Australia Strengthens Support for Pacific Farmers in Climate Fight
By Tonga Independent News | Nuku‘alofa, 26 May 2025
Australia has announced a significant new investment of AUD 3 million to support climate and disaster resilience for farmers across the Pacific, reaffirming its commitment to Pacific-led agricultural solutions.
The announcement was made at a high-profile side event held during the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) in Nuku‘alofa. Themed “Partnering with Farmer Organisations for Greater Impact”, the event brought together regional leaders, development partners, and representatives from over ten countries to spotlight the role of farmer organisations in building sustainable and resilient agriculture.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Tonga, His Excellency Brek Batley, said the new funding would support the second phase of the Climate Resilient Farming in Pacific Islands program, a regional initiative coordinated by Pacific Farmer Organisations (PFO). The PFO network spans 30 farmer organisations across 14 Pacific Island countries and represents more than 100,000 smallholder farmers.
“Locally tailored climate solutions are essential for a prosperous, resilient and inclusive agriculture sector across the Pacific,” said Mr Batley. “Through this program, Australia is investing in the strength of farmers to address a critical challenge to their livelihoods and wellbeing.”
Since its launch, the program has already reached 16,800 farmers in seven countries, including Tonga, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, and Vanuatu. Initial funding of AUD 1 million in 2024 helped support locally driven climate adaptation planning and on-farm solutions.
The Nuku‘alofa side event featured Lord Fakafanua, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, as Chief Guest, alongside speakers such as Hon. Sinaitakala Tu’itahi, Minister for Internal Affairs; Dr Andrew Tukana of Fiji; David Jenkison Tibon of the Marshall Islands; Luke Simmons from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT); and IFAD’s Pacific Country Director, Candra Samekto.
Executive Director of PFO, Mr Kyle Stice, said Australia’s continued investment demonstrates the importance of grassroots leadership in the face of climate change.
“This commitment from Australia acknowledges the need for local solutions by local people. While Pacific farmers are victims of climate change, they also hold many of the solutions—rooted in traditional knowledge and innovation,” Mr Stice said.
Agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for more than 70 percent of Pacific Islanders but is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related threats. The initiative, supported by IFAD, the European Union, and DFAT, aims to strengthen resilience while addressing food security, malnutrition, and gender inequality.
Mr Stice added, “Farmer organisations are no longer on the sidelines of agricultural development in the Pacific—they are at the centre, shaping solutions and driving impact.”
As climate extremes continue to impact livelihoods and ecosystems, the renewed partnership underscores a shared regional commitment to empowering local farmers and building a more resilient future.
