Australia Boosts Development Aid to Cambodia, Focusing on Social Protection and Agriculture

Australian Minister for International Development, H.E. Dr Anne Aly MP, visited Cambodia on July 30-31, advancing the two countries' enduring partnership. Minister Aly met Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, H.E. Prak Sokhonn, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, and reaffirmed Australia's commitment to Cambodia as a steadfast and reliable development partner. H.E. Dr Anne Aly announced an additional AU$3 million (about US$2.1 million) to support Cambodia's efforts to strengthen its social protection systems to assist vulnerable households facing economic shocks, and confirmed that Australia's official development assistance to Cambodia in 2026-27 will be an estimated AU$94.4 million. Minister Aly toured Kirirom Food Production, where Australia is helping local businesses access international markets, create employment opportunities for women, support rural livelihoods and promote inclusive economic growth. At the Kampong Speu fishway, she announced a funding of AU$9.5 million (about US$6.65 million) for a new phase of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) FishTech programme, supporting regional economic resilience, food security and environmental sustainability. During the visit, she also met Australia Awards alumni and Australian volunteers reaffirming the deep people-to-people connections between Australia and Cambodia and the commitment to supporting human capital development. Speaking at the conclusion of her visit, Minister Aly said the strong bilateral partnership continued to deliver tangible benefits for communities across Cambodia. “Australia is proud to stand alongside Cambodia as a trusted and longstanding partner. Through our development support, including the announcements I made during my visit, we are helping to improve livelihoods and support sustainable, inclusive and resilient development in Cambodia,” she said. She also reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to ensuring that its partnership in Cambodia continues to be responsive and aligned with the nation's priorities and aspirations. Australia will continue to work closely with Cambodia to deliver practical outcomes that improve lives and support a peaceful, stable and prosperous region, she added. By Chea Vannak