Photo : Rane

PNG faces a persistent issue of money laundering, reports RNZ

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 31 May 2025, Saturday | Vol.2 No. 111
PNG faces a persistent issue of money laundering, reports RNZ
On 31 May, RNZ reported that Papua New Guinea (PNG) is under urgent pressure to strengthen its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CTF) systems. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has given PNG until October 2025 to fix critical deficiencies or face being placed on its “grey list,” a status indicating increased monitoring. Such a designation could severely impact PNG’s economy, trade, and international reputation. Prime Minister James Marape has appointed Treasury Minister Ian Ling-Stuckey to lead a national taskforce to address the lapses. Marape stressed the urgency of the matter, saying that agency heads have been directed to work relentlessly to avoid greylisting. Although PNG was previously greylisted in 2014, it was removed in 2016 after regulatory improvements. However, a recent review by the Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) shows that while laws exist, enforcement remains weak. The key challenge lies in the implementation of laws. Prosecutions and convictions for financial crimes remain rare, and critical enforcement agencies face shortages of staff, training, and coordination. Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane warned that greylisting could undermine investor confidence, raise the cost of imports, and delay major projects like Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu. The looming FATF deadline gives PNG a narrow window to demonstrate real and sustained progress. Without meaningful enforcement, technical compliance alone will not suffice. The outcome of this push will likely define PNG’s economic direction and international financial credibility for years to come. In Parliament, Marape, acknowledging the urgency, said: “I summoned all agency heads to a critical meeting... They must work day and night to avert greylisting.” (Scott Waide, “PNG faces deadline for fixing issues with money laundering and terrorist financing,” RNZ, 31 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 30 May 2025, Friday | Vol.2 No. 110
One China policy upheld at the Pacific Island countries ministerial meeting
On 29 May, ABC reported that at a high-profile meeting in Xiamen, Pacific nations expressed support for China's One-China policy, recognizing Taiwan as part of China's territory, but stopped short of endorsing Beijing's reunification agenda. The joint statement highlighted “understanding and support” for China’s national reunification efforts, reflecting a softer diplomatic stance. Analysts note that while China seeks stronger international backing on Taiwan, Pacific nations remain cautious, especially as countries like Palau, Tuvalu, and the Marshall Islands, which support Taiwan, did not attend. China used the forum to position itself as a key regional partner, pledging climate aid, infrastructure development, and support for disaster management. Foreign Minister Wang Yi also criticized the Trump administration for abandoning the Paris Agreement, contrasting China’s ongoing commitment to climate leadership. Although Beijing promoted increased policing cooperation, the joint statement did not endorse it directly. Experts suggest China is exploiting gaps left by US disengagement, but regional trust remains mixed. Pacific nations, facing economic vulnerabilities and mounting debt to China, are balancing economic needs with geopolitical caution. (Stephen Dziedzic, “Pacific Island nations support China's Taiwan claims at high-profile foreign ministers' meeting,” ABC, 29 May 2025)
 
