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Freer movement: Pacific priorities for Labor in its second term

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T-shirts promote aid programs in the Pacific region (Stephen Howes)

This month’s Australian elections brought many surprises. One of them was that Labor, once returned, decided to separate the Pacific and international development ministerial portfolios for the first time (for any government) since 2007.

Then it was Duncan Kerr for the Pacific and Bob McMullan for aid, both parliamentary secretaries. Now we have Pat Conroy as Minister for Pacific Island Affairs and Anne Aly as Minister for International Development.

This might simply be a sign that Pat Conroy is overworked. After all, as Minister for Defence Industry, he is overseeing a massive and highly problematic scale-up of the defence budget.

But the optimist in me hopes that it might also be a sign that the Labor government is going to take aid more seriously, and think more globally, in its second term.

Yes, other countries around that world have recently cut, if not slashed, their foreign aid. But Australia was simply ahead of the curve by slashing aid a decade ago. Those cuts have never been reversed, and Australia is as a result today one of the world’s most miserly donors. We shouldn’t be! With Labor claiming to be the guardian of the fair go, one can only hope that it will increase aid in its second term, and not just for the Pacific.

Bringing a broader perspective to aid, one that looks beyond the Pacific and strategic competition with China, would be a forward step. It is incredible that in a world of unprecedented crisis Australian aid is justified not by its provision of support to relieve global suffering but by its further concentration on what is already the most aid-dependent region in the world. I was shocked to read in the most recent aid budget that Australia justified its support for the World Bank by the fact that the Bank worked in the Pacific. Talk about the tail wagging the dog.

I am a supporter of aid, but too much focus of aid on the Pacific not only distorts Australia’s priorities but is also bad for the Pacific. Australian aid has engendered a culture in the Pacific of workshops, training, much of it overseas, and t-shirts.

If aid is not the way forward for the Pacific, migration is. The first term of this Labor government was historic in its achievements for Pacific migration but, even though Labor made no new Pacific commitments going into this year’s election, there is plenty left to be done in its second term. This is especially so in a context in which the Pacific is increasingly demanding freer if not free movement within the region.

Most importantly, Labor has three years to bed down its ambitious new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV). If the Coalition had been elected it is quite possible that they would have abolished the PEV. After all, they voted against the PEV legislation. Now Labor has three years to bed it down. The PEV represents a completely new approach to migration — it is the only visa we have that is not employer-sponsored but which has an employment requirement — and it will take some time to bed down. It is definitely facing teething problems.

The key difficulty has been for offshore PEV lottery winners to get the onshore job required for them to convert that selection by lottery into an actual visa. One possible reform would be to give those selected in the annual lottery a six- or 12-month employment visa to visit Australia and find a job. Another would be to drop the work requirement altogether.

Second, Labor in its first term introduced family accompaniment for the Pacific temporary migration program (PALM), but only on a pilot basis. Progress has been glacial on this key human rights reform, and the key priority here has to be to go from pilot to mainstream. (Labor’s 2022 commitment had no mention of any pilot.)

Third, PALM itself needs to be rescued. Multi-year (long-term) PALM visa numbers are flat over the last year, and multi-month (short-term) numbers fell by 10% over the same period.

Survey data tells us that the schemes are viewed by both participants and non-participants as highly beneficial. PNG, Timor-Leste and Solomon Islands in particular all want to send a lot more workers. This simply won’t be possible if the scheme continues to be over- regulated, causing employers to continue to turn their backs on the opportunity to bring out Pacific workers to do seasonal farm work, preferring to hire from the much less regulated backpacker workforce instead.

Fourth, PALM continues to suffer from the overlapping problems of too many workers
absconding and claiming asylum. Bad employers who break migration rules — most of them
operating outside the tightly regulated PALM — need to be cracked down on and the time
taken to process asylum applications greatly reduced.

Fifth, Labor in its first term only made a nod in the direction of the critical issue of backpacker visa reform. The unions, unable to recruit backpackers, turn a blind eye to the high levels of exploitation they suffer. In June 2024, Labor set up a review of regional visa settings, including the backpacker visa. That review never concluded. But Labor should follow through on the advice of its own migration review. As the Fair Work Ombudsman has said, the “work- for-visa” link embedded in the backpacker visa (with visa extensions granted if particular types and amounts of work can be demonstrated) is broken. All backpacker visas should be issued for three years, with no limits on or incentives to work. This would not only greatly reduce workplace exploitation; it would also reverse the PALM decline.

