The DFAT–TAF Partnership represents a new form of collaboration between the Australian Department
of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and The Asia Foundation aimed at supporting programs and policy
innovations that can improve aid effectiveness in the Asia Pacific Region. This objective is consistent with
the development policy of the Australian government which seeks to promote prosperity, reduce poverty, and enhance stability.
The main premise underlying the Partnership is that investment in knowledge exchange and joint learning at the strategic and program levels can improve both impact and value for money in the assistance provided by both organizations. To this end, we have been developing, testing, and promoting cost-effective innovations that can increase the impact of development assistance that responds to the dynamic and evolving needs of the region. Key areas of innovation include (a) efforts to advance entrepreneurial and politically-informed approaches to reform; (b) improving results through more effective and dynamic integration of research with on-the-ground action; (c) efforts to accelerate country-level reform and development through crossborder and regional solutions; and (d) exploration of quick response assistance to meet local needs as these emerge. In all of these areas, our approach has been to tap the deep knowledge and insights of our partners and staff, and combine investment in the most creative ideas with rigorous assessment of results.
