Comments

Can you provide the total number of the ni-Vanuatu working in SWP programs in Australia and the amount of money they send back home?

A very interesting and timely analysis, Richard and Stephen. The rapid growth in Fiji's participation in the long-term PALM visa programme is not surprising given the consistently high participation (by comparison with other Pacific countries) of Fiji citizens in New Zealand's longer term temporary work programmes in the past as well as in the current AEWV programme. With a population that is almost three times the size of Vanuatu's, a well-developed tertiary training system, and a long history of engagement in labour migration in New Zealand and Australia, it is to be expected that Fiji will be a very prominent player in longer-term temporary migration programmes.

Thank you for this moving tribute to Helen's life. She was a wonderfully caring person who supported a huge number of worthy causes and benefitted the lives and careers of multiple people around the world. Thank you for including this photo of her with a Timor Pony. She was very worried that these wonderful animals (whose bloodlines contributed to the hardy Australia Waler horse) are dying out. How wonderful it would be if a conservation program could be established in Helen's name.

Please, when is a Resident Visa for Samoa open (Pacific Engagement Visa)?

Interesting work - I like the way authors have presented the information highlighting the business opportunity. Certainly, looking at the age distribution of trees, and the average yield of coffee that is in the lower end compared to other producers, there is a huge opportunity to invigorate the industry with new investment in the production system. As a under-storey forest plant in its natural setting, coffee is best grown as a component of a tree crop farming system. That could have additional benefits as it can extend income opportunities, spread risks and create a more conducive environment for smallholder farmers who need a regular income to stay connected with the farm and their community. A farming systems focus can also help spread new ideas on integrated pest management drawing on ways to improve crop hygiene, plant and soil nutrition and year round labour force utilisation to encourage more productive and sustainable farming. An earlier ACIAR research study - https://www.aciar.gov.au/project/asem-2008-036 - recommended that intercropping with vegetable as a an alternative that should be investigated. A farming systems based studies, for instance can investigate viable components of a multiple enterprise farming system and innovative , context relevant ways to build on this important work. There are many ways such a study can incorporate other pressing issues of adapting to climate change and rural development challenges in enhancing child nutrition and gender equality.

Hi Natasha and Stephen, I am grateful to come across this life changing opportunity and on how you two reply or give feedback on the comments. My question is I am not living in Australia, nor a visa holder but I do have all the necessary documents as requested. Should I be eligible to apply for Pacific Engagement Visa Ballot

Yeah... it's a serious concern.

This inspired me.

This is truly a saddening stage where PNG Government neglecting a major policy implementation with CEPA, to reduce and mitigate the increasing soiled waste disposals in PNG.

Thank you for the vital information, Natasha. I already registered for the ballot and put 3 dependants. The question is, should I choose to leave them behind due to the high cost of moving, settling and living in Australia?? So later on I could arrange for their travel to Aussie to join me??

Ah, the sweet aroma of cultural preservation wafts through the halls of foreign policy. Australia, that well-meaning neighbor with a penchant for meddling, has decided to sprinkle some fairy dust on Melanesian systems. But beware, Melanesians, for this is no ordinary fairy tale—it’s a cinnamon-dusted, sugar-coated saga. Picture this: A conference room adorned with woven mats, where diplomats sip coconut water and discuss global standards. “Gentlemen,” says the Australian envoy, “let’s integrate Indigenous customs into our justice procedures. It’s like adding pineapple to pizza—unconventional, but oh-so-exotic.” Meanwhile, Melanesian leaders exchange knowing glances. They’ve seen this show before. Global standards, like clingy ex-lovers, have infiltrated every crevice of their governance. “Our ancestors,” they muse, “must be rolling in their yam gardens. HAHA” But wait, there’s more! When all else fails, Australia suggests a cultural Hail Mary: “Let’s try their traditional customs!” “Remember those sacred rituals and practices we dismissed as quaint? Well, dust off the kava bowls and fire up the bamboo flutes. It’s showtime!” And so, the dance begins. Lawyers waltz with tribal chiefs, negotiating land disputes to the beat of ancient drums. “Your honor,” says the ni-Vanuatu attorney, “I propose a seashell currency for legal fees. It’s inflation-proof and biodegradable.” Australia, bless her heart, wants to be respectful. “We’ll preserve your culture,” they promise, “like a jam-filled doughnut—sweet, messy, and occasionally indigestible.” When foreign policy meets cultural integration, it’s like mixing Vegemite with taro paste. Some things just don’t blend. But fear not, dear Melanesia, for your traditions endure. And if all else fails, dunk them in coffee—because even global standards need a caffeine boost. But happy celebrations. Cheeeeeeuuuu!

Tank you for government Australia guiving opportunity