Sixth, new initiatives should be adopted. New Zealand has just announced that anyone from the Pacific with a valid Australian work, tourist or study visa will be given entry to New Zealand. New Zealand will also increase the duration of its short-term visitor visas for the Pacific from 12 to 24 months. Australia should do the same. Australia should also support the Pacific proposal for an APEC-type business card that would allow free business travel within the region.

And there is more. Superannuation for PALM workers needs a legislative fix. Regional PALM work restrictions make little sense. And the pathbreaking Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union agreement could be replicated with other interested Pacific nations.

There is a lot to be done. So much so that I hope that, at the next election if not before, whoever is in government creates a Pacific migration portfolio and assigns a dedicated minister to it.

Written by: Stephen Howes

This is the first part of the Pacific Family Matters blog series which explores priorities for there-elected Labor government’s engagement on development issues with the Pacific Islands region. The series draws on the expertise of the Pacific Research Program, a consortium led by the Department of Pacific Affairs at the Australian National University (ANU), in partnership with ANU’s Development Policy Centre and the Lowy Institute.

Disclosure: The Pacific Research Program is an independent Pacific-focused research program that supports evidence-based policy-making in the Pacific and collaborative research relationships across the region. The PRP is co-funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the consortium partners’ parent bodies. The views are those of the author only.

This article appeared first on Devpolicy Blog (devpolicy.org), from the Development Policy Centre at The Australian National University.
Stephen Howes is Director of the Development Policy Centre and Professor of Economics at the Crawford School of Public Policy at The Australian National University.

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Cultural Couture: PNG Designers showcase talent in Fiji

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Papua New Guinean design talent are jetting off to Fiji, ready to make a vibrant statement at Fiji Fashion Week 2025.

A distinguished delegation representing PNG’s burgeoning fashion scene departed yesterday (27 May), carrying with them a rich tapestry of culture and innovation crafted by the nation’s designers.

Leading this creative charge is the iconic Florence Jaukae Kamel, globally recognized as the “Bilum Meri.”

Her participation is a powerful showcase of indigenous artistry, as her handmade bilum couture transforms traditional weaving into breathtaking high fashion. Each meticulously crafted piece celebrates the skill and knowledge of PNG women, weaving stories of heritage into contemporary designs.

Joining Florence is Incennea Minz, PNG Fashion Week’s dynamic brand ambassador.

Stepping onto the Fiji runway as a model, Incennea will embody the fusion of traditional Melanesian aesthetics with modern style, a living canvas showcasing the design vision of the nation. Her presence perfectly aligns with this year’s theme, GENESIS, representing a fresh and authentic expression of cultural identity through fashion.

Adding to the spirit of collaboration, celebrated PNG designer William Maba Bray was present at Jacksons International Airport to see the delegation off.

His support underscores the interconnectedness of the PNG fashion community, and his upcoming participation in Florence Jaukae Kamel’s Bilum Festival in Goroka later this year further highlights the ongoing exchange of creative ideas and cultural inspiration within the region.

“This is what GENESIS is all about—new beginnings, deeper connections, and stronger representation of our culture,” stated Bridgette Kassman, spokesperson for PNG Fashion Week, who is also traveling as Executive Assistant to the Managing Director, ensuring the delegation’s smooth and impactful representation.

“We are not just sending designers—we are sending ambassadors of heritage, identity, and innovation.”

The journey to Fiji was made possible thanks to the continued support of Air Niugini, the official carrier and a key partner of PNG Fashion Week, highlighting the crucial role of national collaboration in fostering international opportunities for PNG’s creative sector.

As Florence Jaukae Kamel and Incennea Minz prepare to showcase their unique visions on the Fiji runway, they carry with them the collective creativity and cultural pride of Papua New Guinea, ready to captivate and inspire the Pacific fashion world.

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Second Chance, Bright Futures: Western Province Celebrates Hundreds of Educational Triumphs

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Western Province Graduates

In a region known for its vast landscapes and tight-knit communities, a wave of educational achievement is being celebrated. Over 840 individuals in the Fly River area of Western Province have successfully advanced or graduated through the Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) program, marking a significant milestone for the province.

This achievement, made possible through a collaborative effort funded by the Sustainable Development Program (SDP) and implemented by the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF), in partnership with the Western Province Division of Education, is opening doors for people seeking a second chance at education in some of Papua New Guinea’s most remote locales.

Western Province Graduation Class

Among the many success stories, the journey of Marilyn Duwaba shines brightly.

