The Australian Government has committed an additional FJ$72 million (AU$50 million) in budget support to Fiji for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
The agreement was signed by Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad and the outgoing Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald recently.
The grant, a key pillar of the ‘Vuvale Partnership’ between the two nations, will help Fiji strengthen its public financial management, promote economic reforms, and build climate and social resilience.
This funding follows nearly FJ$456 million in grants over the past five years, which have helped buffer Fiji’s economy against challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Prasad emphasised the importance of Australia’s funding in facilitating vital reforms that will shape Fiji’s economic trajectory. “This support is crucial in helping us implement reforms that will improve the efficiency of our public financial management, ensure sustainable growth, and provide services to our most vulnerable populations,” he stated.
Australia’s support will enable Fiji to access vital resources for essential projects, including public health, education, and climate change initiatives.
“We are proud to be Fiji’s largest development partner and to work together on building a more resilient and prosperous future,” said McDonald.
This latest round of funding adds to Australia’s previous investments, which include over FJ$280 million in new initiatives such as social infrastructure upgrades and expanding renewable energy access.
