East Micronesia Cable’s six partner governments meet in Japan as project enters final months
Senior representatives from Australia, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kiribati, Nauru, Japan and the United States came together in Japan this week to attend the East Micronesia Cable Project Executive Board meeting.
Solar partnership energising Solomon Islands’ remote East Are’are community hub
The solar “hub” at Takataka Cultural Centre in Solomon Islands’ Malaita province is now installed and energised, a major milestone for the Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnership between Superfly Limited, Mai-Ma’asina Green Belt (MMGB), Save the Children Solomon Islands and the Australian Government.
Australia backs major upgrade of Kimbe Port through AIFFP
Kimbe Port in Papua New Guinea’s West New Britain Province is set for a significant upgrade, with a PGK80 million contract awarded to local firm Global Construction Ltd to deliver critical land side upgrades.
New off-grid solar system powering up hospital services in Vanuatu’s remote Torba province
Last week, one of Vanuatu’s first REnew Pacific projects, led by Respond Global, achieved its second major milestone in record speed, installing a new 15kW off-grid solar system at Quatvaes Hospital, Torba.
From sea to clinic: Vanuatu’s first REnew Pacific projects already delivering impact
One of Vanuatu’s first REnew Pacific projects, led by Respond Global, has already begun installing the first of 20 new solar power systems in off-grid health facilities across the country, less than a month since launching.
Solar power transforms learning for primary school students on Fiji’s remote Rabi Island
On the remote Rabi Island in Fiji, Buakonikai Primary School is undergoing a transformation that is reshaping the future of its 115 students.
Celebrating Girls in ICT Day – “Your perspectives matter, and your voice is needed”
Australia has proudly invested over AUD 350 million towards secure, resilient and reliable connectivity for communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
This Girls in ICT Day, we invited CEO Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation, Tenanoia Simona, to share her thoughts on this year’s theme ‘Girls in ICT for inclusive digital transformation’ and Australia and partners’ investment in the Tuvalu Vaka Cable.
REnew Pacific’s first clean energy projects in Vanuatu to deliver improved water, healthcare and education services for 84,000 people
Over 84,000 people across Vanuatu’s remote off-grid communities will soon have better access to water, healthcare or education services, thanks to the country’s first two REnew Pacific projects, announced today.
Women in remote Vanuatu community taking charge of their solar power
Sixty households in Vanuatu’s remote Lawital village now have access to solar power, thanks to an AIFFP partnership between the Australian Government, ActionAid Vanuatu, PowerWells and the Women I TokTok Together (WITTT) Network.
Looking to partner on a REnew Pacific off-grid renewable energy project?
Join the upcoming REnew Pacific online partnership networking session on 7 April!
Australia invests in Fiji’s maritime future with new shipbuilding facility
Australia is working closely with Fiji to rebuild its shipbuilding and repair industry, bringing new job opportunities and boosting the local economy.
Remote Papua New Guinea school powers up better learning outcomes with new solar mini-grid
Over 200 students from Papua New Guinea’s remote Kokoda College can now benefit from reliable, renewable energy with the launch of their new solar mini-grid this week.
First East Micronesia Cable landing station installed in Pohnpei ahead of 2025 cable completion
Faster, high quality and more reliable internet is one step closer for Pacific communities, with the first of four landing stations for the East Micronesia Cable installed last month.
Breaking ground and barriers: Tongan women build more than a port
This International Women’s Day, Australia is proud to stand with Tongan women who are quite literally breaking new ground.
Women power change in Rabi
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, real change is happening in remote communities across Fiji, where women are leading the way in renewable energy and young girls are being given new opportunities to learn.
First REnew Pacific project to benefit 81,000+ in remote Solomon Islands communities
The Australian Government has today announced its first REnew Pacific project in Solomon Islands, set to benefit over 81,000 people by providing clean, renewable energy to power healthcare, education and essential services.
REnew Pacific launches call for proposals to deliver off-grid renewable energy solutions across the Pacific and Timor-Leste
The Australian Government's new $75 million REnew Pacific program is now open for grant proposals for locally-led projects that will provide off-grid renewable energy solutions for rural and remote communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
Australia supports Fiji’s rural electrification
Australia is stepping up its commitment to supporting rural electrification in Fiji’s remote islands, investing AUD8.25 million into the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF), the fund’s largest investment to date.
