Speaking up for Fairness and Generosity

Ahead of next week’s federal budget, there have been reports of further cuts to Australia’s foreign aid budget.

In response, Adventist leaders have spoken out, encouraging church members to advocate for a fairer and more generous approach.

ADRA Australia CEO Paul Rubessa said he was “alarmed” to hear reports of another potential cut.

“We can’t rectify our budget deficit by creating a moral deficit,” Mr Rubessa said.

Social justice advocate and Signs Publishing book editor Nathan Brown outlined Australia’s shrinking aid budget.

“Currently, Australia gives the lowest percentage of aid we have ever given. Our government spends just 22 cents for every $100 of Gross National Income, less than one-third of what the UK contributes,” Mr Brown said.

Greater Sydney Conference president Terry Johnson implored Adventists to make their voices heard for justice by contacting their local federal Member of Parliament to be “a voice for the voiceless”.

“As Adventists, we have a responsibility to speak up for the vulnerable. By speaking up for the poor, we are doing exactly what Jesus asked us to do,” he said.

ADRA Australia is a member of Micah Australia, a movement of Christians raising a powerful voice for justice.

Want to make a difference? Click here and enter your postcode to find your local MP’s contact details and tell them why you believe Australian Aid is important.