Australia pledges $40m for Afghan aid

Afghanistan is facing food shortages and more than half the children under five are at risk of acute malnutrition.

Senator Payne condemned the Taliban's treatment of women since the group reseized power last year, including its restrictions on access to education, work and other freedoms. 

"The Taliban has broken its commitment to allow women and girls access to education," the foreign minister said.  

"Women have a vital role in addressing the crisis in Afghanistan. Their meaningful participation is necessary for the stability and prosperity of Afghanistan.

"We strongly condemn this decision and call for its immediate reversal."