REnew Pacific grants open soon
REnew Pacific, the Australian Government’s $75 million initiative to bring off-grid renewable energy solutions to rural and remote communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste, is launching its first Call for Proposals next month.
Australia lights the way for women in science
Australia is empowering Fijian women and girls in science to break barriers by enhancing their capacity and supporting employment and leadership opportunities in renewable energy.
Australia backs major upgrade to Papua New Guinea’s Kimbe Port
Australia through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is providing the Government of PNG with a AUD95.7 million loan to upgrade Kimbe Port in West New Britain Province.
AIFFP Releases Annual Update for FY23-24
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is pleased to announce the release of the AIFFP Annual Update for FY 2023-24, providing a comprehensive overview of the AIFFP’s activities, achievements, and impact.
Tuvalu Vaka cable lands in Funafuti
Tuvalu Vaka cable has landed in Funafuti, marking a major milestone in delivering Tuvalu’s first undersea telecommunications cable. Tuvalu Vaka cable will connect Funafuti to the Bulikula cable system.
Tuvalu breaks ground on first undersea telecommunications cable
The AIFFP with Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation (TTC) marked a significant milestone on 12 November, launching the land-based works for the Tuvalu Vaka cable project, Tuvalu’s first international undersea cable connection.
Tina River Hydro powers Solomon Islands' future
Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), is at the forefront of driving renewable energy solutions in the Pacific, including Solomon Islands.
Australia Launches REnew Pacific at COP29
At COP29 , the Australian Government announced a $75 million investment through the REnew Pacific program to support the Pacific transition away from fossil fuels, improve energy security, benefit from the global transition to renewable energy and drive climate resilient development in remote communities.
Nauru breaks ground on first international submarine cable connection
The Nauru Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology , in partnership with the Nauru Fibre Cable Corporation, marked a pivotal milestone on 1 November, launching the civil works for Nauru's first international submarine cable connection.
Safer streets and greener jobs for Vanuatu’s remote communities thanks to new Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships
Australia is powering sustainable energy and jobs for remote communities across Vanuatu, thanks to two Off-Grid Renewable Partnerships officially launched last week at a special event hosted by the Australia Government and ActionAid Vanuatu.
Uniting forces for Papua New Guinea’s future: A collaborative training initiative to transform procurement and project delivery at PNG Power Ltd.
In an effort to boost infrastructure success across Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Australian Government through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), alongside the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank (WB), has come together to deliver a high-impact training workshop for valued partner, PNG Power Ltd (PPL).
PRIF Week 2024: the AIFFP supports local economic growth and digital inclusion
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) showcased its commitment to resilient, inclusive and locally driven infrastructure during the recent Pacific Region Infrastructure Facility (PRIF) Week 2024.
Remote Fijian school closing technology and energy gap for students with sustainable solar system
School children on the remote Rabi Island community in Fiji can now benefit from more reliable, renewable energy and internet in their classrooms thanks to a newly-installed solar system and satellite internet connection that was officially launched this week.
Record-breaking Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnership lights up Solomon Island hospital with 24/7 energy
Families in Solomon Islands’ Guadalcanal Province can now access a more resilient healthcare system powered by 24/7 solar energy, thanks to a partnership between Superfly Limited, the Good Samaritan Hospital and the Australian Government.
Australia anchors Tonga's future with major port upgrades complete
In the heart of the Pacific lies Tonga—a nation of islands bound together by its maritime connections. The Queen Salote International Wharf (QSIW) is the heartbeat of these connections, serving as Tonga's main gateway to global trade and essential supplies. Now, through a collaborative partnership under the Upgrading Tonga’s international port project, this vital infrastructure is being upgraded to meet future challenges and ensure continued growth.
A New Vision for Fiji’s Road Network
With support from the Australian Government, the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) has launched its first-ever Strategic Plan, establishing a new vision for a well-maintained and resilient national network of roads.
Supporting Solomon Islands to reach 100% renewable energy by 2050
The Australian Government recently launched four business partnerships to power up remote and rural Solomon Islands communities with small-scale, off-grid renewable energy at a special event in Honiara.
