French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu is in New Caledonia to host the 10th South Pacific Defence Ministers' Meeting.

Tensions have risen as New Zealand following a decision from the new coalition government to reduce use of the Māori language.

A first-of-its-kind protest against deep-sea mining in international waters has ended with activists being ordered to abandon an exploration vessel. 

Tongan Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni says a loss and damage fund handed down at COP 28 will help absorb the damage from cyclones and rising sea levels, but more investment is needed in health and education. Also, New Caledonia hosts its 10th South Pacific Defence Ministers' Meeting.

An alarming increase in new HIV infections in Papua New Guinea has people scrambling to resuscitate dormant programs to prevent the spread of the disease.

A community in Vanuatu's capital Port Vila wants the government to ban slipways over environmental concerns. 

The lawyer who blew the whistle on Papua New Guinea's biggest corruption scandal is among the recipients of a prestigious free speech prize.

The United Nations Climate talks in Dubai are past the halfway mark, and already a loss and damage fund has been set up, with countries committing hundreds of millions of dollars.

Jasmin Togo-Brisby is an artist who highlights the history of blackbirding, where Pacific Islanders were brought to Australia to work in slave-like conditions.

This week, world leaders are meeting in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to attend the world's most important climate meeting, COP28.

Papua New Guinea's Porgera mine in Enga Province could be cleared to reopen by the end of the year after PNG's government amended the nation's mining act.

There's growing concern about sexual violence against women in Fiji after more than 180 cases of rape were reported between January and August this year.

Papua New Guinea's Porgera minecould be cleared to reopen by the end of the year, but it's unclear if the government's move to close it in the first place to increase its own stake will pay off. Also, Australian disability advocates call for increase in foreign aid to support Pacific people.

The very first fale constructed outside of Samoa is about to celebrate it's 45th Birthday.

Vanuatu's climate change minister says his aim at this week's climate meeting, COP 28, is to cement an ambitious phase out of fossil fuels.

A not-for-profit is calling on Australian academics to volunteer and share their expertise with Pacific universities.

Calls are growing louder for the transfer to Australia of a group of refugees who have been living in Papua New Guinea.  

The Pacific region has some of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, in the Solomon Islands 64 per cent of partnered aged 15-49 have reported experiencing sexual or physical violence from an intimate partner.

Pacific delegates have started arriving in the United Arab Emirates city of Dubai for 28th UN Conference of Parties.

Fears new policies from New Zealand's new coalition government could hurt Maori and Pasifika communities. Also, University of the South Pacific staff express betrayed by re-appointment of Vice-Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia.

New Zealand's coalition government has finally been sworn in, nearly two months after the country held its elections. 

The University of the South Pacific's staff association says it's members feel betrayed by Vice-Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia and they're disappointed his contract's been renewed.

Samoa has introduced a cap to restrict the number of  workers participating in New Zealand and Australia's labour mobility schemes.

Samoa has become the first country in the Pacific to put a cap on the number of workers taking part in the labour mobility scheme.

An influential bloc of Pacific nations is calling for a decrease in the level of independent monitoring of its lucrative tuna fishery.

Cerebral palsy is a difficult condition to treat, even in the best hospitals in the region, but there is hope a new registry developed by Australian heath experts in Vanuatu can change that.

Six countries expressed interest in hosting the Pacific Games in 2031 during a Pacific Games Council Assembly meeting, after Tahiti in 2027.

Questions are being raised in Papua New Guinea, whether a newly announced parliamentary inquiry into media conduct will be appropriate and independent.

The Pacific Games Council say they will be looking to review the number of athletes competing at future Pacific Games saying 5000 is too many.

While Samoa won gold in the men's rugby league 9s it was the post siren on field brawl with Fiji that had people talking

All the latest sports news and views from the Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands 

History maker Roy Krishna is still blazing a trail in Pacific football, and at 36 the fondly called "Wonder Boy" of Fiji football has no plans of slowing down.

The 17th Pacific Games are officially underway in Solomon Islands following the Opening Ceremony in the new national stadium on Sunday night.

For Solomon Islands long-distance specialist Sharon Firisua, competing in the half-marathon will be a dream come true as she'll get to compete in front of a home crowd, but it will also be a bittersweet goodbye to the sport she has made her name in.

Paul Ainton is a well known name in PNG rugby, and now the former player has been appointed as the new head coach of the PNG Hunters.

Guam basketball is looking to pull off the gold three-peat at the Honiara Pacific Games after winning gold in 2015 and 2019.

With a ticket to the Paris Olympics up for grabs in the Pacific Games archery recurve competition for first time, teams have been giving it there all with team Samoa hoping to build on their success by claiming an Olympic spot.

The countdown to this 2023 Pacific Games opening ceremony is underway as Honiara looks to host the biggest sporting event in the region with four sports competitions starting today.

The countdown to this weekend's opening ceremony of the 2023 Pacific Games is underway as Honiara looks to host the biggest sporting event in the region.

A motion of no confidence against the prime minister of Vanuatu has been withdrawn after an intervention by the country's president.

Homebirths are becoming more popular among women in Australia, with some choosing that path after a negative or traumatic hospital birth.

Fiji's main island appears to have escaped the brunt of Tropical Cyclone Mal overnight.

Cyclone Mal has intensified into a category 2 system, with the Fiji Met Service expecting it to maintain its strength as it tracks south west over Fiji. 

An army of workers and volunteers have been working hard to prepare Honiara for the Pacific Games, but widespread flooding hit the country over the weekend, tragically claiming the lives of three children.

Calls for a snap election are mounting as Vanuatu faces a possibility of having its fourth prime minister in the space of about three months

Some Pacific delegates are in Kenya this week to discuss what a global plastics treaty could look like.

Calls for a snap election are mounting as Vanuatu faces the possibility of having its fourth prime minister in the space of about three months.

Shock in Kiribati after it was revealed the men's football team were withdrawn from the Pacific Games just weeks before the competition was due to start. 

Naomi Roberts and her teammates in Fiji's volleyball squad  remember their trip to the Pacific Games in Guam 1999 for more reasons than one. The good part was winning the bronze medal, but not before some unwelcome visitors in their accommodation gave the players nightmares.

Olympic qualification is on the line at the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship, and while Samoa are the favourites Tonga are determined to upstage their Pacific rivals and qualify for the Olympics for their first time.

Hometown girl Jenly Tegu Wini is out to strike Pacific Games gold again in Honiara, and then switch her attention to coaching next generation lifter Shirmara Wini, her niece.  

First it was central defender Alvin Komolong, now PNG Kapuls' captain Raymond Gunemba has gone down with a serious injury that neither his club nor the PNG FA can afford to fix.

The political instability in Vanuatu persists as a motion of no confidence has been lodged against PM Charlot Salwai who only took on the position last month.

West Papuan leaders say they're putting hope in two powerful Pacific prime ministers to hold dialogues with Indonesia over alleged human rights abuses in the region. 

Pacific and Australian delegates are hopeful they will reach an agreement on a plastics treaty at a conference in Kenya next week.

Melanesian countries at the Pacific Islands forum have decided to send Fiji and Papua New Guinea's Prime Ministers to Indonesia to press it on human rights in West Papua.

The work of three talented women from Papua New Guinea has been on display at the Paradise Pallette exhibition in Brisbane. 

When Michael Wandul was a young boy in the village, his mother didn't let him go to school. Now, decades later, he's proving you are never too old to get an education - he enrolled in prep when he was only 71 years old, and six years later has graduated from Gantom Primary School in Papua New Guinea.

Golfer Faith Vui has become the first Samoan to win the New Zealand Women's Amateur Championship.

The Pacific region has experienced an increase in ransomware attacks and a new proposal seeks to mobilise resources and to assess and upgrade country cyber-based systems to protect them from attacks in the future.

A government-charted flight carrying leaders and media from across the Pacific has landed in the Cook Islands for the Pacific Islands Forum.

A government-charted flight carrying leaders and media from across the pacific lands in the Cook Islands for the Pacific Islands Forum. Also, Papua New Guinea deputy prime minister John Rosso heads to Pacific Islands Forum in place of James Marape, who is 'too busy.'

A senior lecturer in defence and security says the absence of multiple leaders will be felt by the Cook Islands at the Pacific Islands Forum.

A Papua New Guinean whistleblower has returned to his job after raising concerns about alleged malpractice within the country's Climate Change Development Authority.

The first woman from Bougainville to ever be elected to Papua New Guinea's parliament says her two priorities are development and achieving independence from PNG.

Final preparations are underway in Cook Islands for the region's most important political gathering, the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting.

Now in its third year, the Indigenous Wellbeing conference in Darwin allows attendees to learn and listen to leaders in the Indigenous wellbeing spaces.

Final preparations are underway in Cook Islands for the region's most important political gathering the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting — it comes as Pacific Elders Voice state that Australia's COP31 hosting ambitions contradict their climate change actions.

Boxing gold medals at the Pacific Games in Honiara will shine more brightly than usual because they'll also guarantee the winners a spot at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Pacific Games to head in a new direction in Honiara, with the best boxers from the Pacific, Australia and NZ battling for gold medals and places at the Paris Olympics next year. 

Tonga is sending a women's rugby league 9s team to the Pacific Games for the first time, and coach Monica Henry is confident her squad will be in the shake-up for medals.

While PNG has dominated conversation about the NRL's 18th team, the Bati's Head Coach Wise Kativerata believes Fiji is the place to go with what he says is a surfeit of young, talented players

At the Pacific Games in 2007,  there was no basketball team representing FSM, but they flew the flag from the sidelines in the form of referee Ramsie Joab.   

