The Make Poverty History (MPH) coalition has welcomed the Coalition’s commitment, if they win the election, to have a Minister for International Development. In the lead-up to this year’s federal election, Make Poverty History is urging the ALP to make a similar commitment.

 “Creating a ministerial position for international development will allow Australia to take a whole of government approach to the way we engage in these important global issues. It will bring increased focus and clarity to Australia’s development work,” Make Poverty History Co-chair Andrew Hewett said.

“While Labor’s decision to make AusAID an executive agency is a step in the right direction, it is not enough. Make Poverty History would like to see the Labor Party take the further step and create a stand alone Ministerial position,” Mr Hewett said.

“Australia will show greater commitment to the fight against poverty by having a new Minister for International Development and the Minister will be able to help  improve the design and focus of Australia’s overseas aid”, added Tim Costello, Make Poverty History Co-Chair.

“It is vital that Australia’s aid reaches those who need it most. Make Poverty History believes this is best done by bringing the aid budget into alignment with the Millennium Development Goals”, Mr Costello said.

 “Make Poverty History has welcomed the commitment of both major parties to increase aid to 0.5% of gross national income (GNI). However, disappointingly in today’s debate both Stephen Smith and Julie Bishop missed an opportunity to commit to lifting Australia’s foreign aid spending to 0.7% of GNI,” Mr Hewett said.

“Australia remains just one of seven rich developed nations that hasn’t as yet committed to increase aid to 0.7% of national income,” Mr Costello said.

The Make Poverty History campaign is a coalition of more than 60 aid, community and church groups, calling on all sides of politics to commit to:

• Lifting Australia’s aid spending to 0.7 per cent of gross national income (GNI);
• Doing our fair share to halve global poverty by 2015 by achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs);
• Increasing Australia’s assistance to poorer countries to help them adapt to climate change and develop along a low-carbon path.

For media inquiries contact: Ariani Soejoeti (+61448684033) / ariani@makepovertyhistory.com.au