Powering the Pacific and Timor-Leste with three new Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships
The Australian Government has announced three new business partnerships to deliver off-grid renewable energy to remote and rural communities in Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Vanuatu.
Australia anchors Tonga's future with major port upgrades
Australia is investing in Tonga’s future with significant upgrades to the Queen Salote International Wharf (QSIW) officially unveiled on Friday, 12 July in Nuku’alofa.
‘Golden Buoy’ presentation marks a major leap in Timor-Leste's digital future
Timor-Leste has made a significant leap forward in securing its digital future with the 'Golden Buoy' presentation and the launch of the Timor-Leste South Submarine Cable in Dili.
Building safer roads: Australian investment enhances safety standards in Fiji
Australia's investment is raising safety and efficiency standards in Fiji's road maintenance and construction sectors.
Climate resilient upgrades to Tuvalu’s Nui harbour complete
Supported by AIFFP financing, the newly upgraded Nui Island harbour in Tuvalu was opened for use to the local community by the Governor General of the Government of Tuvalu alongside Australian Government and Asian Development Bank (ADB) representatives.
Seven new Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships to power up remote Pacific communities
The Australian Government has today announced seven new business partnerships to support small-scale, off-grid renewable energy in remote and rural areas across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
Pacific seminar unites development partners for sustainable infrastructure growth
A landmark event recently provided a unique opportunity for development partners, including the AIFFP, to collaborate in their collective commitment to delivering on the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles.
Lighting up remote Fijian school communities with sustainable solar energy systems
School children in remote Fijian communities are expected to benefit from more reliable, renewable energy in their classrooms, thanks to the latest Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnership announced this week.
Australia’s support to strengthen Fiji's maritime sector
Earlier this month, the Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, and Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon. Pat Conroy MP alongside Fiji Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, signed two Memorandum of Understandings (Mou) on Port Infrastructure and Services.
Powering Healthcare in Solomon Islands
Australia’s support is bolstering the health care system through improved energy security in the rural community of Tetere in Solomon Islands.
Australia's AUD72 million investment transforms roads, boosts markets for local women
A transformative collaboration between Australia and the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is not only reshaping Fiji's transport landscape but is also providing better access to markets for local Fijian women vendors.
New Vuniyasi Bridge on Fiji’s main Queen’s Highway Opened
Australia’s High Commissioner and Special Envoy for the Pacific & Regional Affairs, His Excellency, Ewen McDonald attended the opening ceremony of the newly constructed Vuniyasi Bridge in Nadi on 23 February 2024, alongside representatives from the Fiji Roads Authority.
First two Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships in the Pacific and Timor-Leste announced
The first two Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships for the Pacific and Timor Leste through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) have been announced.
AIFFP funds upgrade and installation of renewable energy projects across Papua New Guinea
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific will provide a USD150 million grant and concessional loan package to Papua New Guinea to support the repair and upgrade of key energy assets.
AIFFP funds released to improve maritime transport infrastructure Nui and Niutao outer islands in Tuvalu
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) has disbursed initial tranche of grant funds as part of its support to upgrade two critical boat harbours in the Nui and Niutao outer Islands, Tuvalu.
AIFFP Releases Inaugural Annual Update
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is pleased to announce the release of the inaugural AIFFP Annual Update, providing a comprehensive overview of the AIFFP’s activities, achievements, and impact to date.
AIFFP funds feasibility study to inform the redevelopment of Lautoka Foreshore
Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), is partnering with Fiji Ports Corporation Limited to provide AUD380,000 for a feasibility study to inform the redevelopment of the Lautoka foreshore, located within the Port boundary.
East Micronesia Cable Survey Ship Makes Port of Call
The East Micronesia Cable (EMC) survey ship, RV Bold Explorer, recently made a port of call in Pohnpei before commencing its survey route for the EMC.
AIFFP unveil new Acknowledgment of Country
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is proud to announce the addition of a new Acknowledgement of Country to the AIFFP website.
AIFFP signs co-financing arrangement with ADB for climate-resilient upgrades to Nuku’alofa Port, Tonga
The AIFFP, is partnering with the ADB and the Kingdom of Tonga to provide $31.25 million for the critical upgrades to Nuku’alofa Port . AIFFP funding forms part of a $138.3 million project that will provide climate-resilient upgrades to the Queen Solate International Wharf (QSIW) of Nuku’alofa Port.
