Development cooperation and humanitarian assistance
Australia's development efforts are set out in Australia's International Development Policy.
Prior to the February 2021 military coup, Myanmar had been navigating multiple complex transitions: from military rule to a democratic government, from a closed to an open market economy and from conflict to peace. The coup and its aftermath has reversed many of the gains made and significantly amplified Myanmar's humanitarian and development challenges.
Prior to the coup, around one-third of Myanmar was affected by protracted conflict with over 300,000 people internally displaced. Since the coup, humanitarian needs have surged. New and increased conflict across the country has led to the further internal displacement of over 3.1 million people (as of October 2024). The UN has estimated that 18.6 million people need humanitarian assistance in 2024.
Australia's commitment to Myanmar's development and support to the people of Myanmar remains steadfast. Since the coup, Australia's assistance in Myanmar has pivoted to meet the needs of the country's most vulnerable people, including the women and girls, the poor and ethnic minorities. We have redirected development assistance away from regime entities and do not provide funding directly to the regime. To ensure our support benefits the people who need it most, we work through trusted non-government partners including multilateral and non- government organisations.
More information on the Australian Government’s development cooperation and humanitarian program in Myanmar can be found here.