As the Federal Government prepares to hand down the May Budget, new polling shows Australians want overseas aid protected and maintained, reflecting strong support for helping communities in our region facing poverty, disasters and growing instability.

The nationwide YouGov poll, conducted for Safer World For All, finds 74 per cent of Australians believe overseas aid funding should be maintained or increased.

The polling also highlights a widespread misperception about current spending levels, with eight in ten Australians believing overseas aid already accounts for more than 1 per cent of government spending, when in reality it represents just 0.65 per cent.

A moral responsibility to support our neighbours

Support for overseas aid is driven by deeply held values of fairness, compassion and responsibility, particularly toward countries in Australia’s immediate region:

  • 79 per cent agree Australia should provide aid to help communities respond to disasters and reduce poverty
  • 75 per cent agree that in an uncertain world, aid helps Australia make and keep friends.

Support is strong across age groups, genders and voters from all major parties.

Protecting aid helps prevent bigger crises

Australians also recognise the modern role of aid in preventing crises rather than responding after the damage is done.

68 per cent agree that overseas aid contributes to security and stability in Australia’s region – by strengthening disaster preparedness, supporting climate resilience and preventing hardship from escalating into humanitarian or security crises.

Clear expectation ahead of the Budget

When Australians are told how small the aid budget actually is, nearly three‑quarters support maintaining or increasing funding rather than cutting it.

Safer World For All is calling on the Federal Government to protect overseas aid in the May Budget and continue Australia’s role as a reliable, values-driven partner across our region.

Quotes attributable to Hayley Cull, Deputy CEO of Plan International Australia

“Australians believe helping our neighbours through hardship is the right thing to do – and that it helps build a safer, more stable region. Protecting aid in this Budget is a small decision with a huge moral and regional payoff.”

“Australians expect us to act with responsibility and compassion, especially when the cost is so modest.”

“Helping early reduces suffering and avoids emergencies spiralling out of control. That matters morally, and it matters for Australia’s future in our region.”

Quotes attributable to Kirsten Sayers, CEO, Caritas Australia:

“This polling reflects a growing understanding among Australians that aid is not just about responding to crises, but preventing them in the first place. Supporting strong and stable neighbours is essential for our region’s security.”

“In a more uncertain world, Australians recognise that defence alone is not enough. Aid plays a critical role in preventing instability before it escalates – and getting that balance right makes Australia safer.”

Further background is available in the Modern Case for Australian Aid. 

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact ACFID Media at  media@acfid.asn.au  or call 0401 721 064.