In a heartfelt message of solidarity, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has reassured the Pacific Islands that their tariff-free access to Australian markets will remain untouched — even as many in the region face rising economic pressure from global aid cuts and U.S. tariffs.
Speaking warmly from the Pacific Islands Forum headquarters in Suva on Tuesday, Wong emphasized that Australia remains a dependable friend in uncertain times. “For over 40 years, tariff-free access to Australia has supported jobs and livelihoods across the Pacific,” she said. “I want to make it clear today — that’s not going to change.”
This promise comes just months after the U.S. slapped steep tariffs on some Pacific nations — 32% on Fijian exports like bottled water, sugar, and fish; 22% on Vanuatu; and 30% on tiny Nauru, home to just 11,000 people.
Wong’s remarks, her first major speech abroad since the Labor government’s re-election, underscored a growing urgency: the Pacific is caught in the crosscurrents of global shifts — from the climate crisis to geopolitical tensions and reduced international aid.
“The Pacific is facing growing challenges,” she said. “That’s why we’ve made a conscious decision: 75 cents of every Australian development dollar will now be invested in this region.”
Australia, already the Pacific’s largest aid donor, is increasing its support with a record A$2.1 billion in development assistance. Wong’s visit — which also includes stops in Vanuatu and Tonga — aims to reaffirm Australia’s commitment not just as a donor, but as a partner walking shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of the Pacific.
While China continues to expand its influence through policing and infrastructure offers, Wong’s message was clear: Australia sees the Pacific not as a strategic pawn, but as part of a shared home — and it’s standing by its neighbours.
