A two day training programme to look at Social Protection system, was launched by the Australian High Commissioner, HE Rachel Moore, at the Tanoa International Hotel on 23 May.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs’ in partnership with the Australian High Commission, welcomed the opportunity for dialogue and learning on social protection. The Austalian High Commissioner also expressed the pride they take in working together with the Tongan Government. 

“The Australian Government is committed to supporting neighbouring governments to strengthen social protection systems,” said HE Rahcel Moore.

“This training will examine how other countries in the region have implemented Social Protection systems and look at which approaches might also work for the
people of Tonga.”

The Australian government hope that this training is the first step in strengthening and building on the important social protection programs that are already in place, including both government led-formal systems and the strong traditions of safety nets across Tongan families, communities and churches.

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Lord Vaea said the training is an opportunity for stakeholders to better understand how social protection can improve the lives of all of Tonga’s citizens.

Training

The training, for 80 key government and civil society representatives, is being conducted by the Partnerships for Social Protection Program (P4SP), an Australian government initiative. 

The training will equip participants with a broad understanding of what social protection is and how it— when designed and implemented well —improves lives and reduces inequality.

P4SP supports governments in Pacific Island Countries and Timor-Leste to strengthen national social protection systems. The program brings together expert advisors who, drawing on evidence, lessons and experiences from this region and the world more broadly, work with governments to identify and implement tailored and appropriate social protection solutions.

“We are thrilled to be able to meet the request for this training from the Government of Tonga,” said the Senior Social Protection Specialist, Juliet Attenborough.

The Tongan Government has already taken important steps to building Tonga’s social protection system, including the implementation of the Elderly Social Welfare Scheme, the National Retirement Benefits Fund, the Disability Welfare Scheme, and the World Bank supported Skills and Employment for Tongans (SET) project.