Non-government organisations
Non-government organisations (NGOs) play a key role in the provision of Australian aid to developing countries. Through their strong links with communities in developing countries and partnerships with local organisations, NGOs are well placed to strengthen civil society and build longer-term sustainable development at the grass roots level. Under the AusAID/NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) the aid program supplements funds provided by the community, enhancing the scale and effectiveness of NGO activities and providing NGOs with the capacity to respond to their own regional and sectoral priorities.
Volunteer programs
Volunteers help to reduce poverty through skills transfer and institutional strengthening, and heighten Australian community participation and interest in the aid program. Four agencies currently receive grant funding under AusAID’s Volunteer Programs: Australian Volunteers International (AVI), AESOP Business Volunteers, Inter-serve and the Paulian Lay Missionary Society (PALMS). In addition, the Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development Program develops partnerships with Australian organisations, and with education, community and government sectors through the placement of young Australians on development assignments throughout the Asia Pacific region.