Tony Zappia (Makin, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Yesterday I met with representatives of Micah Australia, who, I know, also spoke with other members of this place. They drew my attention to the global hunger crisis facing people around the world, with the top five at-risk countries being Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen, South Sudan and Afghanistan. A combination of conflict, COVID-19 and climate change has created a humanitarian emergency, with an estimated 10,000 children dying of hunger every day. Countless more will inevitably be left with lifelong health problems and disabilities. These are children who, through no fault of their own, are fighting for their lives, as are other members of their families. Micah reports that 50 million people in 45 countries are on the verge of famine.

A global response is urgently needed, and Australia must be a part of that response. Micah is calling on Australia to provide $150 million to the global hunger crisis. The Australian people have always shown a willingness to give generously at times of crisis. Even acknowledging our own budgetary pressures, there is no greater priority than saving lives. I urge the government to consider the Micah request and how else Australia may be able to provide assistance in the global response to the hunger crisis.