Mercy Works Partners in PNG

CARITAS Australia, the international aid and development organisation of the Catholic Church, has backed a letter from Australia’s business leaders, calling for the Prime Minister and Opposition leader to strengthen their commitment to international aid.

On the eve of the Prime Minister’s planned visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG), Caritas CEO Jack de Groot said foreign aid saves lives and makes a huge difference, particularly in the Pacific region.

PNG is one of the largest recipients of Australian foreign aid money, receiving over $490 million in the 2012/13 budget.

“Countries in the Pacific are our nearest neighbours and we share a history and partnerships. Supporting countries such as PNG with foreign aid is not only the right thing to do, it’s in our best interests as a nation,” Mr de Groot said. Continue reading →