Australian Minister updates
For the latest news from the Australian Prime Minister and Portfolio ministers:
- Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon. Anthony Albanese MP
- Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon. Penny Wong
SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
CHRIS BOWEN MP
MINISTER FOR CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENERGY
MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday 27 January, 2026
Today, we welcome Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manele, Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, Palaun President Whipps and the Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Baron Waqa to Australia for a meeting of the PIF Troika in Brisbane.
The Albanese Labor Government will strengthen our commitment to backing Pacific-led climate solutions by investing a further $550 million for the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).
At the invitation of the PIF Secretariat, Minister Bowen will join the PIF Troika, consisting of the current PIF Chair (Solomon Islands), incoming Chair (Palau) and outgoing Chair (Tonga), to discuss progress on arrangements for a special pre-COP hosted in the Pacific.
Minister Bowen will sign a Memorandum of Understanding on a Renewable Energy and Climate Partnership with Tonga, and meet with President Whipps to discuss climate solutions and progress of the Palau-Australia Renewable Energy Partnership.
Minister Wong will welcome Lord Prime Minister Fakafanua for his first visit to Australia since his election as Prime Minister in December 2025, and since Australia and Tonga committed to elevate our partnership through the Kaume’a Ofi agreement.
Minister Wong will also meet with Prime Minister Manele to discuss Australia’s commitment to our economic, development and security partnership with Solomon Islands.
In discussions with President Whipps, Minister Wong will confirm Australia’s support for Palau to deliver a successful and impactful PIF Leaders meeting later this year.
The AIFFP, Australia’s major critical infrastructure provider, is already delivering 58 projects across 11 countries, including ports, airports, renewable energy infrastructure and undersea cables. For more information visit: The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP)
Quotes attributable to Foreign Minister Penny Wong:
“Australia is backing Pacific-led climate solutions – investing in the Pacific Resilience Facility and in new energy partnerships.
“At a time of major global uncertainty, Australia’s additional $550 million investment will deliver further critical infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on digital infrastructure development.
“As a founding member of the PIF, Australia is a reliable partner for the Pacific, working to shape a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.”
Quotes attributable to Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen
“We are bringing the world to the Pacific to see climate impacts and solutions through the COP process.
“Climate action remains the greatest lever to protect the livelihoods, security and wellbeing of the people of the Pacific.
“Today Australia and Tonga strengthened our collaboration on renewable energy and climate action, delivering on Pacific priorities to cut emissions while cutting the cost of energy.”
Media note: Imagery will be available via: FM Pacific Island Forum Troika meetings - FotoWeb
Media Contact:
Taylah Hill (Minister Wong): +61 403 204 386
Connor Wherrett (Minister Bowen): +61 499 972 259
Australian High Commission Media
Recent Press Releases
Monday, 24th August 2026.
Australia announces AUD 20 million investment to advance gender equality, disability equity and social inclusion in Tonga
Australia has announced a new AUD 20 million investment from 2026 to 2029 to support locally led gender equality, disability equity and social inclusion outcomes in Tonga.
The investment was announced by Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, Michelle O’Byrne, during her first visit to Tonga, where she joined Minister for Internal Affairs Hon. Fane Fituafe in engagements across Vavaʻu and Tongatapu focused on women’s leadership, participation and inclusion.
The new investment builds on the close partnership between Tonga and Australia and supports priorities led by the Government of Tonga, including as outlined in the Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality Tonga (WEGET III) Policy, the National Disability Inclusive Development Policy and the recent National Women’s Fono.
The portfolio reflects Australia’s commitment to working alongside the Government of Tonga, civil society and communities to support Tongan-led priorities and practical, locally led solutions.
Quotes attributable to Ambassador O’Byrne
“Tonga and Australia are Kaumeʻa Ofi – close friends. Our partnership is built on decades of cooperation, deep people-to-people connections and shared values.”
“Tonga and Australia share a commitment to advancing gender equality, disability equity and rights, and social inclusion. Through this investment, Australia is proud to work alongside government, civil society and communities to support Tongan-led priorities, because development is strongest when it is locally led.”
“Inclusive societies are stronger societies. When women and men can participate equally, when people with disability can contribute fully, and when communities are free from violence, countries are more resilient, prosperous and secure.”
The investment will support the implementation of Tonga’s national gender equality and disability inclusion policies through expanded partnerships with the Ministry for Internal Affairs and civil society organisations and the continuation of Australia’s flagship Families Free of Violence initiative.
Tuesday 18th August 2026.
