Australia and Fiji Strengthen Skills Partnership Through Launch of Pacific Australia Skills Programme

The Prime Minister of Australia, Honourable Anthony Albanese MP, together with Fiji’s Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, the Honourable Ro Filipe Tuisawau, officially launched the Pacific Australia Skills programme at Walu Bay, Suva on Monday 7th July 2026.

The launch marks a new chapter in the longstanding partnership between Fiji and Australia in technical and vocational education and workforce development. Pacific Australia Skills succeeds the Australian Pacific Training (APTC), Australia’s flagship investment in skills development across the Pacific. Building on APTC’s strong legacy, the new programme will create pathways to meaningful employment while supporting the region’s long-term economic resilience.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Tuisawau expressed Fiji’s sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Albanese and the Government of Australia for their enduring investment in the development of Fiji’s human capital.

Hon. Tuisawau noted that the Pacific Australia Skills programme reflected on the shared vision of empowering people through quality education and skills development. It will strengthen the workforce, expand opportunities for Fijians, and support national development priorities. He also noted that Fiji deeply value Australia’s continued partnership and its commitment to investing in the potential of its peoples.

In return, Hon. Albanese reaffirmed Australia’s steadfast commitment to Fiji and the wider Pacific, highlighting that investment in people is central to building stronger communities and more resilient economies.

The launch of Pacific Australia Skills reinforces the strong and enduring partnership between Fiji and Australia and reflects both nations shared commitment to developing a skilled workforce, creating opportunities for future generations, and fostering inclusive economic growth across the Pacific.