The Australian Embassy on August 23 announced a new partnership with six international non-profit organizations to help Vietnam address climate change at the community level. With total funding of US$15 million over two and a half years, Australia’s support will help communities manage the impact of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “Australia and our partners will reduce the risks from climate change-related natural disasters and threats to food and water security, helping 500,000 vulnerable people,” says Australian Ambassador to Vietnam, Hugh Borrowman. Vietnam is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, particularly in the Mekong Delta where rising sea levels, salt water intrusion and flooding are already affecting vulnerable coastal communities. Australian support will build the capacity of officials and farmers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve rice production in the Mekong Delta and Central Region, and identify practical steps for adapting to climate change drawing on local knowledge and experience. “NGOs are well positioned to work directly with local communities and local governments, and to help bring community needs and experience to the national level to inform climate change planning and investment. Our partnership with NGOs is an essential element in the effective delivery of these programs,” the Ambassador said. Australia will partner with six international organizations, including the Australian Red Cross Society, CARE Australia, the Environmental Defense Fund, Oxfam Australia, Save the Children Australia, and SNV Netherlands Development Organization. They will work in collaboration with other international and local organizations and authorities in the delivery of the program. The US$15 million funding for Vietnam is part of Australia’s US$599 million global ‘fast-start’ climate change finance commitment in 2010-2113 period and continues Australia’s strong record of supporting community-level adaptation activities in developing countries. VOV