Concern is mounting in Canberra after Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare announced China is sending additional police to the country to help provide security for the Pacific Games

Civil rights groups in Fiji say they're alarmed that police won't let a march in support of Palestine go ahead.

A new study in The Lancet South East Asia journal found alarming rates of bacterial resistance to drugs used to treat babies and children in the Asia-Pacific region.

Solomon Islands will host the Pacific Games in a little over a fortnight with thousands of athletes to converge on East Honiara for the events opening. 

In Samoa there are concerns about the growing social impact of the abuse of illegal methamphetamines, police say it's become more of an issue since the post-COVID reopening of international borders.

Fisheries leaders from across the Pacific are in Iceland with the hopes of learning how the country transitioned from being dependent on development funding to having a thriving local fishing industry.

In Samoa, there are concerns about the growing social impact of the abuse of illegal methamphetamines, an issue that has become worse since the post-COVID reopening of international borders.

A new-short film, In Exile, explores America's nuclear legacy in the Pacific, through the eyes of members of the Marshallese community, who have been in exile for 70 years.

Nauru's parliament has elected a controversial political figure to be the country's next president and Amnesty International's Pacific researcher says it raises concerns  "for the safety and well-being of asylum seekers".

The United Nations agency for children, UNICEF, says around half of the 50,000 people estimated to have been affected by Cyclone Lola in Vanuatu are children.

Fiji's Prime Minister has been accused of breaking away from principles of peace after the country voted against a United Nations resolution to call for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

A new report says Pacific people in New Zealand aren't being given culturally appropriate support in the criminal justice system, worsening outcomes among already vulnerable groups.

A top think tank cautions the Australian government to be careful not to burden Pacific countries with debt as it expands it's role as a major lender in the region in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A resolution calling for a humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas was passed at the UN General Assembly, six Pacific countries voted against it sparking controversy in the region

Scientists have discovered two healthy underwater reefs surrounding Galapagos Islands, with one of them spanning 800 metres.

A state of emergency has been declared for five of Vanuatu's six provinces following Cyclone Lola, which peaked at category five. 

Fiji's government has come under fire over its decision to vote against a United Nations resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza-Israel conflict. 

For the first time, a military leader from Papua New Guinea will become second-in-command of one of Australia's combat brigades.

Hungarian President Katalin Novak has travelled to Pityluh Island in PNG's Manus province to pay respect to a slain wartime missionary.

Fiji's government has come under fire over its decision to vote against a United Nations resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in Gaza.

The curious beast that is the Pacific Rugby League Championships resumes this weekend with what in effect will be two grand final rehearsals. 

The main stadium for the Pacific Games in Solomon Islands has passed its first test, hosting the decisive match in the Telikom Soccer League, and the national athletics championships.

The main stadium for next month's Pacific Games has had its first real work out, while tickets for the Games go on sale sparking a rise in public interest ahead of the opening ceremony.

World Rugby has unveiled its grand plan, with confirmation that a global 12-team men's competition will be launched in 2026.

Toko takes the lead as Vanuatu seek to maintain their grip on beach volleyball gold at the Pacific Games  

Sixty years on, the face of the very first Pacific Games in Fiji, 1963, reflects on the role that made her famous across the region 

Indigenous/Pasifika men in Australia and around the world are four times more at risk of suicide or experience suicidal thoughts

A deal between the US and Australia will see Google expand an existing commercial project to run undersea cables to the nations of Micronesia, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

The pioneers of Australian drill music, ONEFOUR, are telling their own story in a new Netflix documentary, "ONEFOUR: Against All Odds".

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's plans to reshuffle his cabinet have come to a halt as he faces pushback from the law society and his coalition partners.

Tonga's electricity provider says ash from a major volcanic eruption in 2022 is responsible for power blackouts on the main island of Tongatapu.

Vanuatu's Disaster Minister says Cyclone Lola is yet another example of why climate change should be top of mind for everyone, urging the world to act now. 

Vanuatu's business community says damage from Cyclone Lola, the third category-four storm in seven months, will be a big blow to the country's economy. 

Cyclone Lola is lashing out across Vanuatu with the islands of Sanma, Penama, Malampa and Shefa all on high alert

Tropical cyclone Lola has strengthened to a category 4 storm and is expected to hit Luganville, Vanuatu's second largest city, with heavy rains and gale-force winds.

Vanuatu is confident of being the first country in the Pacific to eliminate cervical cancer.

When Fijian Randy Jale moved to Australia for work, he never imagined he'd end up on a remote tropical island, often considered part of Melanesia. 

Native-born Hawaiian Matt Jachowski has created a website to connect homeowners in efforts to house locals displaced by the deadly Maui fires.

She Is Not Your Rehab is a global movement birthed from a barber shop, aiming to eliminate family & domestic violence. 

Pacific aid experts say the fight against climate change and the inclusion of local communities in decision-making should be on top of the agenda for future development planning.

The United Nations Population Fund is helping Papua New Guinea prepare for a national census, next year.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is back in office this week after a successful state visit to Australia, but he'll be busy mending relations with his coalition partners. His government coalition is experiencing cracks in the partnership between the three political parties that rule the country.  A surprise cabinet reshuffle by Rabuka hasn't gone to plan...and within his own party there's some discontent. 

Cyclone season has started unprecedentedly early in the South Pacific, with the official naming of Cyclone Lola over the weekend.

Cyclone season has started unprecedentedly early in the South Pacific, with the official formation of Cyclone Lola -- north of Vanuatu-- over the weekend

As the Rugby World Cup tournament looks ahead to the finals, Pacific teams look to the future with both Fiji and Tonga looking for a new coach, and complaints over unfair officiating and sub-conscious bias still reverberating.

Papua New Guinea has been described as 'a mountain of gold floating in a sea of oil' because of its abundant resource wealth, but new research by the World Bank suggests that has not translated into lower levels of poverty for the Papua New Guinean people.

Australia's parliament is on the verge of delivering a key election promise to the Pacific, by opening up a path for permanent residency. 

A new report by the Catholic church's development agency is urging Australia to help women fight discrimination in the Pacific. 

New research by the World Bank suggests that PNG's resource wealth has not translated into lower levels of poverty for the Papua New Guinean people.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has bought the first ticket for next month's Pacific Games, which will be held in the country's capital Honiara.

Today marks the 49th anniversary of Niue's independence in free association with Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Fijians PM calls for "Zone of Peace" which would involve Pacific island nations agreeing to refrain from actions that may jeopardise regional stability 

In the Kingdom of Tonga, owning a gun has never been common, but an uptick in crime and illegally smuggled guns has some people in the country worried.

Pacific Islanders participating in Australia's Labour Mobility scheme will soon be allowed to work in Australia with their loved ones close by.

In the Kingdom of Tonga, owning a gun has never been common, but an uptick in crime and illegally smuggled guns has some people arming themselves to protect their families. 

PNG PM James Marape and Solomon Islands Deputy PM Manasseh Maelanga are among world leaders on a state visit to Beijing to focus on the forum's theme: "Together for common development and prosperity."

A group of Pacific leaders say they're disappointed a referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament has failed.

From Broadway to London's West End, the musical Mamma Mia! has seen audiences in the millions. Now, the global smash hit is heading to Fiji.

A Tokelauan vaka, a Rotuma suru headdress and a Fijian chiefly ceremonial costume are some of the works in a new Pacific exhibition at the Australian museum in Sydney.

Environmental changes and resistance to pesticide is causing a surge in mosquito-related disease in Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.

Pacific leaders have expressed disappointment after Australia voted against altering its constitution to create an Indigenous voice to Parliament over the weekend.

The Torres Strait region voted strongly in favour of establishing a Voice to Parliament, and locals in the area still coming to terms with the result of Saturday's referendum.

Concerns about the safety of Samoa's colourful old wooden buses have once again become a talking point in the capital Apia. 

The Flying Fijians have bowed out of the men's Rugby World Cup after losing to England 30-24.

New Zealand's centre-right National Party claimed victory at the New Zealand election which saw a swing against Labour.  

The showdown between the Flying Fijians and England in the World Cup quarter finals on Monday morning is being hailed by some as the biggest Pacific rugby match in history.

The high cost of living, healthcare and housing are some of the top concerns for Pacific Islanders in Aotearoa/New ahead of the general election.

The high cost of living, healthcare and housing are some of the top concerns for Pacific Islanders in New Zealand as the country heads to the polls. 

With only two days to go for New Zealand's general elections, parties are doing everything they can to get votes in.

Authorities in Northern Marianas are assessing the damage caused by Typhoon Bolaven which generated winds of up to 120km/h.

For New Zealanders of Pasifika background with large families, the costs of attaining Australian citizenship might appear daunting.

Authorities in the Northern Marianas are assessing the damage after the group experienced gusts of up to 120km/h. 

The company behind a controversial plan to set up a gold and copper mine near the iconic Sepik River in PNG has been urged to publicly release information about its proposed dam.

More than 200 Pacific Islanders have found themselves sheltering in a war zone after travelling to Israel for a religious festival last week. 

More than 200 Pacific Islanders who travelled to Jerusalem for a religious festival have found themselves in the middle of a bloody war that has claimed hundreds of lives.

The head of a Pacific Christian delegation visiting Israel say they’re safe despite the outbreak of violence in the country.

Climate campaigner and social activist Reverend James Bhagwan has welcomed Australia’s return to the UN’s Green Climate Fund.

Fiji have qualified for the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals, knocking out the Wallabies in the process.

Vanuatu's new Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, who is the country's third in a month, has told Pacific Beat he plans on uniting a divided parliament and will be looking at new legislation to end political instability.

