Fish farming in PNG

A UNSW Sydney researcher has received $2.6 million in funding to expand fish farming and its positive social impact in Papua New Guinea.

Renewing police connections in the Pacific

Australia should invest in strengthening its support and connections with policing in the Pacific to improve social stability on troubled islands and prevent China offering to fill a security void to pursue its own expansionist agenda.

Boosting women’s representation in Pacific politics

Independent states in the Pacific region have the lowest levels of women’s political representation in the world and, despite isolated bright spots, more action across the region is required.

Planning for the Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands’ security environment is stable for now, and the Pacific Games may proceed there in November without a hitch, but Australia’s prior preparation and scenario planning will help cope with any potential emergency.

Building trust in US–Pacific Islands relations

Washington must prioritise gaining the trust of the Pacific Island countries to ensure meaningful commitment to the region — without Beijing’s initiatives being the key motivation for cooperation.

A fresh start with the Solomon Islands?

Australia has an opportunity to approach the issue of security with a broader lens that includes more groups in the Pacific through greater transparency and engagement.

Climate impacts in the Pacific

Many communities in the Pacific are increasingly feeling the impacts of climate change on livelihoods, food security and health but the impact on migration is less clear.

Digital transformation in Timor-Leste

Australia’s support for Timor-Leste’s digital transformation is a valuable investment in the region’s future.

Development and defence

22 of Australia’s 26 nearest neighbours are developing countries, and so an effective development program is key to building regional resilience, alongside a resolute stand on defence.

Both sides now

Two studies, the 2023 Lowy Institute Poll and a 2020 Whitlam Institute report, provide interesting insights on two interrelated issues — how Australians perceive their country’s role in the Pacific, and how Pacific Islanders view Australia in relation to development and diplomacy in the region.

Australia’s new aid ambition

Australia’s new approach to aid in the Pacific will emphasise the importance of local employment in infrastructure projects in contrast to China’s approach of importing Chinese workers to build a more prosperous region.

Eyes on the ocean

A range of advanced but lower cost technologies can help Australia and its allies informed about shipping movements, security threats and illegal activities in the South Pacific.