Commander of US Indo-Pacific visits Malaysia
On 29 May, US Indo-Pacific Command reported that the Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, visited Malaysia from 28 May to 29 May, reinforcing the strategic importance of US-Malaysia relations and Washington’s broader commitment to the Indo-Pacific. His visit included high-level meetings with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin, where they reaffirmed robust defense cooperation through joint exercises, expert exchanges, and shared efforts in maritime domain awareness. The visit highlighted ongoing military engagements, such as the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025, where over 400 US personnel showcased support for Malaysia’s defense modernization. Paparo also took part in ceremonial events at the Ministry of Defence and honored fallen soldiers at the Tugu Negara National Monument. The US-Malaysia partnership, now spanning 68 years, continues to prioritize regional prosperity, stability, and security. USINDOPACOM emphasized its enduring mission to deter aggression and ensure peace in the Indo-Pacific through multilateral cooperation and military readiness. (U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, “U.S. Indo-Pacific Commander Travels to Malaysia,” USINDOPACOM, 29 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 29 May 2025, Thursday | Vol.2 No. 109
UK Consul-General visits Northern Mariana
On 29 May, RNZ reported that UK Consul-General Paul Rennie recently visited the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Guam, marking the first official trip by a UK diplomat of his rank to the region. Rennie described the three-day visit as “overdue” yet vital, emphasizing the UK’s interest in strengthening ties with Pacific Island communities. During his stay in the CNMI, Rennie met with key local leaders, including Lieutenant Governor David Apatang, Senate President Dennis Mendiola, and Saipan Mayor Ramon Camacho. Rennie said: “This was the first visit in history by a serving British Consul-General. While we've had British military visiting the islands before - such as [the ship] HMS Queen Elizabeth in 2021 - it was important for me to show that we value this relationship across a wider spectrum of areas.” Drawing parallels with Scotland’s remote islands, he suggested collaborative opportunities in green energy, small business growth, aquaculture, and logistics innovations like drone deliveries. In particular, he noted the potential use of unmanned aerial drones, currently tested in Scotland, for transporting mail and medical supplies to remote CNMI communities such as Rota and the Northern Islands. Rennie stressed that the visit was not merely symbolic but aimed at exploring tangible partnerships. His office plans to further UK engagement in areas like renewable energy, broadband infrastructure, and entrepreneurial development in the US Pacific territories. (Mark Robango, “UK Consul-General visits Northern Marianas, highlights shared island priorities and future partnerships,” RNZ, 29 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 28 May 2025, Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 108
China is sparking a growing debt crisis in the Pacific, reports the Lowy Institute
On 28 May, Australia’s Lowy Institute reveals that China has become the largest creditor to developing nations, with at least USD 54 billion in repayments due in 2025 alone. While loans under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) supported infrastructure projects across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, they have now created severe debt burdens for many low-income countries. The expiration of grace periods and delayed repayments during the COVID-19 pandemic have triggered a financial crunch. Countries like Tonga, which owes China nearly 25% of its GDP, face compounded challenges due to natural disasters and fiscal strain. China's reluctance to forgive debt, despite offering deadline extensions, has placed it in a diplomatic bind, risking relationships or jeopardizing its own financial institutions. Comparisons are being drawn to the 1980s Latin America’s debt crisis, warning of a potential “Lost Decade” for today’s borrowers if restructuring is not pursued. Australia has offered aid, including USD 85 million to Tonga, while calls grow for China to adopt more transparent and sustainable lending practices. China defends its policies, blaming Western institutions for misrepresenting facts. The report underscores China's shift from investor to debt collector, with significant implications for global development, diplomacy, and financial stability in the developing world. (Stephen Dziedzic, “Lowy report finds Pacific nations 'grappling with a tidal wave of debt repayments' to China”, ABC News, 28 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 27 May 2025, Tuesday | Vol.2 No. 107
Call for UN action against illegal logging in Papua New Guinea
On 27 May, RNZ, the UN Committee received appeals from watchdog groups ACT NOW and Jubilee Australia on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to address human rights abuses concerning illegal logging in Papua New Guinea (PNG). ACT NOW campaign manager Eddie Tanago stated customary landowners are suffering "pervasive, ongoing and irreparable harm" as their forests are stolen through fraudulent logging schemes like Special Agriculture and Business Leases (SABLs) and Forest Clearing Authorities (FCAs). Despite a Commission of Inquiry over a decade ago, PNG’s government has failed to cancel illegal SABLs or stop expanding FCAs. Logging companies have earned hundreds of millions, possibly billions, but landowners remain unaware of leases, boundaries, or profits due to a lack of transparency. Tanago also stated that foreign companies have gained profit through imports to countries that accept illegal timber. He has urged them to stop importing timber from SABL and FCA areas and to demand permit audits, stressing that this is systematic exploitation, not poor law enforcement. (“Plea for UN intervention over illegal PNG logging,” RNZ, 27 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 26 May 2025, Monday | Vol.2 No. 106
China to host China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers Meeting
On 26 May, RNZ reports that foreign ministers from Pacific Islands will be gathering in Fujian province of China, for the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi will chair the meeting in Xiamen scheduled for 28-29 May, which the China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted “it will be the first of its kind to be held offline in China.” At the daily news briefing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated to reporters on 21 May that foreign ministers or representatives from 11 island countries that have diplomatic relations with China, and the Pacific Islands Forum deputy secretary general Esala Nayasi, would also attend the meeting. Mao stated that the participants would participate in in-depth exchanges of views on all-round cooperation between China and Pacific Island countries, as well as on international and regional issues of mutual interest. She also noted that the objective of the meeting was to jointly build an even closer China-Pacific Island countries community with a shared future. (China to host Pacific foreign ministers for first in-person summit in Xiamen, RNZ, 26 May 2025)
 
