Development Cooperation
Overview of the Australia-Sri Lanka Development Partnership
Australia has a longstanding and impactful development program in Sri Lanka. Over the past decade, Australia has supported a wide range of economic and governance reform in Sri Lanka, as well as measures to strengthen civil society and build skills development.
In response to Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis, Australia provided a surge in funding ($75 million in 2022) to meet immediate humanitarian food security and health needs. As Sri Lanka’s economic recovery continues, Australia’s development program will seek to support inclusive, sustainable and resilient economic growth.
Australia is a trusted partner of choice for Sri Lanka. We listen carefully to Sri Lankan partners to build a better understanding of their needs and common challenges. We work in friendship on joint development solutions to support the growth of a strong, successful Sri Lanka, in turn contributing to a more resilient Indian Ocean region.
In 2024-25, the Australian Government will provide an estimated $23.9 million in Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Sri Lanka. This includes an estimated $16 million in bilateral funding, managed by DFAT.
For more information on Australia’s development partnership with Sri Lanka visit our DFAT website. Details on programs in Sri Lanka is available on the AusDevPortal.
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Australia’s Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a flexible, small grants program that funds local organisations at the community level to deliver practical and tangible development outcomes.
In 2025, AUD $495,000 was awarded to seven projects in Sri Lanka focusing on climate change, women’s economic empowerment, gender-based violence and disability equity and rights.
For further information please see here
Calls are now open for the next round of Australia’s Direct Aid Program in Sri Lanka. DAP provides grants of up to $A80,000 over two years to local organisations.
Preference will be given to projects that address one or more of the following priorities:
- Promoting gender equality, disability inclusion, youth or social inclusion
- Addressing environmental issues including climate change and improving agriculture
- Supporting or promoting mental health and wellbeing
Applications are due in the Smarty Grants system by 11 August 2025 at 5:00pm (Sri Lanka Time)
Please find further details here: