George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Senator McKim, I think you're wrong. The Prime Minister, I understand, has already expressed on behalf of the Australian people his concern about the humanitarian issues of the people in Rakhine State. The foreign minister, as well, on behalf of the government on Saturday, set out the Australian government's response, including a commitment of up to $5 million to address immediate needs. The government has spoken directly to Myanmar and we've called for restraint, the protection of civilians, and unfettered access for humanitarian workers. We have also spoken directly with our regional partners. The foreign minister personally spoke with President Widodo and will continue to closely engage with Indonesia and others. We, like everyone in our region, are very focused on this crisis.

At the moment, Senator McKim, what Australia—like other regional partners—needs to do is to focus on immediate issues. Our focus must be on meeting the urgent need for food and shelter, and supporting agencies like the UNHCR. Australia recognises the heavy burden placed on Bangladesh. We have committed up to $5 million for our immediate response to the crisis. That funding will bring Australia's assistance for Rohingya and other affected communities to over $50 million since 2012. We also welcome Myanmar's commitment to ensure assistance reaches communities through the Red Cross, but this must be expanded to other agencies, including UN agencies.