• Entry type: Concept
  • Entry ID: AWE0722

International programs, Australian Red Cross

Summary

International development programs and aid are a core function of the national office of the Australian Red Cross. Funds were initially donated to the Red Cross Society in the nation affected by disaster, as in the Japanese earthquake of 1923. From the 1970s, the national office of the Australian Red Cross has directly appealed for, and received, funds to assist in major international operations. The Australian Red Cross Field Force of overseas workers provided relief in the field during World War II into the 1970s. In many respects, these were the forerunners of Australian Red Cross delegates, who provide specialist skills for international programs, development and assignments by Red Cross Societies. Some of these delegates come under the International Committee of the Red Cross, others under the Federation, and some under the Australian Red Cross, depending upon the project. In 2004, the International Department of Australian Red Cross had specific desks for the areas, such as the Asia-Pacific, which serve as contact points for development programs. The Australian Red Cross’s Strategy 2005 aimed to provide high quality international humanitarian assistance and development programs in partnership with governments, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and vulnerable communities.

Published resources

  • Report
    • Strategy 2005, Australian Red Cross, c2002
    • Australian Red Cross Society Reports, Australian Red Cross Society, c. 1973
  • Book
    • 50 years service to humanity, Australian Red Cross Society, [1964]
    • The More things change…The Australian Red Cross 1914-1989, Minogue, Noreen, 1989
  • Resource

Archival resources

  • The University of Melbourne Archives
    • Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) and Field Force Personnel Records
    • International Project Files
    • Annual Reports of the Australian Red Cross
    • Minutes and Meeting Papers, National Council
    • Annual Reports of Red Cross Divisions and Blood Service

Related entries


  • Superior
    • Australian Red Cross (1914 - )