Minister Fituafe welcomes Australia's Ambassador for Gender Equality to Tonga
Minister for Internal Affairs, Hon. Fane Fotu Fituafe, welcomes Australia's Ambassador for Gender Equality, Michelle O'Byrne, to Tonga from 18 to 22 August for a joint program in Vava’u and Tongatapu focussed on women’s leadership.
The visit reflects the close partnership between Tonga and Australia and a shared commitment to supporting inclusive, resilient and prosperous communities. It follows the launch of the Government of Tonga's Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality Tonga Policy and the recent National Women's Fono, which brought together women from across the Kingdom to identify priorities for Tonga's future.
During the visit, Minister Fituafe and Ambassador O'Byrne will meet women leaders, civil society organisations, youth, Australia Awards alumni and government partners. In Vava'u, they will meet the Vava'u Women's Fono Committee and attend the launch of a civic education initiative delivered by Ma'a Fafine mo e Famili with Australian support.
In Tongatapu, the program will include engagements with current and emerging women leaders, former political candidates, school students and stakeholders working to advance women's leadership, disability inclusion and social inclusion. Ambassador O'Byrne will also participate in a Women, Peace and Security roundtable with Tonga Police, His Majesty's Armed Forces and civil society representatives.
The visit will conclude with a reception bringing together Tonga's leading gender equality, disability and social inclusion partners, where the Ambassador will announce a significant new Australian investment supporting locally led development outcomes in Tonga.
Quotes attributable to Minister Fituafe:
“I am pleased to welcome Ambassador O'Byrne to Tonga. Over the past six months, we have built on a partnership that reflects the Kaume'a Ofi partnership between our two nations. We are grateful for the continued support of the Australian Government and I look forward to continuing our discussions on women’s leadership and opportunities for all Tongans.”
Quotes attributable to Ambassador O’Byrne: Ambassador O’Byrne said the visit highlights Australia's commitment to working alongside government, civil society and communities to support Tonga's priorities.
“I am looking forward to learning from Tongan women and leaders, celebrating the progress being made, and exploring how Australia can continue to support locally led efforts that strengthen equality and inclusion."
As Australia's Ambassador for Gender Equality, Ms O'Byrne represents Australia internationally on the rights of women and girls, with a particular focus on the Pacific and Southeast Asia. Appointed in 2025, she previously served for almost two decades in Australia's federal and subnational parliaments, including as Speaker, Deputy Leader of the Tasmanian Labor Party, and Minister responsible for women and the prevention of family violence.
Recent Speeches
Ms Michelle O'Bryne - Ambassador for Gender Equality
Date: 21 August, 2026.
Honourable Minister Fituafe, Honourable Minister Sivoki, High Commissioner, distinguished guests, partners and friends,
Mālō e lelei. It is a privilege to be here this evening. In the spirit of saving the best until last, I am delighted to spend my final evening in Tonga with the people and organisations working every day to advance gender equality, disability equity and rights and social inclusion. And reflecting the joy from the engagements I’ve had in the Kingdom of Tonga this week, I’m appropriately wearing the Kei Kei gifted to me by Ma’a’ Fafine Moe Famili in Vava’u and earrings from the Crown Princess which are of the Heilala.On that note, I want to being by quoting my dear friend the Honourable Minister Fituafe, who at the recent PIF Women Leaders Meeting said:
In Tonga, the Heilala is our treasured national flower adorned by royalty and cherished for its beauty, delicacy, and fragrance. Yet bringing that flower to bloom requires great care, patience, and time. As I reflect on the nurturing of the young Heilala, I am reminded of our journey of advancing Gender Equality and Social Inclusion across the Pacific and the tireless commitment of our sovereign nations. Reaching this point has taken years of sustained effort and unwavering commitment and while we have come far, much works still lies ahead. But we do not walk this path alone. We walk it together.
This is my first visit to Tonga, and I have been struck by the strength of the relationship between our two countries. Tonga and Australia are Kaume'a Ofi – close friends. Our partnership is built on decades of cooperation, deep people-to-people connections, shared values and growing trust. That friendship is reflected in the more than 40,000 Tongans living, studying and working in Australia, in our family, church, sporting and education links, and in the partnerships represented in this room.
In fact, I have some old friends in the room, and they are not just from the High Commission. CEO of the Ministry for Internal Affairs, Joey from the Tonga Leitis Association, and Rhema from LATA – whom I have met at various forums around the world including at the Commission on the Status of Women in New York and Women Deliver in Melbourne. Tonga and Australia share a commitment to advancing gender equality, disability equity and rights, and social inclusion – and we are proud to work alongside government, civil society, organisations of people with disability and community leaders to support Tongan-led priorities and create opportunities for all people to participate fully in the social, economic and public life of the nation.
