Media Releases - 2016
Joint Media Release: Australia Extends Assistance to Afghanistan
8 July 2016
The Australian Government today announced it will continue to support the security of Afghanistan and will join other nations in pledging ongoing financial assistance at the NATO Leaders’ Summit in Warsaw from 8 to 9 July.
Since 2010, Australia has been a leading contributor to the sustainment of the Afghan security forces, with a total commitment of US$500 million from 2010 to 2017.
Australia will extend its US$100 million annual commitment to the Afghan National Army and National Police until 2020 in order to entrench and build on the gains made in Afghanistan over the past decade.
The commitment includes an US$80 million contribution to the Afghan National Army Trust Fund and a $20 million contribution to the Afghan National Police.
It is vital to continue to build the capacity of the Afghan security forces to defend the Afghan people against the Taliban and other terrorist groups.
It is important to continue our commitment to our international responsibilities and help prevent Afghanistan from again becoming a safe haven for international terrorists.
This decision will reinforce Australia’s role as a constructive partner in broader international efforts in Afghanistan and the region.
We will also maintain support for the Afghanistan security forces through our Australian Defence Force contribution to the NATO-led Resolute Support mission.
Australian Defence Force personnel will continue to work alongside their counterparts from 39 other nations in non-combat roles into 2017.
There are currently around 270 ADF personnel deployed to Afghanistan, providing training, advice and assistance to Afghan security forces essential for the stability of Afghanistan.
In line with caretaker protocols, the Opposition has been briefed regarding this commitment.
The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP
Prime Minister of Australia
The Hon Julie Bishop MP
Foreign Minister for Australia
Senator The Hon Marise Payne
Defence Minister for Australia
Message from the Prime Minister - Ramadan Message
6 June 2016
To Muslims across Australia and around the world, Lucy and I send our warmest greetings to all those observing the Ramadan month of fasting.
For Muslims, Ramadan is the holiest month of the year - a time for charity, for remembering the less fortunate in society, and a time for personal reflection and renewal.
At this time I also hope that you will enjoy Iftar, not only with family and friends, but also with neighbours who may be unfamiliar with Ramadan and Islamic traditions.
The practice of sharing meals establishes links across cultural communities and builds bonds of understanding.
We are a nation that respects each other’s right to freedom of speech, thought and religion. That right, supported by our principles of democracy and law, bind us together into what I believe to be the most successful multicultural society in the world.
I look forward this year to hosting Australian Muslims and representatives of various faiths at an Iftar dinner to honour the month of Ramadan
From my family to yours, Ramadan Mubarak
The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP
Prime Minister of Australia
Message from the Minister for Immigration - Australia's Border Protection Measures Remain in Force
4 February 2016
The Australian Government’s tough border protection measures to stop illegal people smuggling and ensure the sovereignty of Australia’s borders remain in full force.
The decision by the High Court of Australia means that regional processing continues – this is a key element of Operation Sovereign Borders policy.
The Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Peter Dutton said Australia remains resolute in its commitment to counter people smuggling and prevent people risking their life at sea.
“Australia has removed more than 20 boats from our waters over the past two years and our policy to turn back people smuggling boats to their country of departure will continue,” Mr Dutton said.
“The Government also remains committed to regional processing which, beyond our comprehensive on-water measures, provides a further deterrent to people who might otherwise attempt to travel illegally by boat to Australia.
“My message is that there are only two outcomes for people who travel illegally by boat to Australia: they will be intercepted and turned back from Australian waters or they will be sent to another country for processing.
“Processing and resettlement in Australia will never be an option and there are no exceptions; these rules apply to everyone.”
People who seek to use a people smuggler to get to Australia risk losing everything, including their lives and the lives of family members.
For further information: Minister’s Office – 02 6277 7860
The Hon Peter Dutton MP
Minister for Immigration and Border Protection