The Australian Embassy in Hanoi says in its release that the projects will bring direct benefits to seven northern provinces and cities, namely Dien Bien, Son La,  Bac Kan, Bac Ninh, Hai Duong, Hung Yen and Hanoi. 

“They will provide real assistance to local communities in Vietnam, helping them across a range of issues such as education, agriculture, the environment, disability and HIV/AIDS,” said Ambassador Allaster Cox. 

In 2008, the Australian Government supported 12 projects across 14 provinces, including a drainage system upgrade project in Vi Da Ward in central Hue city. 

Under the management of the Australian Embassy in  Hanoi, DAP provides grants for small-scale development projects aimed at alleviating humanitarian hardship in disadvantaged communities in   Vietnam. 

DAP funding also forms part of Australia’s significant bilateral aid programme for Vietnam, the ambassador said, adding that his country will provide an estimated 104 million AUD in official development assistance (ODA) to Vietnam between July 2008 and June 2009.