A dedicated primary school teacher and a busy single mother of three in Kiunga, Marilyn recently celebrated a personal triumph: upgrading her Grade 12 results through FODE.

Over two decades after her initial schooling, Marilyn felt compelled to improve her GPA to meet new government standards for educators. The flexible nature of the FODE program allowed her to pursue this goal while continuing her vital work in the classroom.

Marilyn’s dedication culminated in a remarkable achievement in 2024; not only did she improve her GPA, but she was also recognized as the Dux of her class.

Reflecting on her success, Marilyn had this to say, “I was so excited that my effort had paid off. I feel that with this kind of opportunity in the community, we don’t have to stay at the same level; we can continue to advance ourselves and provide good opportunities for our families and contribute to our communities as well.”

Marilyn Duwaba at her Graduation in Western Province
Marilyn Duwaba, Grade 12 Dux Student at Western Outreach FODE (left)

Driven by her own experience, Marilyn is now encouraging others who may be hesitant to return to education.

“You don’t stop because it does not turn out right the first time,” she urged.

“If you want to achieve something then you keep going. Education does not end with a certain grade, we can keep upgrading ourselves so we can provide a better community for ourselves and our families.”

The graduation celebrations across Western Province underscored the strength of the partnerships driving this progress.

Representatives from local government, SDP, and KTF joined the festivities, including Western Provincial Education Advisor Mr. Charlie Buia, SDP Director of Education Dr. Brad Shaw, KTF CEO Dr. Genevieve Nelson, and KTF Head of Education Ms. Martha Bentley.

This initiative, fueled by the vision of SDP’s Gutpela Community Strategy 2025-2030, is forging a path towards a brighter future for Western Province.

Through the combined efforts of SDP, KTF, FODE, and the Western Provincial Division of Education, a growing number of empowered individuals are gaining the skills and qualifications needed to pursue employment and further education, building a stronger and more prosperous community for all.

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Equal Support Boosts PNG’s National Rugby League Teams

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Group Photo- L-R Kumul Rep Robert Mathias, Digcel PNG Senior VP and Cheif Sales officer Lorna McPherson, Digicel CEO Tarik Boduiaf, PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina, Santos PNG Orchids Chair Celestine Ove

Papua New Guinea’s national Rugby League teams, the Kumuls and the Orchids have received a significant boost with the renewal of sponsorship, notably featuring equal financial support for both squads.

This development promises to elevate the profile and resources available to the Orchids, bringing them on par with the traditionally more prominent Kumuls.

The move signifies a growing emphasis on gender equality within Papua New Guinean sports.

While the Kumuls have long been a source of national pride, the Orchids have consistently demonstrated passion and determination.

The equal sponsorship aims to provide the women’s team with access to improved training facilities and greater visibility, fostering the growth of women’s rugby league in the PNG.

“We are proud to stand behind our national teams, the PNG Kumuls and PNG Orchids,” said Tarik Boudiaf, the CEO of Digicel PNG.

“This support is an investment in empowerment, growth, and opportunity for all our athletes.”

Digcel PNG Senior VP and Chief Sales officer Lorna McPherson shows PNG Media the Digicel branding on the back of PNG LNG Kumul Jersey. Beside her is Digicel CEO Tarik Boduiaf.
Digcel PNG Senior VP and Chief Sales officer Lorna McPherson shows PNG Media the Digicel branding on the back of PNG LNG Kumul Jersey that is one part of the sponsorship. Beside her is Digicel CEO Tarik Boduiaf.

Rugby League holds a special place in Papua New Guinea, and this renewed commitment to both national teams underscores the importance of the sport across the country.

The equal backing is expected to inspire future generations of both male and female athletes.

For over a decade, there has been support for Rugby League at various levels, including grassroots and the Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup.

This latest development further strengthens the foundation for the sport’s continued growth and success on the international stage for both the men’s and women’s national teams.

“By sharing our support equally, we’re helping to level the playing field and provide the necessary support for our female athletes alongside their male counterparts,” said Lorna McPherson, Senior Vice President of Digicel PNG.

“We wish both the PNG Kumuls and PNG Orchids every success as they represent our nation.”

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China comes calling in debts of developing nations

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The Niue coastline and the Pacific Ocean at the Matavai Resort in Niue

Developing nations, including those in the Pacific, will pay China $A34 billion this year as Beijing comes calling for repayments on project funding.

China is now “the world’s largest single destination for developing country debt payments” and outstripping the whole of the West, says a new report shows from Australian think tank The Lowy Institute.

