Tongans in Australia have improved understanding of lands processes and procedures in Tonga, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR) says in a report that concludes its 'Toe Talatalanoa Overseas Program’. The program was initiated by the ministry to address the concerns of Tongan communities overseas regarding land in Tonga.

The program was led by MLNR Minister, Hon. Lord Tu’i’afitu, from 5-22 December 2023.

"This visit was a testament to our commitment to listen, engage, and collaborate with our overseas Tongan communities," stated Lord Tu’i’afitu. "The insights gained during these engagements are invaluable, helping us shape more effective strategies to address the concerns raised and further strengthen our services.”

The Toe Talatalanoa Overseas Program's primary goal was to bridge communication gaps, provide vital information, and address pressing land-related issues in Tonga faced by Tongans residing in Australia, covering various cities, including Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, and Brisbane in Australia.

The first Talatalanoa session started in Melbourne, from 6 to 9 December, 2023. Tongan communities in Melbourne raised concerns of land ownership in Tonga, and includinng the line of succession for family land.

The second Talatalanoa session continued to Canberra on the 9 to 14 December, where the MLNR team ran a radio talk show with the Tongans in Canberra, who voiced out their concerns about getting lands back that were reverted to estate holder, opportunity to own land in Tonga, lands processes, procedures, and instructions.

The third Talatalanoa sessions was held in Sydney from 14 to 19 December. The Tongans in Sydney wanted to know more about the opportunity for women in Australia for land ownership in Tonga, issues with occupiers of land registered by Tongans in Australia submiting claim for the land they occupied.

Lord Tu'i'afitu and delegates joined a live television and radio programme and talk back on the Pasifika TV and Radio, to conclud the Talatalanoa sessions in Brisbane, from 19-22 December. Hon. Lord Tu'i'afitu highlights the importance of the 'Nofo 'a Kainga' concept, and the need for talatalanoa within families regarding family land knowing there are heirs and line of successions.