An additional AUD8.5 million ($13.2 million pa’anga) in further budget support to support economic recovery and fiscal resilience in Tonga was committed today by the Australian Government. 

The support was formalised in a signing ceremony between the Minister for Finance, Hon. Tiofilusi Tiueti and Australian High Commissioner, HE Rachael Moore.

The brings the total of Australian direct budget support to Tonga to more than AUD45 million ($70 million pa'anga) this financial year.

HE Moore said Australia recognises that Tonga is on a difficult path to fully recover from the triple shocks of COVID-19, the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai disaster and global inflationary pressures.

“Our assistance directly supports Tonga’s leadership and priorities, and our development and economic partnership founded on mutual trust, respect and reliability.”

Hon. Tiueti, in acknowledging the support, said Australia’s partnership with Tonga is always positive and this budget support is timely for our internal deliberations.

"The increased budget support will further enhance the Tongan Government’s efforts to deliver sustainable development outcomes for our people.”

This AUD8.5 million contribution is part of Australia’s commitment to the Joint Policy Reform Matrix, a policy dialogue platform between the Tongan Government and development partners.

Additional resources will help progress responsive fiscal decisions and to strengthen reforms in the areas of public finances and administration, climate action, social protection, and education.

Australia and Tonga are close partners and friends, working closely together on Tonga’s recovery and development priorities. Australia remains committed to helping build a stronger Pacific family and to navigate shared challenges together.