Under its Belt and Road Initiative, China has rapidly increased investments in infrastructure since 2013, partnering with dozens of nations primarily in the developed world.

In more recent years Beijing has changed tack, providing a heavier portion of grants – which do not need to be repaid – into its mix of development assistance.

However, with standard lending terms including the delay of payments for several years before a maturation of loans at 15-20 years, it appears crunch time has arrived for repayments.

“China’s earlier lending boom, combined with the structure of its loans, made a surge in debt servicing costs inevitable,” report author Riley Duke said.

“Because China’s Belt and Road lending spree peaked in the mid-2010s, those grace periods began expiring in the early 2020s. It was always likely to be a crunch period for developing country repayments to China.”

Mr Duke says some of the world’s poorest people are likely to bear the brunt.

“The high debt burden facing developing countries will hamper poverty reduction and slow development progress while stoking economic and political instability risks,” he said.

The analysis is incomplete, given data is only available for 54 of 120 developing countries and China does not routinely disclose funding.

Mr Duke says this means his figure of $US22 billion ($A34 billion) to be repaid in 2025 to China and its many state-controlled lending arms is likely an understatement.

It is also unclear whether China would defer debt repayments as it did during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it joined with G20 nations to provide relief.

That move was helpful at the time, according to Mr Duke, but the effect was to mount costs into a heightening of the current repayment spike.

Several countries across the Pacific, which have benefited from Chinese investment in infrastructure, are likely to be among the countries affected.

The report comes ahead of a significant summit between China and the Pacific in Xiamen, beginning on Wednesday when Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosts representatives of 11 nations.

Kiribati Prime Minister Taneti Maamau and Niue Premier Dalton Tagelagi will join with the foreign ministers of Tonga, Nauru, Micronesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Cook Islands, and representatives from Fiji and Samoa for the two-day meeting.

“There will be an in-depth exchange of views on interactions and cooperation between China and Pacific island countries (PICs) in all aspects and international and regional issues of mutual interest,” China foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.

“China highly values its ties with PICs and hopes that this meeting will help drive the implementation of the important common understandings reached between leaders of the two sides, enhance solidarity and coordination, unite efforts for development and prosperity, and galvanize an even closer community with a shared future.”

The 11 nations attending the summit make up the entire Pacific Islands Forum membership, excepting the three countries with diplomatic ties to Taiwan, the two France-aligned nations, Australia and New Zealand.

Written by: Ben McKay © Australian Associated Press

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Samoa set for election after Fiame’s budget fails

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Samoa Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa wearing a white dress standing at a podium

THE people of Samoa will go to the polls to elect a new parliament after former members of Fiame Naomi Mata’afa’s FAST party joined with opposition MPs to defeat her government’s budget.

Fiame won a groundbreaking election in 2021, ending four decades of rule by the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) and becoming the first woman head of government in Samoa.

The long-serving politician and high chief struck trouble in January when she demoted minister La’auli Leuatea Schmidt, the FAST party chairman, from cabinet after he was charged with criminal offences.

While ministers and MPs followed La’auli to the crossbench, Fiame’s government’s survived two no-confidence motions earlier this year.

Her government did not manage a third escape act, with La’auli-aligned MPs joining with the Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi-led opposition HRPP to defeat her budget.

The Samoa Observer reports the vote was 16-34, and marks the first time a government budget has failed in 40 years.

The vote is set to trigger an election inside 90 days, which would mean a polling day before late August.

Written by: Ben McKay © Australian Associated Press 2025

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K258,000 Raised at Trukai Fun Run Auction

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Top 5 Bidders, from left,International Training Institute, PNG IPA,Brands Pacific,IBS University, & Sir Brian Bell Foundation

The Port Moresby business community has stepped up in a big way to support Papua New Guinea’s athletes, raising a significant K258,000 at the Trukai Fun Run Auction held on Friday.

The event saw 17,200 Trukai Fun Run shirts sold, with all proceeds going towards funding Team PNG’s participation in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

The auction serves as a key fundraiser ahead of the annual Trukai Fun Run, this year themed “Running Through History,” celebrating PNG’s 50 years of independence through the unifying power of sport.

Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo, expressed his sincere gratitude, particularly to the major sponsor, Trukai Industries Limited, and the top five bidding organizations.

“I would like to extend my warmest gratitude towards the major sponsor, Trukai Industries Limited for their unwavering support,” said Mr. Karo.

“Your contributions will play a crucial role in this year’s Pacific Mini Games, we are grateful for your commitment towards Team PNG. Your generosity is truly inspiring and gives us the motivation to continue our efforts to provide the best possible launchpad for our Team PNG athletes.”

