The IDC was formed in the late 1990s and at that time its prime focus of engagement was with the Australian aid program around the contracting aspects of involvement from the Managing Contractor community. Since this period, and most recently from about 2010, the IDC's focus has been squarely on ensuring that the delivery of development activities is achieved with the greatest possibly effect.
Historically the private sector and specifically members of the IDC have managed the implementation of upwards of 20% of the Australian aid budget. The IDC currently represents a diverse group of more than 20 private sector companies, some employing upwards of 50,000 employees, and each who continue to strive for better development outcomes. IDC membership has recently been opened to individuals, which is seen as an important evolution to harness other voices of experience to positively contribute to the delivery of better development.
Many of our members are global operations, operating in most if not all jurisdictions of importance to Australia. We believe our potential to contribute to stronger private sector development, trade and diplomacy objectives in addition to our aid delivery experience has not been harnessed to its potential in the past.
Members include large multinational organisations, SMEs and individuals, each of which bring global expereinces in addition to many years of positive contribution to the initiatives of the Australian aid program. Our members are experienced development professionals and practitioners and greater harnessing this intellect and experience can achieve better development outcomes and ensure aid budgets deliver value and leverage possibilities.
The IDC assists in educating Australians about international development and why it is an important contribution made by the Australian people. It also aims to contribute to the effectiveness of the aid program by combining their experiences, knowledge and resources and providing advice and support to the international development community.
The members of the IDC are one group of important contributors to better development and our commitment to good, ethical and professional development delivery underpins all that we do.
