This year the Australian Government will spend $4.3 billion in aid – and by 2015-16 this is expected to double to over $8 billion. Australia’s aid program can make a huge difference to the lives of millions of people.

Unfortunately, the aid program continues to be driven by Australia’s commercial and strategic interests, which means a lot of money ends up in the pockets of Australian consultants and companies – instead of to the people who need it most. Furthermore, lack of transparency hides the reality of how our aid money is being spent.

You can help ensure Australia’s aid money is being spent effectively to build a more sustainable and just world for all by writing a submission to the Independent Review.

Check out our suggested submission and tailor it for yourself or, if you’re busy, just copy it directly. Then email it to submissions@aidreview.gov.au Remember to add your name and details at the bottom.

The deadline for submission is 2 February 2011 – This is your chance to have a say.

Together we can work to ensure Australia’s aid makes a valuable contribution to addressing poverty and inequality.

Many thanks for your support!

The AID/WATCH team