China’s Ambassador to Australia criticizes the return of Darwin Port to Australia
On 26 May, Reuters reported that China's Ambassador to Australia criticised the Australian government’s intention to return Darwin Port to local ownership, stating the Chinese company running the strategically located northern port should not be punished. Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, stated in April during the election campaign that his government was working on a plan to force the sale of Darwin Port from its Chinese owner on national interest grounds. Australia sold the commercial port on a 99-year lease to the Chinese company Landbridge in 2015, a move that was criticised by the US president at the time, Barack Obama. China’s Ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, stated that the Landbridge Group had invested in the port and contributed to the local economy, according to a statement on Sunday by the Chinese embassy. Qian said: “Such an enterprise and project deserves encouragement, not punishment. It is ethically questionable to lease the port when it was unprofitable and then seek to reclaim it once it becomes profitable.” Albanese stated in an Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio interview in April that his government wants the port to “be in Australian hands,” and would directly intervene and buy the port if it were unable to find a private buyer. (Chinese ambassador criticises plan to return Darwin Port to Australian ownership, Reuters, 26 May 2025)
 
Bougainville’s electoral commission kickstarts voter registration
On 26 May, the Office of the Bougainville Electoral Commissioner (OBEC) began the formal process of voter registration and enrolment in the North Bougainville region, which is set to be conducted on 02 September 2025. OBEC announced except for the Atolls and Nissan constituencies, for which voter enrolment dates have not yet been confirmed, other parts of the North Bougainville region are currently in the process of updating their electoral rolls within the constituencies. The Electoral Commissioner Desmond Tsianai said: “So far, we are currently conducting the voter enrolment exercise in Haku, Halia, Hagogohe, Tsitalato, Peit, Tonsu, Selau, Suir, Toanita Teop, Toanita Tinputz, Mahari, Teua and Kerieka Constituencies in the North Bougainville region.” He also noted that it is also important that every eligible voter must make sure that their details are accurately written and that they must request an update if needed. Voter enrolment activities will end on 07 July, which is the date set for the issue of the writ for the 2025 Bougainville General Elections. (Bougainvilleans urged to register to vote as voter enrolment kicks off, RNZ, 25 May 2025)

Fiji struggles to retain its teachers, reports RNZ
On 26 May, RNZ reported on Fiji’s Finance Minister stating that they cannot compete with Australia and New Zealand to retain their teachers. The Fijian education system is facing major challenges as the coalition government struggles to address a teacher shortage. While the education sector receives a significant chunk of the budget (approximately NZD 587 million), it has not been sufficient, as global demand for skilled teachers is prompting qualified Fijian educators towards better prospects and brighter futures. Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad expressed to the Pacific Waves on the sidelines of the University of the South Pacific Council meeting in Auckland last week, "The government has put in measures, we are training enough teachers, but we are also losing teachers to Australia and New Zealand," Meanwhile, the Fijian government is currently undertaking a review of the Education Act 1966. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro announced in parliament last month that a draft bill is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet in July. (Lydia Lewis, Fiji can't compete with Australia and NZ on teacher salaries - Deputy PM, RNZ, 26 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 23 May 2025, Friday | Vol.2 No. 105
Papua New Guinea government to remove GST on 13 essential items
On 22 May, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape said his government will remove the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on 13 essential household items. This commitment made in last year’s budget will take effect from 01 June 2025. Marape stated that these tax reforms are a part of relief measures to support struggling families. He further noted that, “These include removing project fees from schools, paying tuition fees for elementary to secondary education, supporting higher education through the Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP), and offering scholarships for high-performing students to study overseas. We've also provided tax relief by raising the income threshold for non-taxable earnings to K20,000.” From next year onwards, the government will remove 10 per cent GST from first-time home buyers. (“PNG government on track to remove GST on 13 essential items” RNZ, 22 May 2025)
 