Vanuatu's new prime minister has vowed to unite parliament and end political instability. Charlot Salwai became the country's third prime minister in a month his predecessor was ousted in a no-confidence vote. 

Ikale Tahi coach, and former Wallaby, Toutai Kefu says the final pool round match against Romania at the Rugby World Cup will be his last as Tongan coach;

In Solomon Islands a lot of attention is understandably focused on the upcoming Pacific Games and the developments in Honiara to host the event.

The exhibit called 'Tidal Kin' at the Chau Chak Wing Museum tells Pacific stories in Sydney through archival material, their descendants and community. 

Excitement is building in Solomon Islands over the imminent opening of the revamped Munda International airport. It's believed the new international airport will improve connectivity between Western province, the rest of the country and the region.

Spirituality plays an important role in Pacific life, but the arrival of self-proclaimed prophetess Lily Java in Fiji has raised plenty of eyebrows. 

Traders in Manus put their lives on the line in pursuit of betel nut, which doesn't grow on the island. Also, A showdown looms in Vanuatu, with MPs to decide if Prime Minister Sato Kilman will keep his job.

On Santa Catalina in eastern Solomon Islands, they have a special way of dealing with disputes and settling grievances. 

Traders in Manus are putting their lives on the line in pursuit of betel nut, which doesn't grow on the island.

A new UN report has found a number of Pacific countries are vulnerable to human trafficking. 

A showdown is looming in Vanuatu, this Friday MPs will decide if the country's recently appointed Prime Minister Sato Kilman will keep his job.

Controversial contracts have overshadowed the Pacific Games, after a multimillion-dollar contract to supply toilet paper was awarded to a barbershop.

Papua New Guinea's second largest city will begin welcoming international flights, after the opening of a new airport terminal near Lae. 

Money transactions can still take days to carry out in some parts of the Pacific. But the development of a new 'SuperApp' in the Cook Islands is looking to change that.

He made his name as the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, but for the next month Papua New Guinea's New Ireland Province will be home to Will Smith.

A war wreckage expert in PNG has potentially located the final resting place of Joe Biden's uncle, Ambrose Finnegan, who was lost during World War Two.

Palau's president Surrengal Whipps Jr recaps his experience at the recent US-Pacific Forum Leaders Summit, which Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare described as a lecture. 

Palau's president Surangel Whipps Jr recaps his experience at the recent US-Pacific Forum Leaders Summit, which Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare described as a lecture. Also, Papua New Guinea's second largest city Lae, opens a new airport.

Suluafi Brianna Fruean is urging countries to get behind nations like Tuvalu and Vanuatu to sign a fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty.

Tonga's first ever dance crew, Onion Squad, has competed at the World Supremacy Battlegrounds and International Street Dance championships in Sydney.

Sato Kilman was elected Vanuatu's Prime Minister only a month ago, and already the veteran politician is facing a major challenge to his power. 

A United Nations committee found the Australian Government violated Torres Strait Islanders' human rights, and said they should get compensation. 

All eyes are on Vanuatu's Supreme Court and then Parliament as Prime Minister Sato Kilman attempts to fight off challenge from opposition. Also, we investigate what political bodies exist in the Pacific that help Indigenous peoples to be heard.

The Flying Fijians are on track to a quarterfinal appearance at the Rugby World Cup after defeating Georgia 17-12 on Sunday morning.

The United States military has begun trialling a new live-fire training range on the Pacific Island of Guam.

A Kanak independence candidate in New Caledonia has won a seat in the French senate - the first time the FLNKS party has had such a position.

There was a touching moment at the US Pacific Leaders Summit when president Joe Biden shared a personal story about his family's connection to Papua New Guinea.

Short-term layovers have turned into indefinite stays for passengers, as Air Vanuatu remains grounded.

Climate Change is one of the most important public health threat the world is facing. But what impact is it having on kids?

Pacific leaders reaffirm commitment and relations with the US, as the US Pacific Leaders Forum Summit comes to a close. Also, The United States military trial a new live-fire training range on the Pacific Island of Guam.

A Chinese Training vessel makes port in Port Moresby, just hours after Washington held a summit for Pacific Island leaders overnight on Monday. Also, Pacific leaders give their take on Australia's upcoming Voice referendum.

A "sorry situation" is how Papua New Guinea's Information and Communications Technology Minister describes the country's copyright laws.

In a few weeks, Australia will hold an historic referendum on whether to recognise its First people in the constitution.

Ebay is a global brand name - one many people in the Pacific would be familiar with. But in Fiji, scammers are using to fleece investors.

Hundreds of travellers across the Pacific are left stranded after Vanuatu's national airline cancels a string of flights over the weekend. Also, Pacific leaders prepare to commence talks at the US Pacific Forum Leaders Summit.

In Samoa, the brutal treatment of an elderly man who was beaten, tied to a stick by his wrists and ankles and carried like a pig through his village has shocked the nation.

Hundreds of travellers have been stranded in Vanuatu after the country's sole international aircraft was grounded due to mechanical issues.

Pacific leaders are in Washington DC this week for the U-S Pacific Forum Leaders Summit hosted by President Joe Biden. 

One Pacific leader who will be attending USPresident Joe Biden's Pacific leaders summit is Tongan Prime Minsiter Siaosi Sovaleni. 

The mid-year deadline passes, as negotiations drag on to finalise a security deal between Australia and PNG. Also Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare declines an invitation to attend a Pacific leaders summit hosted by Joe Biden in Washington.

Australia is pushing for a digital transformation of the Pacific's health sector, and to do so, it is set to establish a so-called Pacific Health Information Support Hub.

US President Joe Biden will host a summit with Pacific Island leaders this week where climate change, economic growth, sustainable development, public health and illegal fishing will be discussed.

Manu Samoa could all but secure a place in the knockout stage of the Rugby World Cup with a win over Argentina. Also, former Gold Coast Titans coach Justin Holbrook prepares tp take charge of a PNG team for the first time as the PM XIIIs fixture returns to Port Moresby.

Vanuatu may have a new Prime Minister, but the fallout from last month's change in government is continuing. 

President Surangel Whipps Jr from Palau is the first Pacific leader to address the delegates at the UN General Assembly.

There's calls for humanitarian intervention in West Papua after escalating violence claimed the lives of teenagers. Also, Vanuatu's opposition boycotts parliament in a bid to block a motion aimed at suspending the former speaker of parliament.

Escalating violence in West Papua has humanitarian organisations deeply concerned about the safety of civilians in the area.

The Pacific's largest university is aiming to improve collaboration with some of Australia's leading tertiary institutions. 

Fiji's win over Australia has signalled the growing strength of Pacific Island teams against tier-one nations.

Conservationists are unconvinced by James Marape's promise to stop deep sea mining.

A court has ordered a stop to the culling of bull and tiger sharks, despite recent attacks.

Opponents of deep-sea mining remain sceptical that Papua New Guinea's government's recent ban on seafloor resource projects marks the end of the controversial 'Solwara One' project. Also, A court has orders a stop to the culling of bull and tiger sharks in New Caledonia.

Health professionals from across the region recently met in Cook Islands to chart the progress made in fighting NCDs.

Fiji's Rugby World Cup hopes are alive following a historic win over Australia.

Changes to the Solomon Islands Voter Registration has driven people back to the provinces to register.

Timor-Leste's new Prime Minister will begin a six-day trip to China this week

A popular Fiji song lays bare the cost of the Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme has on families

A Samoan PHD candidate is researching whether traditional Samoan food can improve the health of people in the Pacific.

Fiji breathes new life into its Rugby World Cup campaign after defeating Australia 22-16 overnight. Also, changes to the Solomon Islands voter registration drives people back to the provinces to register.

Vanuatu's Prime minister Sato Kilman Livtuvanu says overseas seasonal work is handicapping the country.

All eyes are on Samoa and Tonga, who are gearing up for their opening matches at the Rugby Wold Cup this weekend. Also, a Rugby World Cup referee comes under further fire for his treatment of Fiji.

PNG's Minister for Internal Security Peter Tsamalili said tribal conflict in Enga dates back centuries.

Fiji authorities are racing to find the cause of a diarrhoea outbreak in communities around Ba.

Images of motherhood were among those evoked from small states during submissions to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.

Tuvalu's government makes a bold proposition, asserting it will continue to exist as a country, even if the island succumbs to rising sea levels. Also, authorities in Fiji race to find the cause of a diarrhoea outbreak in Ba.

Tuvalu has made a bold proposition, asserting that it will continue to exist as a country, even if the island disappears due to rising sea levels.

Local communities  are calling for peace in PNG's Enga Province, as families and children bear the brunt of intensifying violence.

Tuvalu and Vanuatu, are among countries taking high-emitting countries to court.

Twelve Pacific female media professionals have attended the Australian Women in Media National Conference in Sydney.

Reports of toxic mold growth, poor ventilation and ageing public school facilities in Guam spark concern ahead of the new school year. Also, Local communities call for peace in PNG's Enga Province, as families and children bear the brunt of intensifying violence.

Multiple schools have closed and many others have lapsed safety certificates as a new school year begins in Guam.

A bilas-inspired workshop will take place at a Sydney museum later this month.

The Methodist Church in Fiji calls for authorities to target the South Korean religious group Grace Roads, which it calls a cult. Also, a new wave of tribal fighting leaves 70 dead in Papua New Guinea's highlands.

Gagana fa'a Samoa is the official language of Samoa, however English is increasingly being spoken.

Two Papua New Guinean artists are in Australia taking part in a Street Art Festival in Darwin.

The Methodist Church in Fiji says its about time authorities targeted Grace Roads.