Australia believes development is strongest when it is locally led. The people, communities and institutions closest to the challenges are also closest to the solutions. Our role is not to direct change, but to be a trusted partner, bringing long-term investment, expertise and support behind the priorities that Tonga sets for itself. That approach is at the heart of our development partnership and the spirit of Kaume'a Ofi. Tonight, I have a great opportunity, borne of all of your work, and our strong relationship and programs, I am pleased to announce that Australia will invest AUD 20 million over the next four years to support locally led gender equality, disability equity and rights and social inclusion in Tonga.
This investment builds on existing partnerships with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, women's rights organisations, organisations of people with disability and civil society, and continues support for flagship initiatives such as the Families Free of Violence program. The investment focuses on three priorities:
- Strengthening the capacity of government and civil society organisations to deliver on their own goals through core funding and capacity-building support.
- Expanding locally led community awareness and outreach, including in the outer islands.
- Improving access to inclusive, survivor-centred services for those experiencing violence and exclusion.
Because inclusive societies are stronger societies. When women and men participate equally, when people with disability can contribute fully, and when communities are free from violence, countries are more resilient, prosperous and secure. Advancing gender equality is ultimately about strengthening families, communities and the nation. As I have learnt this week, which Is Tongan language week, it reflects values that are deeply important in Tonga: fakaʻapaʻapa, respect for one another; fetokoniʻaki, supporting one another through challenges and opportunities; loto tō, humility and mutual understanding; and vā, the relationships that connect families, communities and society.
These values remind us that when all people can contribute their talents and leadership, everyone benefits. A focus of my time in Tonga has been women's leadership and the opportunities to strengthen women's participation in decision-making. What I have observed is that Tongan women are already leaders. They lead in families, churches, communities, schools, businesses and public life. These contributions are longstanding, respected and central to Tongan society. The challenge before all of us is ensuring those skills, experiences and perspectives are reflected wherever decisions are made. That is why I want to acknowledge the leadership of Honourable Minister Fituafe.
Minister, your leadership has helped create momentum on gender equality, disability inclusion and social inclusion at an important moment for Tonga. Your commitment is widely recognised. Progress is never the work of one person, but it does require leaders who are willing to listen, bring people together and keep moving forward. Your leadership has done exactly that. And there are encouraging signs of progress.
The recent National Women's Fono was a powerful example. More than 5,000 women contributed to one of the most extensive consultations ever undertaken with women in the Kingdom, helping shape a Platform for Action that reflects women's priorities for their families, communities and country. That matters because development is strongest when the people most affected by decisions are part of shaping them.
I also want to recognise the civil society organisations represented here tonight. Australia believes that strong civil society organisations are essential partners in development. Whether you are providing services, advocating for change, supporting survivors, mentoring young people or creating opportunities in communities across Tonga, your work is making a tangible difference. Australia is proud to stand alongside you.
So tonight, as we begin this new chapter in Australia's GEDSI partnership with Tonga, I want to thank each of you for your leadership, your service and your commitment to your communities. Australia is here for the long term. We are here as close friends, as members of the Pacific family, and as partners in the belief that Tonga's future is strongest when every person has the opportunity to contribute, participate and succeed.
Mālō 'aupito
H.E. Brek Batley's speech on the occasion of the 200th Anniversary of Christianity and the 102nd Free Wesleyan Church Conference
Event: Choral Night with Development Partners
Date: 29 June, Centenary Church-Nuku'alofa
The Church in International Collaboration and Connection
Mālo ē hiva mālie. ʻOku ou tui ko e mana ʻo e tau ʻe ua ngeau kuohili ki Tongani mo e Pasifiki.
Fakafou ʻi he talēniti ʻo e mūsika mo e hiva himi, ʻoku makehe hono fai ʻe he kakai Tonga.
Ka ʻoku ou vakai ʻoku langa ai ʻe Tonga ha fehokotaki mālohi, fakalaumālie mo hēvani.
(Translation: Thank you for your wonderful performance. I am convinced that 200 years ago, there was a quiet miracle in Tonga and the Pacific. The heavens opened up and the Angels gave their divine voices and musical talents to the Tongan people. And now, with this special gift of music and hymn, the Tongan people have built a spiritual bridge to heaven.)
