Australian High Commission-Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat
Joint Statement

Australia Provides $9m to Forum

The Government of Australia has provided $9 million to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat to support its core budget and priority programs.

"On behalf of the Forum I sincerely thank Australia for its continued support," said Forum Secretary General, Greg Urwin. "This latest contribution is another vote of confidence in the Forum Secretariat's efforts to implement the decisions by Forum Leaders," Mr Urwin said.

The Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed by the Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ms Jennifer Rawson and Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Mr Greg Urwin is a continuation of a series of triennial arrangements governing the Australian Government's contributions to the Secretariat. Ms Rawson said the funding reflects Australia's long standing commitment to the Pacific region.

The Forum Secretariat is the region's key policy organisation. The funds will be used to support the Secretariat's strategic objectives as outlined in its Corporate Plan. Ms Rawson said support for the Secretariat's role in guiding the implementation of the Pacific Plan for strengthening regional cooperation and integration is an important part of Australia's contribution.

The funds include Australia's member country contribution to the Secretariat's budget that covers operational costs. Australia provides about one third of this amount, New Zealand another third and the remaining third is split among the 14 Forum Island Countries.

Australia's contribution will enable the Secretariat to assist Forum Island Countries address priority areas such as increasing trade and investment, improving service delivery, improving natural resource management and maintaining law and order.

20 December 2005