New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister warns against the Pacific becoming a military zone
On 21 May, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated that the Pacific must not become a “military zone” in an interview. He shared his concerns amid China’s growing influence in the region. He stated that, “But the reality is, as the geostrategic shape of the world changes, we do not want the Pacific to become the grounds for competition.” Despite having a strong relationship with China, Peters said New Zealand was concerned about recent developments, including a secretive China–Cook Islands deal and unexpected Chinese military drills in the Tasman Sea. These actions have alarmed both New Zealand and Australia. Peters noted this is the most uncertain time globally in 80 years and emphasised the need for face-to-face diplomacy with Pacific nations. Defence and security in the Pacific will be a top priority when Winston Peters and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong meet in Adelaide this Friday. Peters stressed that open dialogue with China is key, saying, “If you can’t talk frankly to them, it’s not a great relationship.” (Eva corlett,” Pacific must not become a ‘military zone’ amid rise of China, New Zealand’s deputy PM warns,” The Guardian, 21 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 21 May 2025, Tuesday & Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 104
Papua New Guinea landowner groups shut down Oil Palm Mill
On 19 May, RNZ reported that the Landowner groups in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea, had shut down the Liguria Oil Palm Mill on 12 May after East New Britain Palm Oil Ltd failed to address eight government recommendations. The closure followed allegations by oil palm farmers of exploitation and price-fixing. The National Government’s recommendations include repayment of approximately USD 9 million owed to landowners and growers and the establishment of a fair market price formula. Pomio Oil Palm Growers Association demands a favorable response before reopening. Trade Minister Richard Maru warned of legal action against the company if non-compliant. The Narragit Oil Palm Mill may also face temporary closure. (“PNG landowner groups shut down Oil Palm Mill in East New Britain,” RNZ, 19 May 2025)

Australian prisoner Matthew Radalj’s ordeal in Beijing’s brutal detention system
On 18 May, BBC reported that Australian Matthew Radalj was arrested in Beijing on January 2, 2020, after a dispute with shopkeepers and was wrongly convicted of robbery, receiving a four-year sentence. He endured brutal treatment, beatings, starvation, and bullying to force a false confession. He was detained in harsh conditions with no showers, dirty toilets, constant lighting, and overcrowding, he was first held in a tough “transition period” before moving to regular prison. Mandarin-speaking Taiwanese inmates convinced guards to give them control of extra food, sparking a large brawl. Radalj was caught in the middle and, after hitting another prisoner, was sent to solitary confinement for 194 days in a tiny 1.2 by 1.8-meter cell with minimal light, no reading materials, and halved food rations. Prisoners, mostly drug convicts from Africa, Pakistan, and the US, faced psychological abuse through the prison’s “good behaviour points system,” which allowed earning up to 100 points monthly by tasks like studying Communist Party texts or factory work, with 4,200 points theoretically reducing sentences. However, Radalj and others say points were frequently revoked near targets for trivial reasons, causing many to give up and face other punishments, such as reduced family calls. Radalj secretly documented these abuses and, after release, returned to Australia to advocate for prisoners still enduring harsh conditions. (Stephen McDonell, “You start to go crazy: The Australian who survived five years in a Chinese prison,” BBC, 18 May 2025)

Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad denies collusion with University of the South Pacific Vice-Chancellor
On 21 May, RNZ reported that Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad dismissed claims of collusion with University of the South Pacific (USP) Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia as "nonsense." Prasad, attending the 99th USP Council meeting in Auckland, stated “meeting friends at the university was normal.” Allegations arose from reports of private meetings at Ahluwalia’s residence. Prasad denied any leadership crisis at USP, stating challenges are common and the Council is professional. Fiji’s government has restored funding and academic freedom to USP. Prasad stressed the university’s importance to regional unity and development, noting that a search for a new vice-chancellor will begin soon as Ahluwalia’s term ends in August 2026. (Lydia Lewis, “Fijian Deputy PM rejects University of the South Pacific collusion claims, says 'no leadership crisis',” RNZ, 21 May 2025)

