Australia quietly boosts foreign aid amid concerns over Covid-19 and China's influence

Australian aid spending in the current year has increased by 9 per cent to A$4.4 billion, including substantial increases to spending in South-east Asia. PHOTO: EPA-EFE
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SYDNEY - Australia's ruling coalition has finally begun to boost foreign aid after years of drastic cuts, but it appears to be keeping the move quiet.

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, Australia has lifted aid to support regional countries affected by the pandemic amid growing concerns about regional stability and China's rising influence in the region.

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