VANUATU AND AUSTRALIA STRENGTHEN TIES THROUGH DISASTER RECOVERY, TRADE, AND CLIMATE PARTNERSHIP

Port Vila, Vanuatu – The governments of Vanuatu and Australia have reaffirmed their strong bilateral partnership, unveiling a wide-ranging collaboration focused on disaster recovery, economic development, climate resilience, and labor cooperation.

Disaster Recovery and Infrastructure Support

In the wake of recent natural disasters, Vanuatu has developed a comprehensive Earthquake Recovery Plan aimed at rebuilding critical infrastructure, restoring livelihoods, and enhancing long-term resilience. Australia has pledged significant support, including an additional AUD $5 million to help safely rebuild damaged schools and AUD $1 million for engineering assistance. In total, Australia’s development support to Vanuatu has exceeded AUD $120 million over the past year.

Nakamal Partnership Agreement

A centerpiece of the growing cooperation is the anticipated Nakamal Partnership Agreement, a forward-looking framework that reflects both nations’ commitment to shared development goals. The agreement, expected to be signed in September, will focus on:

• Climate change adaptation
• Economic growth and infrastructure
• Governance and social policy
• Regional security and stability
• Cultural preservation and mutual respect

Climate Change and Environmental Cooperation

Australia and Vanuatu will jointly advance climate programs through regional platforms, supporting resilience and sustainable environmental practices. Australia has legislated a bold climate policy, aiming for 82% renewable energy by 2030 and urging adherence to the Paris Agreement across all sectors.

Tourism and Economic Growth

Recognizing tourism as a vital pillar of Vanuatu’s economy, both countries are working closely with the private sector to maintain and expand air connectivity. The aim is to boost tourism flows through collaborative efforts under the Nakamal framework.

Pacific Labour Mobility and Workers’ Rights

The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme remains a cornerstone of economic cooperation. Vanuatu continues to be the largest Pacific contributor of palm workers to Australia. In recent discussions, both governments emphasized the importance of:

• Ensuring legal protections and fair pay for workers
• Enforcing compliance among Australian employers
• Integrating worker welfare issues into broader partnership agreements

Australia reaffirmed that all workers from Vanuatu under the scheme must receive the same legal entitlements as domestic Australian workers. A noted reduction in worker disengagement from the scheme is seen as a positive development, aided by support systems including community groups and churches.

A Future-Oriented Partnership

As Australia and Vanuatu move toward formalizing the Nakamal Agreement, their partnership is evolving into a model of equitable, sustainable cooperation in the Pacific. The shared vision underscores national sovereignty, regional security, and inclusive economic growth — setting the stage for a stronger, more resilient Pacific future.

This summary was produced using AI tools to extract and reframe key content from a VBTC news video.