Canberra: The question of how Australia can contribute to Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction was the focal point of a major discussion held at Parliament House in Canberra this week. The event marked the launch of a new report by the John Curtin Research Centre (JCRC) titled “Winning the Peace: Australia and Ukraine’s Recovery”, authored by political economist Dominic Meagher. The gathering brought together senior figures including Cardinal Mykola Bychok and Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko, highlighting the importance of international solidarity in supporting Ukraine’s recovery.
In his opening remarks, Nick Dyrenfurth, Executive Director of JCRC, emphasized that Australia stands at a strategic crossroads: it can either remain a passive observer or become a respected and proactive partner in what is shaping up to be one of the largest reconstruction efforts since World War II. Dyrenfurth stressed that an active and sustained commitment to Ukraine would not only aid in rebuilding the country but also shape Australia’s long-term security, economic competitiveness, and international standing for decades to come.
The report outlines several actionable recommendations for Australia’s engagement. These include strengthening the diplomatic presence in Kyiv, deploying Australian experts in sectors such as energy, logistics, agriculture, and demining, and organizing an Australia–Ukraine Recovery Conference in 2026 to coordinate international and local efforts. Dyrenfurth underscored that such initiatives would allow Australia to play a meaningful role in “winning the peace” by ensuring that reconstruction efforts are strategic, sustainable, and internationally coordinated.
Cardinal Mykola Bychok expressed deep gratitude for the continued support of the Australian government and public, which has been consistent since the start of Russia’s invasion. He highlighted the difficult choices Ukraine faces in securing a lasting peace, questioning what the cost of this peace would be for ordinary Ukrainians and what security guarantees would prevent future aggression. Cardinal Bychok also referenced recent events in Ukraine, recalling the remembrance of the Holodomor, the 1932-33 famine that claimed millions of lives, and noting that just four days ago, nine Russian missiles struck his hometown of Ternopil, underscoring the persistent threats Ukraine continues to face.
The event also featured remarks from Alex Vynokur, founder of the United Ukraine Appeal, who emphasized that assisting Ukraine in rebuilding is not just an act of solidarity, but a defense of the democratic values and freedoms that underpin societies like Australia. By helping Ukraine “win the peace,” Vynokur argued, nations reaffirm their commitment to justice, security, and international norms.
The launch in Canberra reflected a growing recognition that Australia’s contribution to Ukraine’s recovery could extend beyond immediate humanitarian aid, encompassing expertise, diplomacy, and strategic planning to ensure a resilient and secure post-war future. The report serves as a roadmap for Australia to move from observer to active partner, helping Ukraine transform the devastation of war into a foundation for long-term peace and prosperity.