Australia's renewed commitment to Afghanistan

The Australian Government today reaffirms our commitment to the security of Afghanistan and its transition to stability and self-reliance.

Working alongside our key partners, including the US, UK and European Union, the Australian Government will extend our $80 million annual commitment of bilateral aid to Afghanistan until 2020.

Australia will also provide an additional $10 million to the World Food Programme to help support emergency food and nutrition to the growing number of people internally displaced due to conflict and violence in Afghanistan.

Our aid program assists women to escape violence and access justice. Our support has also allowed many thousands of girls to attend school, particularly in remote and rural communities.

Australian aid promotes economic growth in Afghanistan by assisting Afghan farmers to increase productivity and access markets, enhancing their economic opportunities. We will continue to support Afghanistan's security and stability and build the capacity of the Afghan National Police force.

This development assistance complements our longstanding defence commitment to Afghanistan, which includes deployment of around 270 Australian Defence Force personnel and an ongoing commitment to strengthening the Afghan National Army.

Australia's continued support helps to ensure that Afghanistan does not again become a safe haven for international terrorists.