by RK desk
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh | June 24, 2026
Australia has announced a new funding package of USD 11.4 million (AUD 16 million) to support Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh through UNICEF over the next three years.
The funding, which began in April 2026 and will continue through 2028, aims to sustain essential services for Rohingya children, including education, healthcare, nutrition, and child protection.
Speaking during a meeting with Bangladesh’s Home Minister, Australian High Commissioner Susan Ryle reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting Rohingya refugees and the communities hosting them.
She said the new contribution would help ensure that Rohingya children continue to receive access to critical services, protection, and learning opportunities.
UNICEF Representative Rana Flowers emphasized the importance of sustained international support, warning that funding shortfalls could leave many Rohingya children without access to education and other essential services.
According to UNICEF, Australia has been a longstanding partner in humanitarian efforts supporting Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. In 2025, UNICEF programmes supported by Australian funding reached more than 637,000 people in the refugee camps and surrounding host communities.
Despite the new contribution, humanitarian agencies continue to face funding challenges. UNICEF estimates a remaining funding gap of USD 13.5 million for priority life-saving programmes planned for 2026.
Aid organizations have urged the international community to maintain support for Rohingya refugees and host communities to ensure continued access to essential humanitarian services.