Pacific Territories raise voice at UN Decolonisation meet
On 21 May, RNZ reported that New Caledonia and French Polynesia are sending strong delegations to the UN Pacific seminar on decolonization, held in Dili, Timor Leste, from 21 May to 23 May 2025. New Caledonia, on the UN decolonization list since 1986, is facing political unrest and deadlocked talks with France. Its government President Alcide Ponga and the Kanak Senate will present both pro- and anti-independence views. French Polynesia, re-listed in 2013, is represented by both pro-independence Tavini Huiraatira and pro-autonomy leaders like Moerani Frébault and Tepuaraurii Teriitahi. Tavini recently drafted a proposed “Constitution of a Federated Republic of Ma'ohi Nui”. France President Moetai Brotherson seeks a peaceful evolution in ties with France, though not immediate independence. France, however, maintains that French Polynesia does not belong on the UN decolonisation list. The seminar precedes formal Fourth Committee sessions in New York. (Patrick Decloitre, “New Caledonia, French Polynesia at UN decolonisation seminar in Dili,” RNZ, 21 May 2025)

Papua New Guinea's rainforests are under threat from illegal logging
On 21 May, RNZ reported that Papua New Guinea’s rainforests are being rapidly cleared through abuse of the Forest Clearing Authority (FCA) scheme. They were meant for small-scale agriculture. Advocacy group ACT NOW and Jubilee Australia stated in their report The FCA Logging Scandal that large-scale illegal logging is disguised as agricultural activity. On 09 August 2022, Prime Minister James Marape, in his inaugural address to the national parliament, stated that "we are committed to stopping all round log exports by 2025". But not much action had been taken. ACT NOW campaign manager Eddie Tanago blames the PNG Forest Authority for failing to enforce regulations and calls for an immediate suspension of FCA-based logging. The group also asked for clear investigation, public audit reports, and stronger monitoring by banks, foreign buyers, and organizations like Interpol. China, which buys 90 percent of Papua New Guinea’s timber, has also asked to make sure the wood is sourced legally. The communities will face land loss, environmental harm, and human rights violations without strong regulation and traceability. (Don Wiseman, “Report highlights widespread abuse of logging permits in Papua New Guinea,” RNZ, 21 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 20 May 2025, Monday | Vol.2 No. 102-103
US officials express frustration as retired Australian M1A1 tanks make their way to Ukraine
On 19 May, ABC reported that American officials expressed frustration over Australia's decision to donate retired M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, as the vehicles are finally bound for the battleground. After confirming the fleet of second-hand M1A1 vehicles was on the way, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in an overnight meeting in Rome. The ABC has confirmed that loading the first of the 49 vehicles onto a cargo ship began recently, but details remain hazy due to "security reasons". Australia had to wait for Washington's approval to export the US-made tanks to a third country, which was granted despite some frustration.  (Andrew Greene, US officials question use of Australia's retired tanks as vehicles go to Ukraine, ABC News, 19 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 17 May 2025, Saturday | Vol.2 No. 101
West Papuan indigenous groups protest Indonesia's Food Estate Project
On 16 May, RNZ reported the ongoing land disputes in Merauke, West Papua, wherein Indigenous groups alleged that the Indonesian government is grabbing their ancestral lands to build a national "food barn" under the Food Estate Project. Wensi Fatubun, from Merauke in Indonesian-occupied Papua, said: “[The] Indonesian government took the land for the [food] security project, it was not consulted or consented by Indigenous Papuan." About 90 per cent of the areas targeted were forest, and that was a source of livelihood for most of the locals. The plan, like past governments, aims to convert 3 million hectares of land into rice (2 million) and sugarcane (1 million) to reduce food imports by 2028. Wensi Fatubun, Rosa Moiwend, and Human Rights Watch's Andreas Harsono highlight the absence of consent, rising militarisation, and fear among Papuans. The project is in the memory of the failed 2010 Merauke Integrated Food and Energy Estate for 1.3 million hectares, mostly forest, which raised environmental and legal issues. Indonesia's embassy insists all its land sales are respectful of tribal culture. Catherine Delahunty of West Papua Action Aotearoa denounces Australia and New Zealand for closing their eyes to what she considers racially driven exploitation and ecological devastation within a territory she calls the "lungs of the Pacific."(Caleb Fotheringham, “Indigenous West Papuans claim Indonesian government is 'land grabbing',” RNZ, 16 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 15-16 May 2025, Thursday & Friday | Vol.2 No. 99 & 100
Polio outbreak plagues Papua New Guinea, reports WHO
On 16 May, RNZ reported on a World Health Organisation informing of a fresh outbreak of polio cases in Papua New Guinea. This is the second outbreak since 2018, which was eradicated the same year. PNG health officials are focused on vaccinating people, especially children under the age of five, who are more susceptible to acquiring it. The transmission of the disease was first noted in the city of Lae, in stool samples from two healthy children. WHO representative in PNG, Dr Sevil Huseynova, said: “In communities with low polio immunisation rates, the virus quickly spreads from one person to another.” In some rare cases, the virus can invade the nervous system, leaving one in 200 people with irreversible paralysis. (“Polio outbreak confirmed in Papua New Guinea, World Health Organisation says,” RNZ, 16 May 2025)

