Development Cooperation

Australia supports Jordan’s refugee response

Australia has committed over $140 million in funding since 2017 to support Jordan’s humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis in Syria and, more recently, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza from the war that followed the 7 October 2023 attacks. 

Australia actively supports the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO) by providing direct funding and essential supplies to facilitate vital humanitarian operations in Gaza and the region. 

Jordan currently hosts around 380,000 registered Syrian refugees in the community and in camps.  Following the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, a number of refugees in Jordan returned to Syria and many more have expressed interest in the prospect of returning. However, the number of returns has been fewer than anticipated and has slowed over the course of 2025-26, with ongoing barriers including the lack of public services, infrastructure and safety. 

Australia’s funding provides protection support for the most vulnerable refugees, and access to public education for refugee children in close partnership with the Jordanian Ministry of Education. 

Direct Aid Program (DAP)

The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a flexible small grants scheme designed to support community development activities. It is available on a not-for-profit basis to individuals, community groups and NGOs in Jordan.

Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR)

The Australian Government established the Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR) in 2003 as an initiative to strengthen ties between Australia and Arab countries. The CAAR Grants Round seeks applications for projects that enhance Australia's economic, cultural and social relations with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The projects can take place in Australia or the MENA region and must have an Australian partner.

For more information, see Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR).

Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP)

The ANCP is a unique Australian development program. It is a partnership between the Australian Government and highly effective Australian Non-Government Organisations (NGOs). ANCP NGOs and their local partners run community-based projects that have a direct and tangible impact on the individuals, institutions and communities involved.

For more information, Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).

 

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