Australia and Vanuatu sign MOU to support Vanuatu’s aviation sector
Vanuatu’s critical aviation sector will benefit from the signing today of an agreement between Australia and Vanuatu to design and scope a package of infrastructure works at Vanuatu’s international airports.
New partnership opportunities to support off-grid renewable energy in the Pacific and Timor-Leste
The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) has today announced new partnership opportunities for organisations with solutions for providing reliable and affordable off-grid energy access to remote communities in the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
Implementation now underway on the East Micronesia Cable
Work to manufacture and lay the East Micronesia Cable (EMC) has officially commenced, with the EMC Management Committee members signing a contract with the successful supplier, NEC Corporation.
Inauguration of solar plant to power homes and businesses across Palau
An AIFFP-funded solar power plant and batter storage facility has been officially inaugurated in Palau. The plant, comprised of 15.28 MWp of solar power generation and a 12.9MW battery storage facility, is at Ngatpang on Babeldaob, Palau.
Opening of Yaqara Bridge in Fiji following upgrades financed by AIFFP
Supported by AIFFP financing, the newly replaced Yaqara Bridge in Fiji was opened for use to the local community by the Turaga Na Tui Vatu (Chief) of Vakukaloko alongside Fiji Government and Australian High Commission representatives.
Advancing delivery of the East Micronesia Cable project
More than 100,000 people across the Pacific will receive faster, more relabile, secure and higher quality internet connectivity through the East Micronesia Cable Project.
A new AIFFP Board
A newly shaped AIFFP Board has been appointed.
We're hiring!
If you’re looking for a career that has real world impact and is at the centre of Australia’s foreign policy and international development agenda, the AIFFP has several opportunities available in a diverse and high-performing team.
New partnership with Timor-Leste to improve airport facilities
The Australian and Timor-Leste Governments are partnering to create local jobs and economic growth with a $97.7 million concessional financing package for the redevelopment of Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili.
Growing together: further maritime support for PNG
In November 2022, the first AIFFP funded pilot boat, purpose-built for PNG Ports Corporation (PNG Ports), was launched in a ceremony attended by Papua New Guinea Minister for State Enterprises, the Hon William Duma MP and Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, and Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP.
AIFFP - A Partner Of Choice, Finds Independent Review
An Independent Review of the AIFFP’s first two years in operation has found that the AIFFP is responding to needs of the Pacific and Timor-Leste and has become the second-largest infrastructure financier in the Pacific.
October Budget 2022-23: Unlocking opportunities and boosting connectivity through quality, climate-resilient infrastructure
The Australian Government has expanded investment in climate infrastructure, doubled the AIFFP’s grant funding, and strengthened the AIFFP’s capability through the October 2022-23 Budget.
Palau Solar project sets new benchmark for quality Pacific infrastructure
The Palau Solar investment is delivering low emissions and climate resilient infrastructure alongside robust safeguards.
Driving economic activity and climate resilience in Fiji
Australia, through the AIFFP, will boost its support for Fiji’s economic recovery and climate-resilience with a AUD72 million concessional, results-based financing package. This will support the renewal of more than 1.5 million square metres of road surface and replacement of nine key bridges through the Fiji Transport Infrastructure Restoration Project.
Landmark agreement advances East Micronesia Cable investment
Australia, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Japan, Kiribati, Nauru and the United States of America have signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding for the East Micronesia Cable project, which is supported by financing from the AIFFP.
Palau Cable Landing
Pre-Lay Shore End of the Palau Submarine Cable Branch System conducted at Ngardmau.
Lighting houses and connecting communities in Papua New Guinea
Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, is financing AUD168.2 million for upgrades and refurbishments to Papua New Guinea’s energy and road networks.
Nauru Airport refurbishment
The Australian Government will provide an AUD40 million grant finance package, including AUD30 million through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), to upgrade Nauru’s international airport.
Financing agreements to improve renewable energy infrastructure in Palau
Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, is providing a USD22 million financing package to Solar Pacific Pristine Power for a landmark solar and battery energy storage facility in Palau. The agreements were signed on Monday 31 January 2022.