Australia’s employment increases in April by 89,000
On 15 May, ABC News reported the strong rise in Australia’s employment in April and its effect on unemployment and monetary policy. The employment increased by 89,000, much higher than the forecasted 22,500, with female employment rising by 65,000 (mainly full-time) and male employment by 24,000. Despite this growth, the unemployment rate stayed steady at 4.1 percent, the same as March, and the participation rate rose to 67.1 percent. Over the year, employment grew by 390,000 (2.7 percent), outpacing the 2.1 percent population growth for those aged 15 and above. The employment-to-population ratio inched up to 64.4 percent, near its January record. While headline inflation dropped from 4.1 percent to 2.4 percent, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) still plans to cut interest rates, though possibly less aggressively, due to the strong job figures. Callam Pickering, economist at Indeed, said the robust jobs growth shows the labor market remains healthy, supported by ongoing strong labor demand. Tony Sycamore from IG noted the market now expects a slightly lower chance of a rate cut next week, and ANZ economists Aaron Luk and Adelaide Timbrell highlighted that the surge might be “more noise than signal,” pointing out flat hours worked despite rising employment, but they still expect a 0.25 percent rate cut soon. (Gareth Hutchens, “Employment surges by 89,000 in April and unemployment rate holds steady at 4.1pc,” ABC News, 15 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 13-14 May 2025, Tuesday & Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 97 & 98
Missing ballot papers found at the Australian Electoral Commission worker's home
On 14 May, ABC reported an investigation that was launched into the 1,866 missing ballot papers found at the home of a temporary Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) worker. While this did not affect the outcome of the polls, it remains unclear how the ballots went missing. Further investigation is ongoing. The ballots were found in a secure container that had been shipped on 03 May but failed to reach the commission's central counting centre. According to an AEC spokesperson: “Ballot papers were securely packaged in the presence of scrutineers, with an authorised transport officer collecting two ballot paper transport containers for delivery to a central counting centre to await further processing,” (AEC investigates after missing ballot papers found at election worker's home,” ABC, 14 May 2025)

China is accused of pressuring the Solomon Islands minister to resign from IPAC
On 13 May, RNZ reported that China's Embassy in Solomon Islands was accused of pressuring newly appointed Rural Development Minister, Daniel Waneoroa, to resign from the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC). The IPAC condemned the alleged pressure as “bullying behaviour”, viewing it as a direct challenge to the Solomon Islands' sovereignty. When asked, Mr Waneoroa stated that he made the decision “in the interest of fostering stability and aligning with a collective national vision.” Transparency Solomon Islands criticized China's actions, stating, “The People's Republic of China must understand: Solomon Islands is not a satellite state like Hong Kong," and demanded an end to political interference. Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Solomon Islands denied these allegations, terming them “baseless.” (Stephen Dziedzic, Chrisnrita Aumanu-Leong, “China accused of foreign interference in Solomon Islands after minister quits international group,” RNZ, 13 May 2025)
 
