"Our response is part of broader efforts to support security and stability in the region."
The aid boost has brought the total amount of federal relief given to Syria to $570 million.
The donation will go towards financial support to UN agencies on the ground providing aid.
Civil war has ravaged Syria since 2011, prompted by uprisings against the country's president Bashar al-Assad.
It's estimated more than 13 million Syrians have been displaced by the conflict.
Humanitarian-relief efforts have been hampered following two earthquakes that hit the region in early 2023, which killed 60,000 people.
International Development Minister Pat Conroy said Australia was able to provide support alongside international efforts.
"Australia is providing critical humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by ongoing conflicts in Syria, including those displaced as refugees," he said.
"Our strong partnerships with global organisations like these United Nations agencies are critical to delivering life-saving assistance to the people affected by ongoing conflicts."
Australian Associated Press
