In the year to the end of June 2024 Caritas Australia directly supported 542,181 people experiencing humanitarian emergencies, with a further 1,547,748 people reached by emergency appeals supported by Caritas Australia. This impact was felt across 30 emergency responses in 24 countries, managed by 17 emergency response partners.  

This included continued support for the people of Ukraine, who are experiencing their third year of war, as well as responding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the famine in Sudan, the hunger crisis in Africa, landslides in Papua New Guinea, as well as Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, and various programs supporting displaced and climate impacted communities around the world.  

In the coming year, the UN estimates 305m people will need humanitarian support, with the organisation budgeting for US$47.4bn to help 189.5 million of those people. The two main drivers of this humanitarian need, conflict and the global climate emergency, are man-made. Earlier this year the Global Peace Index revealed we are experiencing the highest levels of global conflict since World War Two, with 120 million people now forcibly displaced worldwide, which is also a record high.  

Sally Thomas, Humanitarian Manager at Caritas Australia said, “The past year has not reflected the best of humanity, but the generosity of our community and the programs they support have acted as a light amid that darkness. As this year ends, we must take the time to count our blessings and consider sharing them with those less fortunate than ourselves.”  

“In the year ahead, as a global human family, we must give more to those in need, while putting pressure on our governments to use all diplomatic measures to usher in peace. We must strive to set records with our humanity, compassion, and generosity in the New Year, rather than continue to set records for conflict and suffering.” 

Caritas Australia’s Christmas Appeal shares the story of Sakhina, who received the life changing gift of clean water because of programs Caritas supports in Bangladesh.

You can read more about Sakhina's story and support the Christmas appeal, or find out more about emergency appeals, by clicking the buttons below.

Donations can also be made by calling 1800 024 413 toll free.