Echoing this appreciation, Head of Trukai Industries, Mr. Andrew Grace, acknowledged the strong commitment from the business sector.

“We are eagerly looking forward to working closely with the PNG Olympic Committee to make this year’s Trukai Fun Run another truly memorable event,” Mr. Grace stated.

He also highlighted the enduring partnership between Trukai and the PNGOC, saying, “For 25 years, the partnership between Trukai Industries and the PNG Olympic Committee has stood strong, as a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to Team PNG and the incredible unifying power of sports within our nation.”

He reminded everyone to mark their calendars for June 22nd, as the event is anticipated to be bigger, better, and even safer for everyone to participate in this year.

The funds raised will be crucial in supporting Team PNG’s journey to Palau.

Many of the purchased t-shirts will also be donated to local schools.

The success of the Port Moresby auction builds anticipation for the next auction in Lae on June 13th and the main Trukai Fun Run event scheduled for June 22nd.

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Thousands of homes damaged after deadly, record floods

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A person uses a paddleboard on a flooded street in Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Friday, May 23, 2025. (AAP Image/Lindsay Moller)

Recovery crews face a mammoth task to assess damage to tens of thousands of homes as waters recede from deadly and record-breaking floods.

An estimated 50,000 people in more than a dozen towns across the NSW Hunter and mid-north coast regions remain cut off and many emergency warnings are still in place despite most river levels falling.

Five flood-related deaths have been confirmed since the latest bout of flooding hit the state.

Efforts are under way to clean up and help the hardest-hit communities, including in Taree, Kempsey, Dungog, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, with essential supply drops delivered by boat and helicopter.

Early estimates indicated at least 10,000 properties had been damaged in the floods, the NSW State Emergency Service said on Saturday.

Crews were prioritising starting washouts and performing damage assessments in areas where floodwaters were beginning to subside, SES chief superintendent Paul McQueen said.

“We will have an increased number of volunteers out in force today to start the damage assessment process,” he said.

Before any evacuation orders were revoked, assessors needed to evaluate access and safety issues.

“This is still a dangerous situation where significant impacts to infrastructure and properties are likely to have occurred,” Mr McQueen said.

The state will face more settled conditions over the weekend after severe weather warnings were cancelled late on Friday evening.

“This is welcome news for those in clean-up and recovery operations,” Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Helen Reid said.

But as floodwaters start subsiding in some locations, other areas downstream face renewed threats.

A moderate flood warning for Tuggerah Lake, on the Central Coast, has forced a community evacuation, while there were numerous minor flood warnings in place on Saturday morning.

The Pacific Highway was closed between Coopernook and Purfleet, near Taree, due to flooding, while a section of the highway was closed at Charmhaven on the Central Coast.

Motorists are advised to avoid non-essential travel in flood-affected areas.

Farmers are also beginning to take stock of their losses after cattle were washed down rivers and many properties suffered significant damage.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns will tour flood-impacted areas on Saturday.

More than 1600 insurance claims had already been made, according to the Insurance Council of Australia.

Assistance grants of $180 per person or $900 for families are expected to roll out in the coming days and those unable to work will have access to a disaster recovery allowance from Monday.

The flood-related death toll stands at five, while the SES conducted 85 flood rescues in the 24 hours to 5am.

A man believed to be in his 80s was found inside a burnt-out vehicle in the shed of a Cooplacurripa property, about 50km northwest of Taree.

Severe weather conditions stopped emergency crews from accessing the man’s home when a concern for his welfare was raised two days earlier.

The body of a man in his late 70s was also found on Friday after his vehicle appeared to be swept off a causeway at Nana Glen, near Coffs Harbour.

Another man died at a flooded home near Taree, as did a driver west of Port Macquarie and a 60-year-old woman near Coffs Harbour.

Volunteers are focusing on getting supplies to the 50,000 people still isolated by floodwaters.

“We ask you to be patient, remain in a safe location and please don’t be tempted to drive through flood waters or go sightseeing,” Mr McQueen said.

Written by: William Ton and Samantha Lock © Australian Associated Press 2025

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Transnational Crime Unveils: Chinese Mine Boss Sentenced by Lae’s Court

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Li Dezhang, a Chinese man wearing a red shirt and black pants standing in front of a brick building holding a small parcel.

A Chinese mine manager convicted earlier this month by the Lae District court over a shooting in Lae at Eriku’s residential area was sentenced to three-years imprisonment.

