UNICEF is a strong partner for Australia in Asia and the Pacific. Its strategic priorities in health, child survival and education are closely aligned with Australia's interests, and its global presence extends the Australian aid program into regions where Australia has limited presence.
UNICEF's mandate and strategic objectives align with four of the five strategic goals of the Australian aid program–saving lives, promoting opportunities for all, effective governance and humanitarian and disaster response. In 2011, Australia was the seventh largest government donor to UNICEF and the fifth largest government donor for humanitarian and emergency responses.
In 2008, AusAID established a partnership framework with UNICEF to 2015. Core funding of $93.6 million was provided under the partnership framework between 2008 and 2011. A mid-term review of the partnership framework in 2012 concluded that, 'AusAID and UNICEF have worked together effectively to continually improve the alignment of activities with national priorities and needs, and to make greater use of country systems.'
UNICEF and AusAID cooperated to strengthen emergency operations and response, with a focus on alleviating the suffering of women and children. As for the UNDP review, opportunities to strengthen the partnership include a stronger focus on results, value for money, transparency and public communication of achievements.
AusAID expects to sign a revised partnership framework with UNICEF in 2013.
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