What is Caritas
We are Compassion in Action
Photo Credit : Richard Wainwright/Caritas Australia
As the Catholic Church's international aid and development agency, Caritas Australia works hand in hand with the most marginalised communities in Australia and overseas, to confront the challenges of poverty.
Through locally-led programs, we work with all people, with shared hope and compassion, towards a world where all can thrive and reach their full potential. Through partnerships with local organisations and Church networks, and as a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, we are able to reach where the need is greatest and work together for a just future.
Working together for justice and dignity. Building together a thriving future for all.
Our History
We have been committed to tackling poverty and inequality in Australia and overseas since 1964.
When a crisis hits, we work hand-in-hand with local communities and churches to bring aid and relief to people whose lives have been devastated by natural disaster or conflict.
Today we serve in 20 countries, working through 61 partnerships to bring hope, support and compassion to the world’s most vulnerable people.
As part of our mandate, we also seek to engage all Australians, especially the Catholic community, to advocate and act for equality and justice for all.
Photo Credit : Richard Wainwright/Caritas Australia
The way we work
By partnering with local communities we support them to build better lives for themselves - improving access to sustainable livelihoods, clean water, sanitation and education.
We have learnt from our work over the years that for those living in poverty, locally-led development programs can create lasting change in communities. That’s why we work with communities at the grassroots to eliminate poverty, by focusing on local strengths to promote positive change.
Our Principles
Our Approach
What causes poverty?
What we do
Responding
to emergencies such as the Beirut explosions, or typhoons and flooding in South East Asia
Implementing
Disaster Risk Reduction strategies, particularly in the Pacific Islands, where local communities are experiencing rising sea levels due to climate change.
Helping
Rural communities with sustainable agricultural practices, such as the Farmer Field School in Nepal
Building
water catchments, so communities have access to fresh, clean water and are able to grow crops.
Providing
access to education and workshops, so vulnerable people can learn new skills.
Training
Rural midwives in quality antenatal, delivery and postnatal care for women.
Alleviating
Poverty in Indigenous Australia through projects such as Djilpin Arts, which generates an income and provides sustainable development opportunities for women and young people in rural communities.
Advocating
For fair policies in Australia where these policies directly impact our partner communities, including on climate change, restoring the overseas aid budget and justice for First Australians.
