The security, stability and prosperity of the Pacific is vital to Australia’s future, and to our own national security.  That’s why we’re investing in a Pacific-led policing initiative to strengthen policing capability and coordination in our region.

Pacific leaders endorsed the Pacific Policing Initiative today in Tonga. Australia will provide substantial, long-term support to ensure this initiative succeeds.

It will mean more integrated police forces, more stable and enduring partnerships, serving the interests of Australia and our Pacific neighbours.

Australia and Tonga have a longstanding defence partnership built on our shared history. An honour to visit the Cenotaph at dawn with US Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell Campbell to lay a wreath commemorating those Tongans who fought bravely in WWl, WWll and other conflicts.

Today is a special day, marking the entry into force of the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union. It’s a high level diplomatic agreement that brings our two countries closer than ever before.

Climate change poses unique threats to small island states in the Pacific. And this world-first union means Australia recognises that Tuvalu’s statehood will continue, even in the face of the worst climate impacts.

In the first year, up to 280 Tuvaluans will have the choice to come to Australia to visit, live, work and study. And in the event of major natural disasters, pandemics or military aggression, Australia will be there at Tuvalu’s request.

As Pacific countries, our security interests are intertwined. And under this union we commit to work together on security and defence arrangements in an enduring partnership.

Rugby has long brought Samoa & Australia together, as competitors on the field, & great friends off it. Australia is proud to partner with Rugby Australia and Lakapi Samoa through #PacificAusSports to support a historic women’s match between Manusina and Australia A in Apia on Sep 16.