The Australian High Commission in Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to Fiji’s development by announcing a $72 million (FJD) budget support package for 2024-25. The funding aims to bolster economic reforms, enhance public financial management, and improve climate resilience.
Additionally, McDonald highlighted Australia’s support for the Vuvale Talanoa House at FLIPS, which provides modern training resources for Fiji’s 35,000+ civil servants. He noted that stronger governance leads to better public service delivery.
Strengthening Fiji’s Public Service!
— Ewen McDonald
Australia is proud to support the Vuvale Talanoa House at FLIPS—enhancing training for Fiji’s 35,000+ civil servants with modern resources. Stronger governance means better service for all! #VuvalePartnership pic.twitter.com/RR9bwFKkOs(@AusHCFJ) March 7, 2025
Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald, signed the agreement with Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, at Ro Lalabalavu House. The initiative is part of the enduring Vuvale Partnership, which continues to strengthen governance and essential services for Fijians.
— Ewen McDonald
Prof. Prasad expressed gratitude for Australia’s ongoing support, highlighting the importance of the funding in key sectors such as education, healthcare, renewable energy, and economic reforms.
“With FJD72 million in grant budget support for 2024-25, we’re investing in schools, healthcare, renewable energy, and economic reforms. A stronger Vuvale Partnership means a brighter future for Fiji.”
The Deputy Prime Minister underscored that this budget support is contingent upon Fiji achieving a mutually agreed set of reform actions, particularly in public financial management. He emphasised that these reforms will enhance accountability, strengthen economic policies, and improve climate resilience.
Grateful for Australia's continued support!
— Professor Biman Prasad DPM, Fiji (@bimanprasad) March 6, 2025
Prof. Prasad also noted that Fiji has accessed close to $3 billion in blended financing from development partners over the past six years. These funds have facilitated comprehensive governance reforms, improved trade policies, strengthened state-owned enterprises, and promoted private sector-led growth.
Outgoing High Commissioner McDonald stated that independent evaluations have confirmed the effectiveness of Australia’s financial support.
“The evaluation found that Australia’s budget support has promoted key reforms to strengthen government budgeting and public financial management in Fiji, as well as supporting long-term economic growth through reforms to the business environment and financial sector.”
This latest funding builds on Australia’s longstanding commitment to Fiji’s development, which has included over $580 million in aid over the past five years.
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