Australian Volunteers Contribute to Fiji’s Development Efforts

3 December 2010

Australia’s acting High Commissioner, Ms Judith Robinson, says volunteering overseas is one way Australians can make a positive contribution towards the international pursuit of poverty reduction and sustainable development.

She said in Fiji’s case there were 35 Australian volunteers who were assisting communities around the country in a number of areas.

“Our volunteers are making contributions throughout the country by helping preserve and promote art and culture; improving mental health care and counseling; raising awareness about child protection and human rights; improving early child care and, helping strengthen disaster risk management.”

Ms Robinson made the comments at a special function at the Australian High Commission last night to celebrate International Volunteers Day.

Guests included Australian volunteers currently on assignment in Fiji.

Noting that Australians spend 713 million hours volunteering every year, Ms Robinson said her government recognized this valuable contribution, especially where it complemented Australia’s development assistance programs in other countries, including Fiji.

“Consistent with Australia's broader response to the global recession, Australian volunteers in Fiji support programs which generate employment and economic development; support delivery of essential services (including health and education) and, help groups most vulnerable to the impacts of global recession.

“The volunteer program which is an estimated $42 million this financial year, allows Australians to become directly involved in our development program. This is part of the Australian aid program in Fiji, which is worth $37.2 million for 2010-11,” she said.

Ms Robinson also explained that the Australian Government was in the process of developing an enhanced Australian Volunteers for International Development program, to be launched next year. The program aims to strengthen alignment between the volunteer program and Australia’s aid program priorities.
 

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