The committee recommends that any future requests from the Ukrainian Government for Australian coal shipments be responded to with high priority, acknowledging the serious threat to the Ukrainian population of energy shortages and Australia’s ability to assist with this challenge.

Government Response to Recommendation 5

The Government notes this recommendation, and notes that Australia affords Ukraine maximum flexibility in meeting their energy needs through support to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund.

The Government is unwavering in its support to the people of Ukraine in the face of Russia's unprovoked and unjustifiable war. The Government is in close and regular contact with the Ukraine Government in Canberra and Kyiv to ensure we provide timely support that meets the needs of the Government and people of Ukraine. This close and regular contact has enabled Australia to provide more than $1.5 billion in support to Ukraine.

The Government has provided the equivalent of $63.4 million in energy support since Russia’s invasion. This includes $30 million to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund ($20 million announced in May 2024 and $10 million announced in December 2024). These contributions allowed for Ukraine’s Energy Ministry to respond flexibly to its highest priority energy needs, including fuel, equipment, repairs or reinforcements of Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure.

Additionally, as part of Australia’s $85 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, we have provided $35 million to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, managed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. This includes $10 million announced on 31 May 2024. The Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, supports winterisation efforts including the provision of fuel and cash assistance to address energy needs.