Caritas Australia has revealed that 1,056,195 people were directly supported over 12-month period to the end of June 2024, through both long-term programs and emergency responses. This is an increase of around 250,000 participants year-on-year.
74 national and international partners were fundamental to the success of these programs, with development programs taking place across 23 countries, and emergency responses across 24. Almost a third of development program participants were children or youth, with an equal split of male and female participants.
Key milestones across the year included celebrating 60 years of Caritas Australia, as well as the 10th Women for the World campaign where Caritas India’s Babina Pinto was hosted at a gala dinner, and Project Compassion where supporters raised $9.75m.
Advocacy efforts also saw Caritas Australia taking a report on climate impacts in the Pacific to COP28, as well as participating in the launch of the Safer World for All campaign that calls on the government to increase the aid budget from 0.68% of national income to a modest 1%.
Caritas Australia Interim CEO Kirsten Sayers said, “Each year our supporters are steadfast in their support for those in need around the world. This year we are exceptionally grateful for your generosity and compassion, as we know many of you continue to face your own challenges here at home.
The ability to put those challenges aside, recognise your own blessings and share what you can with those more vulnerable than yourself is an admirable act of faith. As the Gospel of Matthew tells us, “What you do for the least among you, you do for Jesus”.
“As the year draws to a close, we continue to hold our brothers and sisters in need around the world in our hearts, extending our compassion and dedication to them into the New Year.”