The US Senate has endorsed an expansion to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, which would include Guam and New Mexico.

New research reveals the tremendous underwater damage caused by the Tonga volcanic eruption in 2022.

The failure of ULMWP’s application to join the MSG has resulted in a shake-up of the group's leadership.

Literacy issues among Australian Pasifika youth have been reflected in New Zealand research on the topic.

A man accused of conspiring to murder Samoa's former prime minister will make another bid to be freed from prison this week.

Vanuatu's women's cricket team is on the brink of claiming the World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifying tournament on home soil.

Flying Fijians playmaker Caleb Muntz suffers World Cup ending injury, sparking speculation over replacement. Also, Pacific pundits make their predictions, as World Cup fever takes hold.

"What I think in my heart is that this will be the tournement of the Pacific Island nations."

A fresh look at one of rugby's most talented and controversial figures is being shown in a new documentary.

The Flying Fijians are awaiting news of their fly-half replacement, following a World Cup-ending injury to star playmaker Muntz.

Tonga’s Prime Minister Sioasi Sovaleni has defeated a no-confidence vote 14-11. But his opponents are crying foul, saying proper parliamentary procedures were not followed, because debate did not take place.

Vanuatu's new prime minister, Sato Kilman (Sah-toh Kil-man), says the country's security agreement with Australia is unlikely to be ratified.

A team from National Geographic plans to explore, research and encourage country leaders in the Marshall Islands to protect the Earth's oceans.

Mangroves, tidal marshes and coral reefs are slowly drowning from rising sea levels.

Parliament met well late into the night as a group of MPs attempted to oust Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni.

Vanuatu's parliament convenes to name a new Prime Minister after the Court of Appeal ruled that last month's no-confidence vote against Ishmael Kalsakau was supported by the majority of MPs. Also, Tonga's parliament to consider a motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni.

Sato Kilman has been elected as the new prime minister of Vanuatu.

Tonga's parliament is considering a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Siaosi  Sovaleni.

The Pacific's largest mobile phone operator Digicel has likely been used by private spy firms.

Pacific Islanders now make up 1.26 per cent of Australia's population, but the community is lagging behind when it comes to accessing higher education. 

Surangel Whipps junior wants more people to visit the country and experience their 'vegetarian sharks'.

Fiji's under-23 men's national side will face PNG in a do-or-die clash this weekend

Papua New Guinea Football Association comes under fire for failing to send it under-23 national team to New Zealand in time for the OFC men's Olympic qualifying tournament. Also, Vanuatu's beach volleyballers compete for an Olympic berth at the Continental Cup.

A ticket to Tokyo will be at stake for Vanuatu's beach volleyball teams this week.

A chance to feature at the ICC T20 Women's World Cup is currently up for grabs in Vanuatu.

A chorus of condemnation has been levelled at the Papua New Guinea Football Association, after it failed to attain travel visas for PNG's under-23 men's soccer team.

A festival of football is brewing in Port Moresby, which will host the nations top local men and women's teams in a double header grand final.

Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has again raised deep concerns about the exodus of Pacific workers to Australia and New Zealand, arguing that countries like hers should not be seen merely as "outposts" which "grow" labourers for developed nations.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum will be held on the 14th of October. The Prime Minister has described it as a once in a generation chance to vote for recognition, while campaigners against the Voice are urging Australians to vote No. Pacific communities in Australia have described the referendum as an important moment for fighting racism. FEATURED: Jioji Rovulo, professor and chair of Social Work and Policy Studies at the University of Sydney. Bella Swan, the Pacific Communities Council Far North Queensland

Solomon Islands will introduce a ban on single-use plastics from Friday. 

A political scientist says Papua New Guinea's move to open an embassy in Jerusalem may influence other Pacific nations to recognise the city.

Five prisoners were killed and 42 escaped during a violent jailbreak in the Southern Highlands which led to a pastor and warder being taken hostage.

Scientists have discovered nuclear contamination in the shells of turtles in the Marshall Islands, suggesting they may have survived 20th-century nuclear testing.

The head of Papua New Guinea's prisons is urging dozens of escaped convicts to return to jail after five were killed during a major jailbreak.

Vanuatu's prime minister is appealing a Supreme Court ruling that has effectively ended his time in office. But the country's Finance Minister John Salong is urging opposition MPs to work with government for the sake of Vanuatu's stability.

There's concern Pacific fisheries may face a reputational fallout after Japan began discharging treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant last week.

Vanuatu's Finance Minister has urged the country's MPs to work together as Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau battles moves to oust him. 

Tongan PM The leadership of Tongan PMHu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni has been called into question.

Vanuatu politics will potentially reach another plot twist today.

The Rugby World Cup may be still be two weeks away but history was created on the rugby field at the weekend.

People from the remote Pacific Island of Banaba say they've been blindsided over an agreement to explore phosphate mining.

People from the remote Pacific Island of Banaba say they've been blindsided over an agreement to explore phosphate mining on the tiny atoll. Also, Experts say a conclusion to Vanuatu's political crisis draws near, following a second no-confidence  vote, which may have ended Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau's time in office.

Former Gold Coast Titans and St Helens coach Justin Holbrook replaces Stanley Tepend as new PNG Kumals coach. Also, a plan to create a national women's competition in PNG takes another step forward.

Vitalina Naikore is showing her try-scoring ability isn't just limited to one code.

A plan to create a national women's competition in PNG has taken another step forward.

A Tongan national player is about to get her opportunity on the professional stage.

Eighty medals is the number Solomon Islands ar shooting for at the Pacific Games

Star veteran Israel Folau might be out of the side, but younger players will hope to fill the void for Tonga.

Melanesian leaders will today decide on whether to grant a full membership to the United Liberation Movement for West Papua. It comes a day after Indonesian delegates walked out during an address by the head of the ULMWP.

Tuvalu's Finance Minister is among those calling for a stop to Japan's release of treated nuclear wastewater.

On the 25th of August 1994, the Australian Government formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct ethnic group in Australia with a distinctive culture and history.

Pacific Island leaders are in Port Vila today for the Melanesian Spearhead Group Leaders Summit, and will consider declaring a "region of peace and neutrality" amidst a geopolitical contest between China and the US.

Pacific leaders will today formulate their response to Japan's decision to begin discharging treated wastewater from the Fukushima power plant.

Pacific leaders prepare their response to Japan's decision to begin discharging treated wastewater from the Fukushima power plant. Also, Pacific Island leaders arrive in Vanuatu ahead of the Melanesian Spearhead Group Leaders Summit.

High-profile Fiji government minister Lyndah Tabuya has published a social media post saying she's not threatened by people stalking her home. 

Palau has become the first Pacific nation to completely ban vaping, with young people backing the move.

Papua New Guinea police say more than 60 people have been killed by tribal fighting in Enga province over the past month.

PNG police say more than 60 people have been killed by tribal fighting in the past month. A gruesome social media video shows the bodies of three "mercenaries" being dragged behind a ute at the weekend.

According to a 2023 US Report, Tonga is listed alongside Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu for not being members of an international protocol against human trafficking.

Communities in New Caledonia are trying to ward off fires by planting certain trees.

A fisheries meeting has heard a 60-million dollar dispute is putting Pacific solidarity under threat.

It's been well over a month since Mt Bagana in central Bougainville erupted, but the region is still in crisis.

Calls to make sure 750-million in relief funds reach flood-effected areas in Bougainville. Also, Solomon Islanders struggle through a Panadol shortage in some parts of the country.

'I can't get my blood pressure medication so I have to buy in bulk in Australia."

This year marks the 160th anniversary of the arrival of the first South Sea islanders to Queensland, Australia.

The PNG finals hopes have been dashed despite hot form heading into final game.

Papua New Guinea will co-host the Pacific Championship, a new international Rugby League tournament that could one day rival the State of Origin.

Tahiti and Hawaii remain the teams to beat, but other nations look to be on the rise.

The Matildas World Cup dream might be over, but the career of a young Fijian footballer might be about to take off.

The Australian government and NRL announce a new six-nation rugby league tournament in hopes of creating a ‘Pacific State of Origin.’ Also, Fiji’s first female professional footballer Trina Davis earns a trial A-League Women's club Wellington Phoenix.

Samoa's former prime minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, says jail sentences handed down to two men who tried to assassinate him in 2019 will discourage future violence against politicians.

Vanuatu’s Prime Minister survives a no-confidence vote on a technicality. But Ishmael Kalsakau's future in the top job is under question after Opposition MPs fail by a single vote to oust him. 

The influence of Australian Matildas player Mary Fowler continues to grow across the Pacific, as her performances stun audiences.

Pacific islanders are being invited to share their stories of the Pacific Games, as the sporting event celebrates 60 years since its first edition.

Tonga will offer dialysis treatment after setting up a centre for the first time.

Some Guam locals are warning that a new US missile defence system may expose them to danger in the event of an attack.

The Wan Squad from Papua New Guinea have starred at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship in the United States.

Locals in Hawaii say more should have been done to warn people ahead of the wildfires, which have so far claimed the lives of close to 100 people. Also, Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister calls on Australia to deliver on its election promise to allow 3000 Pacific Islanders to settle permanently in the country.

It's been 50 years since hip hop was first invented, and five decades on, the music has evolved into a truly global phenomenon. 

Locals in Hawaii say more should have been done to warn people ahead of deadly wildfires.

Australia's horticulture industry is warning changes to the Pacific Islander labour scheme could damage supplies of fresh fruit and vegetables, but many seasonal workers are in favour of the measures.

A deadly wildfire on the Hawaiian island of Maui has so far claimed the lives of 93 people.

