Humanitarian Assistance in response to Afghanistan earthquake

The Australian Government will provide $1 million to support the people of Afghanistan following the deadly earthquake which struck Herat Province.

The earthquake has exacerbated the dire humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, where 29.2 million people are already in desperate need.

Australia’s assistance will be directed through the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund (AHF), led by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

The AHF provides emergency shelter, health, food and protection for vulnerable people. No Australian funding will benefit or legitimise the Taliban regime.

Australia has already committed $50 million in 2023-24 to the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

“We are deeply troubled by the loss of life and destruction in Afghanistan.

“Australia’s support will be delivered through independent agencies to provide basic needs such as shelter, food and medicine.

“Australia stands with the people of Afghanistan.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development and the Pacific, The Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“This earthquake has exacerbated the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, where almost 30 million people are already in desperate need.

“We are working closely with our humanitarian partners who have initiated relief efforts, deploying medical and trauma support to regional hospitals, as well as providing emergency shelter, supplies and food assistance to affected areas.”

Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Tim Watts (MP):

“Our thoughts are with the victims of this tragic earthquake, their families, and the rescue personnel.

“We urge the Taliban to respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of the people of Afghanistan, especially women and girls, ethnic and religious minorities.”