Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has announced that the country will extend its campaign of air strikes from Iraq into Syria, at the same time as taking an extra 12,000 refugees affected by the conflict in both countries.
The 12,000 places will be in addition to the existing humanitarian programme quota of 13,750, which rises to 18,750 in 2018-19.
In addition, Australia will provide humanitarian support to more than 240,000 Syrian and Iraqi people who have been forced to flee their homes or seek refuge in neighbouring countries. This is expected to cost $44 million.
"This funding will deliver much needed food, water, healthcare, education, emergency supplies and protection, including support for women and girls".
With this additional commitment, Australia’s contribution to help address the humanitarian crisis in Syria and Iraq will be around $230 million since 2011.
"We are able to make this contribution because the Coalition Government has stopped the flow of illegal boats to Australia, easing the pressure on our humanitarian programme," the government said in a statement.
"Our focus will be on those most in need – the women, children and families of persecuted minorities who have sought refuge from the conflict in Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey".
A team of Government officials will depart for the region as soon as possible to begin identifying and processing potential candidates for resettlement.
They will undergo normal security, health and character checks before coming to Australia and receiving permanent protection.
