Caritas Australia has marked a year of substantial impact amid escalating global crises, supporting over 2.3 million people across 30 countries through life-saving humanitarian aid and long-term development programs over the past year.
From responding to devastating emergencies to empowering communities to thrive, Caritas Australia worked alongside 74 local partners to deliver hope and resilience where it was needed most.
“This year, we’ve seen the power of compassion in action,” said Kirsten Sayers, CEO of Caritas Australia. “Despite global challenges – from conflict and climate disasters to economic hardship – our supporters and partners have helped us reach millions of people with urgent relief and long-term solutions.”
Caritas Australia provided critical assistance to 2,011,537 people in 15 countries affected by some of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, including:
- Gaza: Reaching 1.7 million people with food, water, shelter, cash assistance and psychosocial support amid catastrophic conditions.
- Ukraine: Supporting 600,000 people in 2024 alone, as the war entered its fourth year.
- Myanmar: Delivering emergency food, shelter and water to families impacted by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake and ongoing conflict.
Beyond crisis response, Caritas Australia invested in programs that tackle poverty at its root causes and promote sustainable change.
Across Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Caritas Australia’s development programs impacted 1.85 million people, with a strong focus on women, children and people living with disabilities.
One of these programs is the San Isidro Rural Training Centre in the Solomon Islands, which has helped hundreds of young people with hearing impairments gain skills, learn sign language, and build brighter futures.
Among them is 15-year-old Emmanuel, whose schooling was disrupted because no one could interpret for him. At San Isidro, he learned sign language, literacy, basic finance, and gardening. When he graduates, Emmanuel hopes to return home and support his parents with his new skills.
Reflecting on the impact of Caritas Australia’s programs, Kirsten Sayers concluded, “Our achievements are only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters in schools, parishes and communities across Australia. It shows that when we work together, compassion truly can change the world.”
For more information or to read the full Annual Report, visit https://www.caritas.org.au/reports/annual-reports/
