Remarks: Nutrition for Growth Summit (N4G) Tokyo

Let me begin by thanking Japan for hosting such an important summit today. I wish I could be there in person.

This is a time of immense challenge – particularly for our Pacific neighbours.

COVID-19 has caused significant disruptions to us all.

The health and economic consequences have been devastating. And in our region, too many families have gone without food.

Poor nutrition can permanently hinder our children’s physical and mental development.

Access to nutritious food, clean water, sanitation and hygiene, sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and empowering women and girls, are all important to preventing malnutrition.

In PNG, Australia is working with the World Bank to link social protection to better nutrition outcomes for children.

In Indonesia, we are supporting micronutrient supplements for young women.

Globally, we are funding the World Food Program to deliver food assistance in emergencies and improve nutrition.

Today, I am pleased to commit to continuing to report annually on our nutrition specific and sensitive development assistance expenditure (currently over $100 million a year).

We will continue to provide substantial economic support to our neighbours – helping them to protect incomes so their people can afford nutritious food.

Our investments will also enhance local food production, provide emergency food assistance and help empower women and girls. Australia is committed to working with all our partners, so that children who are born today will not go hungry and have the chance to reach their full potential.