Australia is now spending ten times more on defence than on foreign aid, which is one of the widest gaps in the developed world according to new data modelling from the Australian National University.
At a press conference in Parliament House this morning as part of the Safer World for All campaign, Uniting Church in Australia President Rev. Charissa Suli joined key voices from politics, security and faith to urge Australia’s leaders to commit to growing aid, before the gap widens further.
“Australian Aid transforms lives—and I’ve witnessed that first-hand. After the devastating volcano and tsunami in Tonga in 2022, I travelled there and saw the incredible impact of our aid program—vital supplies, shelter, and long-term recovery support,” said Rev. Suli.
“Tongan communities still tell the story of those first days of fear and uncertainty. Through the ash and silence, the first humanitarian plane they saw carried the image of a kangaroo. It’s a moment they will never forget.”
“As a person of faith, I believe love must be shown in action—and our aid program is exactly that: a lifeline, an act of justice, and a reflection of our shared humanity”
Rev. Suli publicly released a letter signed by the heads of every major Christian denomination in Australia.
“Australia’s aid program is supported by all of Australia’s mainline churches, and we stand together here today. Our support for Australia’s aid program goes far beyond words, we wholeheartedly co-invest in it as partners,” said Rev Suli.
“We urge our nation’s leaders to affirm their commitment not just to preserve aid, but to let it grow, forging stronger partnerships and transforming more lives together.”
Independent MP Zali Steggall also spoke about aid’s role in helping Pacific nations adapt to the climate crisis.
“Aid that supports climate resilience for our Pacific neighbours isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart, strategic move for Australia. By helping communities withstand rising sea levels, extreme weather and displacement, we’re strengthening relationships, promoting regional stability and protecting lives,” she said.
“It’s not enough to invest in defence alone. True security means helping our neighbours prevent crises — by building resilience before disaster strikes.”
Aid funding has seen significant cuts in the last decade and made up only 0.68% of the Federal Budget in 2024-25. The Safer World for All campaign is calling for aid to make up 1% of the 2025-26 Budget.
Church leaders and members have conducted over 55 meetings in the past six months with MPs from all parties, organised by Micah Australia. These meetings, led by constituents who care deeply about Australia’s role in the world, have highlighted the strong and widespread support for aid within the Christian community.
Regardless of the outcome of the 2025-26 Budget, the Australian Church is committed to ongoing support for Australian Aid.
Sign the open letter: Australian Christians support Australian Aid!
UnitingWorld is a member of Micah Australia and supports the Safer World for All campaign. The campaign brings together voices from faith, development, security, and the community to advocate for a stronger, values-driven approach to Australian Aid.