According to a press release issued by the Australian Embassy on July 5, 17 projects in 14 provinces have so far received funding and most activities are focused on livelihood improvement and environmental protection; vocational training and job creation for disabled people; building of shelters for the disabled, orphans and children affected by dioxin; prevention of human trafficking and support for the return of trafficked women.

ASAS is a component of the Vietnam-Australia Development Co-operation Programme, which is administered by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) of the Australian Embassy in Hanoi. The scheme aims to support small-scale initiatives, which contribute to poverty reduction and sustainable development in Vietnam.

Since 1995, the Australian Government has provided over AUD8 million through ASAS to support innovative poverty reduction activities.