Two Fijian soccer players have earnd a trial in one of the top women's competitions in the world.

Papua New Guinea's top rugby league season has reached the pointy end.

The Pacific Games investment comes under scrutiny after the Solomon Island’s national hospital runs out of bandages and bandages and Panadol. Also, Manu Samoa and the Flying Fijians name their final squads ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

The International Rugby League Committee has pushed back the next Rugby League World Cup by 12 months, as part of sweeping changes to the format of the tournament.

Manu Samoa and the Flying Fijians have joined the growing list of nations to name their final squads to take to the rugby world cup next month.

Vanuatu will come to a standstill today as MP's move to oust Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau in a no-confidence vote. But for the ordinary people, many are sick of the political 'monkey business'.

Members of the Rabi  Island community in Fiji gathered to celebrate their first World Indigenous Day summit

There are calls for Papua New Guinea to cancel the mining leases connected to a controversial, failed attempt at starting up the world's first deep-sea mining operation.

Vanuatu's Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau's future is uncertain as opposition MPs push for a no-confidence vote to remove him from office.

Papua New Guinea's Enga Province has been in the headlines of late because of violence and bloodshed but one village there is making positive news.

There are moves to add different flavours to kava in a bid to increase its popularity in non-Pacific markets.

Residents on the island of Gizo in Solomon Islands are urging their government to address the issue of stray dogs after a man was mauled to death.

The Australian government has updated its international development plan for the first time in a decade, with a focus on the Pacific.

For many Pacific families, rice is a part of everyday life, but with prices reaching their highest point in almost 12 years, there is concern about people's ability to continue purchasing the important staple food.

Residents on the island of Gizo in Solomon Islands are urging their government to step in and address the issue of stray dogs after a young man was mauled to death last week.

The number of US military personnel arriving on Guam is increasing the risk of homelessness among Pacific Islanders. Also, the village of Mary Fowler's mother in Papua New Guinea turns green and gold for the Women's World Cup.

The number of US military personnel arriving on Guam is increasing the risk of homelessness amongst Pacific Islanders, according to local advocates. 

A near-record cold snap has hit the Pacific islands, with Tonga's temperature dropping to 9.3 degrees celsius.

Transparency International has welcomed a government inquiry into Australia's regional processing procurement.

Fiji's former prime minister Frank Bainimarama may face jail time for interfering in a police investigation into corruption allegations at the University of the South Pacific.

Pacific Islanders are staying warm as parts of the region experience a near-record cold snap despite the northern hemisphere facing unprecedented heat.

Seventy-eight of Port Moresby's top under-14 and under-16 players are taking part in an eight-week pilot program aimed at preparing them for a career in professional football.

With the FIFA Women's World Cup playing out in Oceania, the man at the top of world football is using it as a chance to gauge the health of the game in the governing body's smallest confederation, the OFC.

Typhoon Mawar hasn't slowed Guam's men's basketball team, who are shooting for a third Pacific Games gold medal.

Tonga is through to the play-off stage of the Netball World Cup in Cape Town, facing host nation South Africa on Saturday.

Papua New Guinea has launched its first-ever junior youth academy as part of an effort to secure the nation an NRL license in the coming years. 

A 30-day state of emergency is in place as authorities grapple with a showdown between Papua New Guinea's banks and the sole energy provider.

A new report by the French government is warning that New Caledonia's lucrative nickel industry could be on the verge of collapse if changes to the industry are not made.

Pacific countries are fighting to protect their coral reefs on shoe-string budgets but with a looming El Nino raising fears of coral bleaching, experts say there's an urgent need for more funding.

Temukisa Siale never imagined she'd get involved in reef conservation, but three years ago, the young accountant was inspired to join a group of young people protecting marine life in Tuvalu.

Marshall Island's leaders are calling for a better response from the US to ongoing health and environmental problems caused by historical nuclear tests on Bikini and Enewetak atolls.

Marshall Island's leaders call for a better response from the US to ongoing health and environmental problems caused by historical nuclear tests on Bikini and Enewetak atolls. Also, a new study aims to uncover the effects of IVF on Pacific people.

A new study is underway to uncover the effects of In-vitro Fertilisation, better known as IVF, on Pacific people and how it could better serve them. 

Glitter, dancing and the sound of music filled the streets at Timor-Leste's Pride Parade last week.

Questions have been raised about the impartiality and credibility of journalism at one of Solomon Islands longest-running newspapers after it was revealed the paper received funding in return for favourable coverage.

The Papua New Guinea government has taken the extraordinary step of declaring a 30-day national emergency to try and ensure the country's aviation sector can keep flying.

Questions are raised about the credibility of journalism at one of the Solomon Islands' longest running newspapers after the Chinese Embassy gave the Solomon Star 140-thousand-dollars in funding in return for favourable coverage. Also, efforts speed up to get the results of the 2019 Bougainville independence referendum into PNG's parliament.

The era of global warming has ended and the era of global boiling has arrived — that was the message from United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres last week after July was declared the hottest month on record. 

The Pacific has been a magnet for high-level diplomatic visits in recent times — last week alone saw visits by the French President and both the US secretaries for state and defence.

Tonga finish in the top two of their group in the opening stage of the Netball World Cup, with their only loss coming against Group-A leaders Australia.

The chief medical officer of American Samoa's only hospital has resigned after claiming that a measles outbreak earlier this year was "fake".

The chief medical officer of American Samoa's only hospital has resigned after claiming that a measles outbreak earlier this year was fake. Also, high level diplomatic visits conclude in the Pacific.

For the first time in eight years, Manu Samoa has cracked the top 10 of the World Rugby men's rankings with their thrilling two-point win over Japan.

It will be a Pacific showdown when the Fiji Pearls and the Tonga Tala meet in the opening round of the Netball World Cup in Cape Town.

For the first time in a decade, Manu Samoa has made the top 10 of the world rankings after a win against Japan. Now they'll be up against the Flying Fijians this weekend who are on a high after a win against Tonga.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a new path for New Caledonia, which does not include independence. He's also revealed a doubling of French military presence in the region.

French President Emmanuel Macron says both pro-independence and anti-independence parties will have a say in the future of New Caledonia.

An Australian labour-hire firm accused of exploiting and abusing Pacific seasonal workers has exited the PALM scheme as the government investigates claims against the company

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has highlighted what he says is China's "increasingly problematic behaviour" in the Pacific region, while warning nations not to accept investments that compromise their independence.

The partial remains of 15 Australian World War II soldiers may never have been found if not for a Papua New Guinean landowner upgrading his property.

The ongoing dispute between the Bank of Papua New Guinea and Puma Energy over foreign exchange has reached a dramatic climax, with the country's head of police stepping in.

Australia's Minister to the Pacific has warned against political interference and disinformation during a speech in Solomon Islands.

French President Emmanuel Macron to outline a path forward for New Caledonia in a much-anticipated speech. Also, The ongoing dispute between the Bank of Papua New Guinea and Puma Energy over foreign exchange reaches a dramatic climax.

A failed Palau media deal has revealed the inner workings of China's efforts to exert influence in the Pacific.

Is the sheen is starting to wear off Fiame Naomi Mata'afa?

French President Emanuel Macron makes first visit to New Caledonia since referendums were held to determine whether the archipelago wanted independence from France. Also, Plans to start deep sea mining in the world's oceans suffer a setback.

French President Emmanuel Macron may be the highest profile visitor to the region this week.

Plans to start deep sea mining in the world's oceans have had a setback after the UN's International Seabed Authority failed to adopt new regulations at a recent council meeting in Jamaica.

French President Emmanuel Macron is in New Caledonia for his first visit since three referendums were held to determine whether the archipelago wants independence from France.

El Niño has arrived in the Pacific, and may bring with it three to four tropical cyclones later this year, according to Laitia Fifita, deputy director of the Tonga Meteorological Service.

Fiji and Manu Samoa are gathering momentum ahead of the Rugby World Cup after recording big wins in the opening round of the Pacific Nations Cup.

We unpack the legacy of the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, better known as RAMSI, on the 20th anniversary of the operation. Also, PNG's prime minister James Marape calls for an end to tribal fighting so that the country's second largest mine can reopen.

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister has called for an end to tribal fighting so the country's second-largest mine can reopen.

Preparations for this year's Rugby World Cup in South Africa will pick up a notch as the Ikale Tahi face off against the Flying Fijians.

Tonga's Ikale Tahi are in Lautoka this weekend to take on the Flying Fijians as  Japan plays host to Manu Samoa.

Papua New Guinea's Lae Biscuit Company has started a new partnership with NRL's Cronulla Sharks.

French President Emmanuel Macron announces visits to New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu in attempt to 'recommit' France to the region. Also, Nauru declares a state of disaster after an unexploded World War Two bomb is uncovered.

The seventh Melanesian Arts and Cultural festival is underway in Vanuatu.

An unexploded WW2 bomb has sparked a state of emergency on Nauru.

Vanuatu's Department of Biosecurity has described its recent "Cash for Beetle" program as a success and hopes to do similar campaigns in the future if finance is available.

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to land in the south-west of the Pacific next week, stopping in New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu to outline France's Indo-Pacific strategy.

Vanuatu's Reggae Massive festival has returned after being postponed due to cyclones Judy and Kevin.

Almost 3,000 former soldiers are suing Fiji's military for alleged unpaid allowances during peacekeeping missions.

More than 8,000 people are thought to have been displaced in Papua New Guinea's autonomous Bougainville region, as a volcano continues to spew ash and pyroclastic flow.

