Australia gives Fiji $86.6M for Budget Support Funding

The Australian government has provided $86.6 million to Fiji for Budget Support Funding.

While speaking at the signing of the Direct Funding Arrangement, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad says this support will help the government sustainably finance its development ambitions including infrastructure, health, education, climate change, and services.

The Deputy Prime Minister says this fund has enabled the government to secure a total budget support funding of almost more than half a billion dollars, about 542 million dollars, comprising of concessional loans and grants which are contributing to more effective and accountable public financial management.

He says this also support the two government with the aim to broaden the partnership between the two governments under the Vuvale Partnership program.

The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged the Australian government for their support and for ensuring that the Vuvale Partnership grows stronger and achieves common goals.

Australian High Commissioner to Fiji Ewen McDonald says the budget support is very important as it is essential in helping the government meet its fiscal priorities and strategy.

McDonald says this commitment is a fund to help Fiji navigate its economic and health crises.

The High Commissioner has also highlighted that in the next financial year, Australia will increase its funding to Fiji by 40 percent.

McDonald says they are now working closely with the government regarding the CWM Hospital to deliver the infrastructure master plan and that the company leading the work is expected to be announced in the next few weeks.

He adds this demonstrates a close partnership and trust between Australia and Fiji.