How blessed we are this evening, united in solidarity across the churches, to celebrate 200 years of Christianity in Tonga, among some of the best musicians and choristers in the world. This is indeed a bridge to heaven here tonight. Two hundred years is no small milestone. It speaks to devotion carried across seas and across generations, growing stronger with every challenge, and with every dream. I am honoured to join you in celebrating this moment – one that also reminds us of the deep and enduring Christian ties Tonga has across the world, especially Australia, from where so many of the missionaries came and from where the roots of our strong partnership were formed.
Tonight, I pay my respects to those early missionaries, as well as their partners who sacrificed so much and often dedicated themselves as nurses, teachers and translators – Mary was the wife of Reverend Walter Lawry, Sarah was the wife of Reverend John Thomas, and another Mary was the wife of Reverend John Hutchinson, and Elizabeth was Shirley Baker’s wife. These were family units that came here. And I honour the hundreds of missionaries and their partners that followed, so many from Australia, serving God and helping to build Tonga into the strong, confident, caring, friendly - and blessed - country that it is. What a privilege it has been to meet some of you here this week and hear your stories. You have played such an important role. Thank you.
As you know too well, education became one of the strongest expressions of this new faith, a vision of King George Tupou I. I pay my respects to Dr James Moulton and his wife Emma, who of course helped found Tupou College, and to all the visiting Methodist educators and families who followed in his large footsteps. These pioneers set up partnerships that continue to this day, some of the longest and strongest in the Pacific. We welcome these bonds of faith in our schools, with our kids, to help shape the next generation to be one of faith and love. Tonga’s faith connections are wide, including America, New Zealand and across the Pacific. It makes me so happy to see the Tongan diaspora and church leaders from around the world here in Nuku’alofa. The Tongan Māfana is everywhere. But the story of Australia and Tonga and our faith connections has never been one-directional. It is a story of fetokoni‘aki - always supporting one another. It is a story of tauhi vā - carefully nurturing the relationships between us. And it is grounded in ‘ofa – along with care, duty and responsibility.
Let me thank all the Tongans in Australia, the church groups, the choir groups, and the charities for their work and leadership. And a warm welcome to the President of the Uniting Church in Australia, Reverend Charissa Suli – the first Tongan to ever hold that role and Rev Salesi from Melbourne and Rev Mata from Sydney. Let me also thank the Tongan missionaries who travelled to the Northern Territory, among other parts of the Pacific region, and shared and strengthened our own spiritual journey. Rev Dr Kioa, you noted that international development is the theme for tonight. Our development partnership with Tonga is comprehensive, as is New Zealand’s. We work side by side with Tonga in so many areas. But importantly, this pillar of our partnership is just that - it is a part of the relationship, it does not solely define us.
We always apply principles in our development assistance
- Our work is always at the request of the Government or the community
- It must lead to long-term and sustainable change
- It must be in partnership, with Tonga always leading
- It must help everyone - from old to young, women to men, and abled and the less abled. It must also assist every island.
- And it must always be designed and delivered with Pacific unity in mind - we are stronger together.
For many international partners, we often look to support momentum. Momentum - often through strong local leadership - can bring positive change. And we recognise the power of the diaspora and faith in our development work, including through the incredible generosity of the diaspora after crises. We welcome doing more together. But tonight, we are also reminded of the power of music. Faith is carried in our close partnership so often through song. It lives in hiva fakalotu, hymns of faith. Last year in Sydney, the Tongan choir from Brisbane sang the roof off the Uniting Church in Australia in the presence of Their Majesties. It was a true honour, marking our Kaume’a Ofi partnership, and a beautiful expression of our intertwined stories. There was singing in every hotel lobby where they stayed. And of course, many football teams have been mesmerised and intimidated by the power of Tongan crowds singing hymns at football games. I know in the World Cup for Rugby League in Sydney in November, Tonga will carry a secret weapon with them. These hymns are more than just music. They are a living archive of the Tongan language, they hold cultural heritage, scripture, history, joy and hope, all bound together in harmony.
The musical talent here in Tonga is undeniable. And Australia believes in supporting talent and commitment. Our Deputy High Commissioner travelled to Niua Toputapu a year or so ago and was captured by the angelic voice of a young girl in the church and school. Mele was her name. We sent her to Australia to practise with the Gondwana National Choir. We want to support every kid in Tonga with opportunity, to let them shine, but they always have to do the hard work. As we reflect on 200 years of Christianity in Tonga tonight, we honour those who came before us. The choirs who sing tonight, the parents and grandparents who taught them, those who composed them, the musicians who learned them, and the young people who will carry them forward. All of you are preserving culture, telling stories, energising our spirit, and uniting us. May Tonga’s voice in leadership, service, education and song, continue to resonate across the entire Pacific.
Talamonu atu. May God bless Tonga.
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