Both Fiji's men's and women's hockey5s teams have secured a spot at the Hockey5s World Cup in Oman next year after claiming bronze at the Oceania Cup qualifiers.

The prime minister of Solomon Islands says China has agreed to provide funding to prop up the country's troubled budget, and also accused Australia and development partners of suddenly withdrawing financial support worth millions of dollars.

The prime minister of Solomon Islands says China has agreed to provide funding to prop up the country's troubled budget, and also accused Australia and development partners of suddenly withdrawing financial support worth millions of dollars.

Fiji health authorities are grappling to contain a deadly outbreak of leptospirosis, which has killed 15 people and left thousands infected.

Fiji health authorities grapple to contain a deadly a deadly outbreak of leptospiroisis, which has killed 15 people and left thousands infected. Also, The International Atomic Energy Agency backs that it's safe to release treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.

A who's who of Tongan players assemble for the Ikale Tahi's milestone clash with Australia-A in Nuku'alofa.

Further efforts to strengthen Papua New Guinea's bid to join Australia's top rugby league competition, the NRL, will take place this week. Also, the Ikale Tahi unveils a star-studded line-up for their clash with Australia-A in Tonga.

The spotlight will shine squarely on the Oceania region when the FIFA Women's Football World Cup kicks off across Australia and New Zealand next week.

PNG's deputy PM has swooped in to save Lae City FC at the final hour.

It's do-or-die time for the Kaiviti Silktails in the NSW Ron Massey Cup.

Australia's health care sector has a serious problem when it comes to waste because it is heavily reliant on on single-use plastics. 

Scientists from Harvard University have collected fragments believed to be from the first interstellar object known to enter the Earth's atmosphere. 

Tune in each morning and afternoon to keep-up-to-date on the happenings in the Pacific.

Fiji is known for its tropical beauty and pristine waters but earlier this week Suva's Walu Bay turned an unatural shade of bright blue.

It's been more than 30 years since the Bougainville crisis ended, but for many families on the island, the conflict's impacts show no sign of disappearing. 

Tune in each morning and afternoon to keep-up-to-date on the happenings in the Pacific.

Australia has called for more transparency from China and Solomon Islands over the policing deal signed in Beijing which allows for a Chinese police presence in Solomon Islands until 2025. 

Vanuatu is making a last-ditch effort to halt deep-sea mining, just days after a landmark deadline opened the way for mining permits.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has promised to continue consulting with Pacific leaders following the planned release of treated nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean. 

Kiribati is celebrating its 44th anniversary of independence, and Secretary for Kiribati Waipounamu Inc, Randy Bakeua, wants people to know the country's indigenous name is Tungaru.

The family of one of the two soldiers who were shot dead during a training excercise in Papua New Guinea last week want to know why live ammunition was used instead of blanks.

Tune in each morning and afternoon to keep-up-to-date on the happenings in the Pacific.

Scientists have discovered an invasive leech in Fiji that could pose a threat to the country's "magic" freshwater snails.

A campaigner against a multi-level marketing firm banned by New Zealand authorities is calling on Australia to follow suit. 

In one remote community of Malaita province, Solomon Islands, 10,000 bees have recently taken up residence and local keepers-in-training are buzzing to get to work.

A Bangladeshi refugee living in Papua New Guinea says he fears for his safety after a confrontation with members of a local business association. 

Tune in each morning and afternoon to keep-up-to-date on the happenings in the Pacific.

The Fiji Pearls have completed a high-intensity training block with New Zealand professional club, the Central Pulse, in preparation for this month's Netball World Cup.

A big month is shaping up for Tonga as it celebrates 100 years of test rugby – Ikale Tahi will host Australia-A on the 14th in Nuku'alofa, marking the 50th anniversary of the team's 1973 win over the Wallabies.

The Fiji Pearls complete a high-intensity training block with New Zealand professional club, the Central Pulse, in preparation for this month's Netball World Cup. Also, Tonga Rugby Union celebrates its centenary ahead of the nation's test match with Australia-A.

International Australian Rules Football games are rare at the best of times, But that's what happened in Brisbane this week when the under 19 men's and women's teams from Papua New Guinea and Nauru faced off.

The Solomon Islands national futsal team gave Australia all they can handle in a 1-1 draw this week.

Indonesian president Joko Widodo meets with PNG prime minister James Marape in an effort to improve economic cooperation between the two countries. Also, frustration builds in Honiara as ongoing blackouts hamper small businesses.

The high-level diplomatic visits to Port Moresby continue, with Indonesia's President Joko Widodo the latest to meet with Prime Minister James Marape.

People in Honiara are getting frustrated after living with constant blackouts.

Samoa's highest court has ruled that parliament's suspension of former prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was unconstitutional.

Samoa's highest court rules that parliament's suspension of the former Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was unconstitutional. Also, West Papua launches a third attempt to join the Melanesian Spearhead group with the backing of Fiji prime minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

A new study in Vanuatu is focusing on methods of care for vulnerable infants.

The Melanesian Spearhead Group is set to meet for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, with leaders convening in Vanuatu.

Two researchers from the University of Waikato have received a $1 million grant from the Health Research Council to study kava as a way to treat those with trauma and PTSD.

A crew filming sharks in the Pacific recently got so close, they became the target of the very animals they were shooting.

A support centre in Fiji says more women are seeking help after being abandoned by spouses who are overseas on seasonal worker programs. Economist Neelesh Gounder says the Fiji government's budget should reduce the country's massive debt burden. And an adventure vlogger recounts his misadventure in the Pacific Ocean, drifting for 30 days without communications or GPS.

Tax reforms, including an increase to corporate tax rates and changes to VAT, are some of the measures the Fiji government is adopting to deal with its huge debt.

As more Pacific Islanders move to Australia for work, there are warnings about the impact on families back home.

Previously an assistant coach at two rugby world cups, this time Reverend Joji Rinakama has been drafted by the Flying Fijians to serve the players' spiritual and religious needs during the 2023 campaign.

Papua New Guinea's new Premier Soccer League is set to kick off with champion team Lae City absent and Football Association under fire over poor planning at club and international levels.

When the men's and women's under 19 AFL teams from Nauru and PNG clash in Brisbane, winning will be important, but so too will be the chance to impress watching Australian talent scouts. 

The sport of cricket has struggled in Fiji in recent years, but the performance of their men's under-19 team at the recent World Cup qualifying tournament in Darwin has sparked hope of rebirth. 

Drua's impact on Flying Fijians' World Cup selection plans, FRU wrestling with more financial woes, and the PNG FA under fire at local and national level - Tia Roko offers her views on the sporting subjects driving social medial commentary

A new era for soccer begins in PNG, with the revamped, renamed men's Premier Soccer League, but the reigning champions will be absent, And  Cricket Fiji hope their under 19 men's team's unexpected success at the recent World Cup qualifier will be the catalyst for a rebirth.

There are calls for the police and government to do more to catch a gang that's taking teenagers and women hostage in PNG.

Known as a symbol of change for generations of Fijians, the country's first female deputy prime minister, Taufa Vakatale, has died aged 85.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is warning people his government's first budget may be painful for some as it looks to tackle the country's huge debt burden.

Women in PNG demand police do more to catch a gang that's taking girls hostage, sexually assaulting them and holding them for ransom. Fiji's prime minister Sitiveni Rabuka warns people his government's first budget may be painful for some as it looks to tackle the country's high debt burden. And Taufa Vakatale is remembered as a pioneer for women in Fiji after a life of many firsts, including serving as the country's first female deputy prime minister.

Pacific museums seeking repatriation of human remains have been urged to drum up community support as part of their efforts.

Samoans are urged to use their family and village fonos – or meetings – to talk about topics, often considered taboo, such as mental health and suicide. Also, Australia's deputy prime minister flags the possibility of keeping police and troops in the Solomon Islands, beyond the Pacific Games.

In Australia, seasonal workers from Timor-Leste have been at the forefront of artificial technology, taking control of cutting-edge robot fruit-pickers.

Samoans are being urged to draw on their communities as the country battles to improve mental health and reduce rates of suicide.

Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles says his government is open to keeping police and troops in the Solomon Islands longer than planned if that's what the local government wants.

Fresh allegations have surfaced against Fijian retail giant, Carpenters Fiji Limited, after its managing director admitted to holding the passports of foreign workers. 

More concerns raised about the conduct of Carpenters in Fiji after its managing director said the company holds onto the passports of foreign workers. Victims of tribal violence in PNG are being helped to restart their lives by getting their personal identity documents back. And Vanuatu looks to grow its share of the Australian kava market.

A project has been launched in Papua New Guinea to restore the identity of villagers in PNG's highlands, who's documents were lost during tribal violence.

Vanuatu wants to move up the ladder of the Pacific countries exporting the most kava to Australia, which is three-quarters of the way through a trial allowing its commercial importation.

PNG's chief censor banns the music of popular New Ireland singer Jayrex, following complaint it was traumatising and emotionally triggering. Also, Pacific leaders come together in Sydney, to address concerns that standardised healthcare is failing their people.

Greenpeace vessel, the Rainbow Warrior, will set sail for the Pacific today as part of a global effort to take climate harm to the world's highest court.

Pacific leaders in Sydney have come together to find alternative modes of healthcare for their people who are being failed by standardised care.

Music produced by popular PNG artist Jayrex has been temporarily banned from the nation's airwaves, in a move that has left some members of the public confused and angry.

About 100 remains from Māori and Mori-ori ancestors are back in New Zealand, after more than a century in museum and university collections in Germany.

FRU in a hole, 2 x Women's State of Origin not good enough, Silktails rise as rugby league growth continues apace in Fiji - subjects under the microscope.

