Presentation/s:

For the last decade the World Bank and Asian Development Bank have been described as the ‘key partners’ of Australia’s aid program. Other than AusAID itself, the banks are the single largest channel for delivering Australian aid.

Until recently, there has been little clear or consistent data to describe their role. Moreover, while both of these institutions have been the subject of sustained and vigorous critique internationally, there has been relatively little discussion within the Australian development community.

Banking on Aid is a new report by Manna Gum and Oxfam Australia, which presents a more complete picture of the relationship between the banks and the Australian aid program and surveys the arguments for and against them. In light of the forecast doubling of the Australian aid program, and the Aid Review’s recommended “substantial increase” for the World Bank and ADB, the report calls for a much more critical consideration of the role that the banks play in the delivery of Australian aid.

Oxfam Australia and the Development Policy Centre will launch the report at the Crawford School of Economics and Government, ANU. Prior to the launch, an expert panel will discuss the report’s recommendations and findings

Jonathan Cornford, Director, Manna Gum.

Matthew Morris, Deputy Director, Development Policy Centre, Crawford School, ANU.

Jessica Rosien, Advocacy Manager, Oxfam Australia.

Paul Wojciechowski, Assistant Director General, Multilateral Policy and Partnerships Branch, AusAID.

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