[1] The organisation raises funds for international humanitarian programs supporting refugees and other displaced or stateless people, and undertakes activities to raise public awareness of the plight of refugees and other persons of concern to UNHCR.

[4] This has funded humanitarian work in Central America,[5] the Philippines[6] and throughout Africa.

[10] The founding patron of Australia for UNHCR was former Nationals leader and deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer, who was followed by former Governor General of Australia, Quentin Bryce.

[11] As of January 2025[update] the Patrons are Gillian Triggs and Michael Dwyer.

[12] Members of the Board of Directors include former CEO of First State Super Michael Dwyer,[13] Chief Technology Officer for The Iconic Zoe Ghani, former ABC News (Australia) executive Kate Dundas, Microsoft Australia executive Lynn Dang, Rick Millen and sports administrator John Boultbee (sport administrator).