Tonga's big-name squad for the World Cup has set the rugby community speculating on what impact the Ikale Tahi might have now in France. 

It has been a disastrous week for the game of soccer in Papua New Guinea, with the women's team in danger of being excluded from the Under-19 Oceania Championship in Fiji and the men's team suffering their worst defeat.

William Lai intends to take a break, now his reign as head of the Solomon Islands Football Federation has come to an end. Lai says he's sad to go, but satisfied that he's leaving an organisation in very good shape. 

PNGFA in the firing line after a disastrous week for soccer in Papua New Guinea; and, despite the FRU being $3.5 million in debt, the man heading the operation to get Fiji Rugby Union back on track is confident it can be done, 

The Fiji Rugby Union's debt could be even larger than the confirmed figure of $3.5 million — but the chair of the organisation's trustees, Peter Mazey, remains confident that a new FRU will rise from the ashes.  

The Queensland men have claimed another State of Origin Crown, but the women still have work to do.

Health professionals are defending a new policy in Aotearoa New Zealand that prioritises Māori and Pacific Islanders for non-urgent surgeries; and, Queensland are the State of Origin rugby league champions for the second straight year.

Could a circular pig tusk spotted amid the world's most famous shipwreck be same the pig's tusk bracelet sent as a gift by Queen Emma from Papua New Guinea's New Britain to San Francisco in 1908?

The need for more sexual assault support is again being highlighted following the kidnappings and abuse of a group of women and girls in Papua New Guinea's highlands.

The Melanesian Arts and Culture Festival is returning for the first time since the COVID pandemic and organisers say it'll be bigger and better than ever before.

The best way to enjoy Kava can differ from country to country, but a couple in New Zealand has found a new use for it.

International students on certain Australian visas are at times facing hefty medical bills if their health insurance does not cover them for certain illnesses.

A coalition of human rights organisations is calling for a public inquiry into gender equity in sports across Fiji after revelations the national women's rugby team have not been fully paid by the Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board.

The need for more sexual assault support highlighted following PNG kidnappings and abuse of a group of women and girls in Papua New Guinea's highlands; and, predictions the return of the Melanesian Arts and Culture Festival will be the biggest post-covid festival in the Pacific. 

Jenelyn Kennedy's family want her to be remembered as a beacon of hope for women across Papua New Guinea as court finds her husband guilty of her murder. Also, a comic book artist has imagined his own Samoan Spider-Woman,  Elisapeta "Peta" Lalaga" aka Web Weaver. 

Jenelyn Kennedy's family want her to be remembered as a loving mother, a beloved daughter and a beacon of hope for women across Papua New Guinea.

Overfishing and the collection and sale of shark fins are driving reef sharks toward extinction, according to scientists, with five main shark species that live on coral reefs depleted globally by an average of 63 per cent.

Spinning together a friendly neighbourhood superhero and Samoan culture, the imagining of a Samoan Spider-Woman has received lots of praise online.

Papua New Guinea is mourning the death of one of its captains of industry, Sir Kostas Constantinou. 

From the seas of Melanesia to the reefs of Far North Queensland — a successful reef guardianship program rolled out in Papua New Guinea is now testing the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Palau's president convinced of Japan's plans to dump treated nuclear wastewater into the Pacific following visit to the Fukushima plant; and, Guam authorities deal with an outbreak of COVID and flu in evacuation centres following super typhoon Mawar.

A documentary about Vanuatu culture could be in the works following a visit to Chins from Vanuatu's Council of Chiefs.

Authorities are dealing with an outbreak of flu and COVID-19 among residents in evacuation centres following Typhoon Mawar. 

The dream of Papua New Guinea one day fielding an NRL team of its own could be edging closer to reality, as the league moves towards an expanded competition by 2026.

While the FRU insists that all payments due to Fijiana players have been completed, national captain Sereima Leweniqila has her doubts and says the top women players are still not being treated fairly.

It took Vanuatu's captain Brian Kaltak more than a decade to break into the professional soccer ranks, but the hope is his outstanding success in the Australian A-League will smooth the way for other island players to follow.

AFL is growing as a sport in Tonga, and there are ambitious plans to raise funds to construct a purpose-built stadium where the game can be showcased.

Sports writer and social media forum moderator Tia Roko takes a look at the big stories that have been generating posts and comments in recent days. 

17-year-old JJ Rice has his eye on an Olympic place in kiteboarding in Paris next year, and the young Tongan could be carrying his nation's flag.

The release date of treated nuclear water from Japan's Fukushima power plant into the Pacific Ocean is moving closer, though the debate on whether it's safe to do so is continuing.

The US military will get unimpeded access to key PNG defence facilities as part of a new security agreement.

The Prime Minister of Cook Islands is scheduled to give evidence on Thursday in a high-profile criminal trial against former senior members of government. 

There have been grumblings among members of Fiji's Social Democratic Liberal Party over what they see as unfulfilled promises, but the coalition parties insist it will last its four-year term.

A Pasifika welfare worker has welcomed new changes to the Pacific worker program, but questions how the guidelines will be policed.  

Professor Biman Prasad reignited the calls for visa-free travel, saying it should not be easier for Lithuanians to enter Australia than it is for Fijians. Also, unions and farmers clash over changes to the way Pacific workers are employed on Australian farms.

Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad re-ignites the calls for visa-free travel between Australia, New Zealand and Pacific island states during a speech at the Pacific Update Conference in Suva this week. 

The head of an official investigation into Vanuatu's controversial citizenship by investment scheme says there will be no "sugar-coating" in its final report.

If you've ever uncharacteristically purchased something online, you may be a victim of 'dark patterns.'

Former PNG prime minister Peter O'Neill is charged with giving false evidence under oath, following an inquiry into a more than $1 billion loan from the Union Bank of Switzerland in 2014. And a migration agent is "pleading" with the Australian government to refund the cost of her New Zealand clients' permanent resident visas,

Former PNG prime minister Peter O'Neill charged for allegedly giving false evidence at inquiry into $1 billion loan

Home Affairs facing growing calls to refund Kiwis over permanent resident visa 'money grab'

Bigger waves caused by shifting pole winds in deep oceans are set to affect shorelines, including the Pacific, as temperatures increase due to climate change.

After Fiji Drua stunned the Crusaders in a round-three upset, there were hopes they could pull it off again when they faced the defending champions over the weekend — and although it wasn't to be, there was plenty of pride and excitement.

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister has moved to calm the public after outrage erupted over a rainbow flag raised at the US embassy, but one human rights activist said he was glad it was raised.

Public outrage erupts over a rainbow flag raised at the US Embassy, prompting calls for PNG's leaders to do more to support the LGBTQ community. Also, scores of people in Guam remain without power, as the territory continues to rebuild from Super Typhoon Mawar.

In Guam, scores of people are still without power and water after Super Typhoon Mawar swept over the area a couple of weeks ago.

How a women's rights advocate used fashion design to help others speak out 

He was joint top scorer and voted the most valuable player at the recent Melanesian Cup futsal tournament in Fiji, and now Solomon Islands' Calvin Do'oro is about to start a professional career in China.

The Fijian Drua go into their first-ever Super Rugby Pacific finals match against the Crusaders in a confident mood, having already defeated the reigning champions during the home and away season. 

As the impact of Pasifika athletes on Australian sport continues to grow, large question marks remain over the management of player welfare and cultural needs.

Vanuatu's young cricketers may have been starved of competitive action recently, but they're fired up and ready to go at the East Asia-Pacific Under 19 World Cup qualifier in Darwin. 

There is nothing wrong with the timeline for a security treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea being pushed back, according to a PNG political analyst.

According to new research, warming temperatures will see nearly 80 per cent of coral in reefs diseased in the next 80 years, and the Pacific Ocean will be the worst affected.

A conference bringing together 300 gender equality advocates from the region has wrapped up.

To mark World Oceans Day, the World Bank has released a report highlighting some of the dangers passengers take trying to cross Pacific waters, and what can be done to solve them.

A parliamentary speech from PNG's sidelined foreign minister Justin Tkatchenko prompts MPs to walk out. Also, Papua New Guinea's decision to postpone a security treaty with Australia might be a sensible course of action, argues one security analyst.

Tonga will become the first Pacific country to experiment with wave technology.

In Samoa Robert Louis Stevenson was known as "Tusitala - the teller of tales'".

A technical glitch has impacted PNG's largest superannuation fund NASFUND.

Some women from culturally diverse backgrounds in Australia are more at risk of developing some pregnancy complications.

Vanuatu's Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau told Defence Minister Richard Marles the National Security Council was going over the details of the deal, which would come to parliament before the end of the year.

Vanuatu says security deal with Australia will be ratified before the end of the year during Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles' two day visit; and, a technical glitch hampers one of Papua New Guinea's largest superannuation funds.

The Australian government is set to propose law reforms that would target migrant worker exploitation, including jail time for offending employers.

The man who laid the complaint that led to PNG's biggest corruption prosecution says he has no regrets despite having to leave the country for his family's safety.

Former PNG solicitor general Neville Devete says he has no regrets over speaking out about suspicious payments of state money being made to the country's biggest law firm in 2012. Also, the Australian government proposes new law reforms to tackle migrant worker exploitation.

Growing flowers started off as a hobby for former oil and gas worker Vicky Narere, but she soon found a massive market somewhat unique to her new home in PNG's Eastern Highlands.

Vanuatu's Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu tells Australia to stop subsidising new fossil fuel projects and instead put that money into renewable energy projects, and Samoa's Manusina win the Oceania Rugby Women's Championships. 

