Australia’s Ukraine aid effort set for parliament probe

Australia’s response to the war in Ukraine will go under the microscope when aid agencies and government departments front a parliamentary inquiry.

Two-and-a-half years on from Russia’s invasion of its neighbor, the international effort to support the embattled nation is taking center stage.

The senate inquiry is looking at whether Australia’s support for Ukraine has been “sufficient, timely and co-ordinated” across government and industry.

It will also focus on efforts to hold Russia to account, including addressing misinformation in Australian public debate.

Aid organization World Vision predicted Russia’s offensive will intensify in the coming weeks and months, further strengthening the need for international assistance.

Even the 3.8 million people who were displaced but have returned to their homes require ongoing support for things like protections, employment, livelihoods and housing, the organization said.

“While the initial two-year support by the Australian government was welcomed, it is important to continue to provide these services into the future,” its submission said.

“The rebuild of Ukrainian society will involve bricks and mortar, but it will also involve psychological recovery … it is important we look to the future and support children and families now by providing stability for children growing up in this environment.”

Australia’s support packages have been comparatively small, giving around $1 billion to Ukraine including 120 armored Bushmaster vehicles.

In comparison, the US has given a whopping $US55 billion ($A84 billion) in security assistance since the February 2022 invasion.

The Red Cross said the Russian invasion and subsequent humanitarian disaster should help the Australian government plot a “consistent and co-ordinated approach” to similar overseas crises.

“This could include emergency evacuations, safe and regular pathways to Australia, and support for migrants in Australia,” its submission to the inquiry read.

At a previous hearing, the committee was urged to see Australia step up its support, noting aid has become less frequent and smaller in the months since the invasion.

Retired Australian army major general Mick Ryan, who will present to the inquiry on Monday, said Australia had become only the sixth-largest non-NATO aid contributor as a percentage of GDP.

“This needs to change, particularly as 2024 shapes up as a very tough year militarily and diplomatically for Ukraine,” his submission said.

Officials from the Defence, Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs departments are also due to give evidence.