In its first budget, in 1996-97, the Howard government abolished the commercially motivated DIFF scheme. In June 1996, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, commissioned an independent committee, under the chairmanship of Mr Paul Simons, to conduct a review of the aid program. The government accepted this principle. In its Foreign Affairs and Trade policy released during the 1998 election campaign, the Coalition said it would continue to support the United Nations 0.7 percent Official Development Assistance to Gross National Product ratio target and endeavour to maintain Australia's aid program at the highest level consistent with the needs of aid partner countries and Australia's own economic circumstances and capacity to assist. 28 Figures supplied by AusAID Statistical Services Section.
Figures are for calendar years.
32 Figures supplied by Foreign Minister Downer's office.