Vanuatu's Climate Minister Ralph Regenvanu has accused Australia of not recognising the Pacific's biggest security threat — climate change.

Many writers in the pacific can struggle to get published, often faced with cultural barriers, low pay or ignorance on the part of editors.

Vanuatu will use blockchain technology to send relief funds to families.

Samoa Manusina will be the highest-ranked Pacific team at the World Rugby WXV competition after upsetting Fijiana.

The Pacific will be represented in the Super Rugby playoffs for the first time after the Fiji Drua thrashed the Queensland Reds in Suva.

Vanuatu's Brian Kaltak looks to cap off his first A-league season with a grand final win against Melbourne City on Saturday. Also, the first ever OFC women's champion league tournament kicks off in Papua New Guinea.

An Australian coach will take over at Vanuatu Cricket

Grassroots rugby union in Australia often struggles to attract new players to the game, but one Queensland club celebrating their 40th anniversary may have found an answer to that problem.

Australian-Samoan Jordan Mailata proved American Football stardom wasn't out of reach for a Pacific-born player with a league background, and now the NFL is making moves to ensure that talent no longer slips through the cracks.

Brian Kaltak will look to cap off a fairytale season in the A-League grand final on Saturday.

Fijiana and Manusina Samoa have continued their dominant form at the Oceania Women's Rugby Championship on the Gold Coast, going undefeated to set up a winner-takes-all final against each other on Sunday.

Recent reports say pharmacy shortages at the Port Moresby General Hospital — including shortages of basic drugs like Panadol and equipment like gloves — mean many people are not receiving adequate medical treatment.

The former head of PNG's now defunct anti-corruption task force says the successful prosecution of a high profile lawyer for stealing vast amounts of state money vindicates the work of his team. And Fijian coup leader George Speight may be released on a Presidential pardon as early as a month from now, 23 years after his attempted takeover of the country's government.

Official results from Timor-Leste's national election will be announced over the next few days, but negotiations over forming a government are still ongoing. 

A pilot is still waiting for a $5.6 million payment following a crash in PNG in 2006.

A youth climate justice handbook has been launched to help states make submissions on behalf of young people to the world's highest court — the International Court of Justice — on the issue of climate change.

Some 120 organisations sign a joint resolution to "steadfastly support" the Indigenous Voice to Parliament by voting Yes in the referendum to be held later this year.

Fijian author, Gina Cole, is inventing a new style of "Pasifika-inspired sci-fi" to showcase Pacific cultures.

More than 100 of Australia's cultural and ethnic organisations, including those representing Pacific Islanders, have signed a joint resolution to back the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. And a new genre of fiction, Pasifikafuturism, provides a Pacific Islander perspective to science fiction.

South Korea pledges to double aid to the Pacific as regional leaders meet in Seoul, but the Korean government is opting for a more neutral stance on the release of treated wastewater from Japan's Fukushima nuclear reactor.

For the first time, South Korea has hosted a summit with Pacific leaders in what its President says marks a new beginning of cooperation between Korea and the region.

A 42-year-old man killed by a shark while spearfishing in New Caledonia has brought renewed attention to a spate of shark attacks gripping the French Pacific territory.

A week after the people of Guam were hit by Typhoon Mawar, the island is starting to recover — but there are still tough times ahead.

A delegation from New Zealand is on a multi-city tour in Germany to bring home more than 100 Maori and Moriori remains looted or traded during colonial times.

A veteran climate negotiator says the appointment of an oil industry executive as president of the next UN climate conference makes a "mockery of the talks".

The trend of "informal finance", or "loan sharking" as it is sometimes known, is rising in Papua New Guinea and the neighbouring Solomon Islands.

A multi-nation alert issued last week alleged a Chinese cyber-espionage campaign had been aimed at military and government targets in the United States territory.

Concerns that people in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands are increasingly falling prey to loan sharks with exorbitant interest rates.

The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi helped launch a Tok Pisin translation of the classic Tamil book 'Thirukkural'. 

Moana Pasifika's CEO denies there is a rift between the players and soon to depart coach Aaron Mauger. Pelenato Sakalia says despite their long winless run, the Super Rugby Pacific franchise is making progress.

Manusina Samoa's Head Coach Ramsey Tomokino says he's preparing the way for his female assistants to take charge of the team. Meanwhile they are focussed on the Oceania Championship and securing a place in the new global WXV competition.

Suva FC targeting historic win over Auckland City in OFC Champions League, meanwhile as Samoa's Lupe ole Soaga face scrutiny by OFC's Disciplinary and Ethics Committee, the club are considering turning their back on the region's premier competition.

Their coach is leaving, the team can't win, and the fans are not turning up to watch. But exactly how big a crisis are Moana Pasifika facing, and what can be done to solve their problems?    

Lupe ole Soaga are considering turning their back on the OFC Champions League. Floored by player regulations and hit with rising costs, the Samoan club says taking part may not be a viable option for them in future. 

No Fijian side has ever won the OFC Champions League, but Suva FC believe they have the right mix to topple perennial winners Auckland City 

National Geographic launches an unprecedented five-year expedition into the Pacific region, aiming to research everything from the smallest algae to the largest sharks in a bid to create more protected areas.

New Caledonia's nickel could power the world's electric vehicles, but Kanak unions warn those looking to invest that miners must respect the wishes of traditional owners.

Tropical storm winds continue to batter Guam, as authorities urge residents to remain in shelters hours after Super Typhoon Mawar made landfall on the US territory.

A vicious parasitic mite is causing havoc to bees around the world, including those in the Pacific, and the region's beekeeping industry wants to do something about it.

Guam authorities are surveying the damage wrought by powerful Typhoon Mawar amid reports of fallen trees, walls and power lines, and extensive flooding. Also, National Geographic launches an unprecedented 5-year expedition into the Pacific.

Timor-Leste's independence hero and first president Xanana Gusmao wins the country's election for his party, but fails to reach an outright majority. Also, Papua New Guinea's prime minister James Marape assures his people that a new security pact with the United States will not threaten sovereignty.

Prime Minister James Marape has assured people a new security pact with the United States will not undermine Papua New Guinea's sovereignty or security, and that it will be made available to the public.

A Canadian couple sailing the waters of French Polynesia were forced to make their own makeshift rudder after it fell off their boat more than 1,000 kilometres from shore.

The result of Sunday's election paves the way for a return to power for the 76-year-old Xanana Gusmao, Timor-Leste's first president, if he can form a coalition.

Fiji's highest chiefly political body, the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) will reconvene today for the first time in 16 years. 

Writer, producer and actor Gemma Bird Matheson recently wrapped filming season two of ABC's The PM's Daughter, and says she first came to writing as a way to create characters that looked more like her.

Papua New Guinea and opens its door for an US increased military presence after agreeing to new defence pact. Also, an expected category 3 typhoon closes in on the northern Pacific.

Guam and parts of the Northern Marianas could be in the firing line of a category three typhoon, with fears of damaging winds and heavy rain.

The family of Tongan and Samoan singer Iam Tongi say they are incredibly proud after the 18-year-old was crowned the next American Idol.

A new edition of a book documenting the history and importance of Samoan tattooing has been released more than a decade after it was first published.

India's Prime Minister and leaders from more than a dozen Pacific Island nations are in Papua New Guinea for a high level summit. 

Twenty-four politicians from Fiji's main opposition party, Fiji First, have been barred from sitting in parliament after its registration was suspended.

India's Prime Minister and leaders from more than a dozen Pacific Island nations arrive in PNG for a high-level summit. Also, questions over the future of Fiji's opposition party, Fiji First, after 24 of its MPs are barred from parliament.

Tonga will be one of four teams competing for the 12th and final place in the new look World Sevens core group next season, as the current series wraps up in London this weekend. Meanwhile, Tonga's former men's XV captain hits out at World Rugby over governance failings.

Junior Bula Boys out to do Fiji proud at FIFA Under 20 World Cup, and to further their own prospects of a pro career. 

The former captain of Tonga's national men's XV, Inoke Afeaki, has come out swinging at World Rugby, accusing them of failing to deal effectively with governance issues in the Pacific. 

There are still three semi-final spots up for grabs going into the last round of group games at the OFC Champions League tournament in Vanuatu. 

The Chairman of the Vanuatu Sports Commission says a break down in communications with the national tennis federation is behind the dispute over the use of courts at Korman Stadium

Tonga stand on the verge of claiming a place in the core group for next season's World Rugby 7s series.

A new license has led to an increase in the number of tropical fish traders operating in New Caledonia, and while some believe it will promote sustainable fishing, experts say it needs to be monitored and caps should be placed on endemic species. 

It was supposed to be the first visit to a Pacific country by a sitting US President, but the historic meeting was cancelled before it even began.

The former owner of the Northern Queensland Fury football club, Don Matheson, is now at the centre of a joint investigation between Papua New Guinea police, Interpol, and Australian authorities.

Amid claims the music is losing its political edge, modern Kaneka artists are innovating to ensure their sounds and messages continue to be heard by new generations.

Papuan New Guinea citizens speak out following US president Joe Biden’s decision to cancel his visit. Also, PNG police investigate the dealings of an Australian entrepreneur embroiled in a payments scandal with the country's ports officials.

New Zealanders in Australia have accused the Department of Home Affairs of a cash grab, saying their permanent visa applications appear to have been fast-tracked just months before it was announced they would not be required to become citizens.

Voters are dancing and singing on the streets of Dili as the country prepares to vote in an upcoming national election.

The Prime Minister of Vanuatu throws aside what he calls "absurd" accusations that he is undermining the country's independence, and a ship anchor severs internet connection to Solomon Islands' provinces.