Partnering with Papua New Guinea to upgrade and refurbish maritime port infrastructure
Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is financing AUD621.4 million worth of upgrades and refurbishments to a number of Papua New Guinea’s ports.
Improving East Micronesia telecommunications connectivity
Australia, Japan, and the United States – working in partnership with the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kiribati and Nauru – are funding the construction of a new undersea cable to enhance internet connectivity to these three Pacific nations.
AIFFP and ANZ Fiji sign investment with Airports Fiji (AFL) to support the region’s aviation sector
Fiji’s tourism industry is set for a boost with a AUD68 million investment in Fiji Airports for improved air services and connections in the region.
This week, Australia, through the AIFFP, signed the final agreements for a Palau undersea cable.
As a key initiative under the Trilateral Partnership for Infrastructure Investment in the Indo-Pacific, Australia, the US, and Japan have invested approximately AUD40 million in the project, along with Palau.
Australia and Papua New Guinea signed an MOU to support PNG maritime port infrastructure through the AIFFP
Australia and Papua New Guinea signed a Memorandum of Understanding to support upgrades of major PNG ports
AIFFP signed financing agreements with Solomon Islands Electricity Authority and Solomon Islands
The AIFFP signed financing agreements with Solomon Islands Electricity Authority and Solomon Islands for more affordable and reliable energy for Honiara
AIFFP signs loan agreement for Palau undersea cable
Australia, through the AIFFP, signed a series of agreements with Palau and the Belau Submarine Cable Corporation (BSCC) to provide financing for the construction of an undersea fibre optic cable.
Celebrating NAIDOC Week
The Australia Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) took part in NAIDOC Week 2020 celebrations, the annual National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander celebration.
AIFFP establishes DFAT’s Capital Infrastructure Service Panel
Following an open tender process, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has entered into contract to establish a Capital Infrastructure Service Panel
Australia partnering with Japan and the United States to finance Palau undersea cable
Australia is partnering with Japan and the United States to finance an undersea fibre optic cable to the Republic of Palau. This project, valued at approximately US$30 million, will ensure reliable, secure digital connectivity in Palau.
Australia supporting Fiji with flood alleviation project
Australia is working in partnership with Fiji to mitigate the impact of floods on the major population centre of Nadi in a joint effort to save lives, reduce homelessness and protect the local economy.
AIFFP finance for an undersea cable study in Timor-Leste
On 30 August 2019, Prime Minister Morrison announced that the Australian Government would finance the Front End Engineering Design study (FEED) in Timor-Leste, in response to a formal request from the Timor-Leste Government to assist in their efforts to construct a quality undersea telecommunications cable.
AIFFP financing for Tina River Hydropower Development Project
Prime Minister Morrison advised Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sogavare of Australia’s further support for the Tina River Hydropower Development Project through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), in response to Solomon Islands’ request for financing.
AIFFP's response to COVID-19
COVID-19 has had a devastating economic effect on the region - the AIFFP’s focus on local jobs and private sector will provide much needed economic stability and stimulus for Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste.
Papua New Guinea electrification partnership
Joint media release
The AIFFP, alongside the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby, continues to work with Papua New Guinea, Japan, New Zealand and the United States to support PNG’s target of connecting 70% of the population by 2030. Current connectivity is 13%.
Capital Infrastructure Services Panel industry briefing transcript
As part of DFAT's responsibility for implementing the AIFFP, it is currently seeking to establish a panel that can provide Client Side Project Management (CSPM) and/or Head Contractor (HC) services in the Indo-Pacific region.
Tender released 29 November; opportunity to register for industry briefing at DFAT on 5 December 2019
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has released a tender to establish a panel for construction and project management services.
Announcement of upcoming Construction and Project Management Panel Tender
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) will release a tender to establish a panel for construction and project management services in late November 2019.
Stepping up climate resilience in the Pacific
The Morrison Government is stepping up its renewable energy investment and climate and disaster resilience support in the Pacific by partnering with our nearest neighbours to protect their security and livelihoods.
Enhancing Infrastructure in the Pacific
Joint media release
The Morrison Government's signature initiative to boost long-term economic growth in our region, the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is today open for business.