'$4$ campaign we launched at Tecoma Uniting Church means every $ people donate to aid orgs like World Vision the govt gives a $ too', Mr Rudd said on social-networking site Twitter.
"This is a tragedy beyond comprehension. Thirteen million people are in a fight for survival; that's more than half the population of Australia. An initiative like this will keep the spotlight on this unfolding tragedy and hopefully encourage people to dig deep", Oxfam Australia Executive Director Andrew Hewett said in a statement.
The initiative will apply to public donations to aid agencies, and will run from now until November 30.
"I call on all Australians, from individuals to businesses, to donate whatever they can spare during October and November to help us save more lives", the Telegraph reported Mr Rudd as saying.
Caritas Australia also applauded the move.
"Australians have been generous throughout this crisis but unfortunately the scale of this disaster means a great deal more funds are needed," CEO Jack de Groot said.