Senior Magistrate, Nasaling Bingtau said Li Dezhang, the General Manager of Guancai Mining Limited, will serve three years at the Buimo Prison. Dezhang will then be deported to China after serving his term.

Li Dezhang moved to the Papua New Guinea shortly after serving a prison sentence in China for a series of violent extortions, according to Chinese legal records.

Li Dezhang, 56, was found guilty by Lae’s District Court in Morobe Province on May 1st for unlicensed possession of a firearm, unlawful discharge, and assault over a mid-April incident in which he fired a Chinese-made pistol at another Chinese citizen who had confronted him about unpaid bills.

Li had worked as a manager of Guangcai Mining Limited, which operated three unlicensed gold mines in Bulolo, Morobe Province, which had been the subject of complaints of environmental destruction from the local communities.

Earlier this month, immigration authorities and police detained 19 workers at one of the company’s mines and deported most of them after finding that they didn’t have the proper work permits, according to Lae’s police commander, Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban.

Li was responsible for bringing the illegally employed workers into the country, Kunyanban said.

Before his arrival in PNG, Li already had a criminal history in China for a series of offenses he had committed in West Africa, according to Chinese court documents.

Li was arrested in Ghana and repatriated to China in early 2020 for using violent threats to extort a casino investor in the country out of 100,000 cedi (about $7,400), as well as the kidnapping and assault of another man who owed him a debt, according to announcements from a court in Li’s home province of Guangxi.

He served just over three years in prison and was released in early 2023, court records show.

Records in a separate civil case also show that Li was successfully sued for fraud in China for failing to deliver paid-for mining equipment to clients in Ghana.

Environmental destruction from mining has long been a public concern in resource-rich PNG.

PNG Immigration Minister, John Rosso told Inside PNG and OCCRP that the raid on Gunagcai’s mine earlier this month had to be done with officers that were “handpicked to avoid compromise.”

“We cannot practice double standards,” Rosso said.

“Once they are processed, anyone breaching immigration laws will be deported immediately.”

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Vanuatu and Australia to sign new development pact

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Vanuatu’s Parliament House in Port Vila, Vanuatu, Monday, January 13, 2025. (AAP Image/Ben McKay)

A new development pact between Vanuatu and Australia is in the works, with Vanuatu’s prime minister urging Anthony Albanese to visit and sign the deal in September.

Jotham Napat has revealed discussions on the “Nakamal” agreement, taking in infrastructure planning, economic development and climate planning, are in the final stages, after meeting with Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Port Vila.

“We are hoping that we will sign this Nakamal agreement this coming September, and I’m hoping that the prime minister of Australia would fly over so that we can sign this agreement,” he said.

The agreement takes its name from the Bislama word “nakamal”, which means a traditional meeting place, such as a house, in Vanuatu.

Mr Napat said the bilateral relationship had “unshakable foundations”, a fitting phrase given Vanuatu’s attempts to rebound from December’s devastating earthquake.

Senator Wong announced $6 million towards engineering support and rebuilding schools damaged in the 7.3 magnitude tremor.

“Some 45 schools and over 100 classrooms have been damaged and we want to help rebuild them,” she said.

Australia – which has given financial aid and technical support following that disaster – is Vanuatu’s top development assistance partner by a distance.

Australia spent $US1 billion ($A1.6 billion) on projects in Vanuatu in the 15 years to 2022 according to the Lowy Institute, more than double the second-most generous nation, China, with $US449 million ($A697 million).

Senator Wong foreshadowed talks to take place on the partnership before she left on her three-nation tour of the Pacific this week, including stops in Fiji and Tonga.

There was no mention of a stalled security agreement signed between Mr Albanese’s government and a prior Vanuatu administration, headed by Ishmael Kalsakau, in late 2022.

Vanuatu has opted against ratifying that deal, with subsequent governments believing it compromises its non-aligned strategic outlook.

Senator Wong also travelled with the First Nations ambassador Justin Mohamed and met with the National Council of Chiefs.

“What I would say to the leader of Vanuatu, to the prime minister and to his cabinet, to the chiefs and to the people, is that ‘we are a steadfast partner. You can count on us’,” she said.

“You can count on us to act on climate change. You can count on us to help rebuild. You can count on us to work with you as we walk together.”

Mr Albanese already has two Pacific diplomatic engagements this September: the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinean independence, and the Pacific Islands Forum leaders’ summit in Solomon Islands.

Written by: Ben McKay © Australian Associated Press 2025

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