The emergence of the coronavirus pandemic has reiterated the importance of Australia’s relationship with Pacific Island countries and Australia has taken immediate action to support our neighbours across the Pacific to respond to the virus, including through the diversion of aid towards response efforts and the provision of medical aid including personal protective equipment. This immediate support is welcome, but without a substantial increase to Australia’s aid budget this support comes at the expense of other development projects.
The pandemic has also exposed the weaknesses in the global economy and raises questions about how Australia can adapt its Pacific Step-Up initiatives to ensure they reflect the priorities and needs of governments and communities across the Pacific, particularly women and girls.