Non-government organisations

AusAID works with non-government organisations (NGOs) to maximise the impact and reach of Australian aid.

The Australian Government recognises the valuable role of NGOs and in 2009–10 provided funding to and through NGOs to deliver over 11 per cent of the aid program. Australian NGOs delivered more than half of this.

Australian NGOs bring particular strengths to Australia's aid program. They mobilise public support and voluntary contributions for aid; they often have strong links with community groups and civil society organisations in developing countries; and they often work in areas where government-to-government aid is not possible.

Many also have expertise in meeting people's basic needs, particularly in emergency situations where quick and flexible responses are essential.

Australian NGOs who receive grants under AusAID's NGO Cooperation Program undergo a rigorous accreditation process. This increases the Government’s confidence that funds are channelled through NGOs that have strong community support and that those Australian NGOs have sufficient capacity to deliver effective aid and development programs overseas.

In 2011–12, the Australian government will increase funding to Australian NGOs to deliver programs that reach the poorest and most vulnerable, that strengthen civil society and that engage with the Australian people and their own constituencies about the effectiveness of the aid program.

Funding to and through local and international NGOs is available through bilateral and regional programs, and will focus on contributing to country and regional strategy objectives.

18 November, 2011