Sussan Ley becomes the first woman to lead Australia's Liberal Party
On 13 May, as reported by the BBC, Susan Ley was elected as the first woman to lead Australia’s Liberal Party, following Peter Dutton’s electoral defeat for the party. The Liberal-National coalition suffered one of its worst defeats, securing only 42 seats, down from 58. In contrast, the Labor Party, led by Anthony Albanese, won at least 93 seats, increasing their majority by 16. Ley promised to rebuild the party's relationship with Australians, particularly women and young people, aiming to modernize the party's image and policies. In a statement made by her, “We have to have a Liberal Party that respects modern Australia, that reflects modern Australia, and that represents modern Australia.” Ley also said that all nuclear and net-zero emission policies, as well as the party’s losses, would be subject to review, advocating for multilateral decision-making. (“Liberal Party names first female leader after historic Australia election loss,” BBC, 13 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 12 May 2025, Monday | Vol.2 No. 96
A ban on public demonstrations in New Caledonia for the 2024 riots anniversary
On 12 May, RNZ reports, New Caledonia has implemented strict security measures following unsuccessful political talks and ahead of the first anniversary of the deadly riots of May 2024. The riots resulted in 14 deaths and EUR 2.2 billion in damages. From 12-15 May 2025, public demonstrations and marches will be banned in the Greater Nouméa area, with restrictions on firearm sales, ammunition, and takeaway alcohol. The move follows violent clashes in Nouméa’s suburbs, including the setting up of roadblocks and arson incidents. In response, French authorities have deployed 2,600 officers, including special SWAT units and riot-armored vehicles, aiming for a "zero tolerance" policy against urban violence, especially in pro-independence strongholds like Saint-Louis. Meanwhile, a New Zealand war memorial was set alight, prompting police investigations. Australia and New Zealand have issued heightened travel advisories due to the risk of civil unrest. The political talks aimed at resolving New Caledonia's future also ended without agreement, with pro-independence and pro-France parties unable to compromise on sovereignty and electoral issues. (Patrick Decloitre, “New Caledonia tightens security following aborted political talks ahead of riots' first anniversary,” RNZ, 12 May 2025).
 
Escalating violence in West Papua raises human rights concerns
On 12 May, an editorial in RNZ reported that violence in West Papua is escalating to levels reminiscent of past intense conflict periods. United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) reported that Indonesian forces killed an 18-year-old civilian, Deris Kogoya, and severely injured another, Jemi Waker. Human Rights Watch, Andreas Harsono noted a surge in fighting, with more Indonesian soldiers being deployed and increasing numbers of indigenous Papuans, including boys, joining the resistance. Harsono notes that this violence mirrors the intensity of conflicts from the late 20th century, such as in 1977, 1984, and 2004. Indonesia’s Embassy in Wellington did not confirm the attack but stated military actions align with international law. Human rights violations are alleged if the attack targeted civilians. ULMWP's interim president, Benny Wenda, condemned the international community's lack of attention, drawing comparisons to conflicts like Ukraine and Israel-Palestine. The Indonesian government maintains restrictions on foreign journalists for safety reasons, adding to the region's information blackout. (Caleb Fotheringham, “Fighting is more frequent now: Human rights researcher warns of escalating conflict in West Papua,” RNZ, 12 May 2025)
 
Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 02 May 2025, Friday | Vol.2 No. 95
Nauru’s commercialisation of deep-seabed mining plans suffers under Trump’s executive order
On 25 April, US President Donald Trump’s executive order ruined Nauru’s plans to commercialize seabed mining in its Clarion-Clipperton Zone block. The order was titled “Unleashing America's Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources.” It directs American authorities to fast-track ocean-floor permits, an end-run around the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the International Seabed Authority (ISA). Under UNCLOS, benefits from seabed minerals must serve “humankind as a whole.” Nauru’s ISA exploration license has yet to be followed by an exploitation code. Canadian firm, The Metals Company, has applied for US exploration and commercial permits, including for the 25,160 km² Nauru-sponsored block, using the Deep Sea Hard Mineral Resources Act. Pacific campaigner Phil McCabe said: “If the Metals Company moves through the US process, there is no mechanism for benefits to flow to Pacific sponsor states.” This would potentially sideline Nauru and other small island nations while heightening geopolitical competition over critical minerals. (Teuila Fuatai, “Trump's push on deep sea mining imperils Nauru's commercial ambitions,” RNZ, 02 May 2025)
 
Australia and Nauru conclude the multi-year funding agreement
On 02 May, RNZ reported that Australia and Nauru have concluded a multi-year funding agreement for the Regional Processing Centre, which announced that asylum-seekers are stuck in Nauru. A government report states that, of 93 transferees, four have been granted refugee status and 89 are undergoing appeal processes. Under Australia’s offshore detention policy, those arriving by boat or deemed “removal pathway” non-citizens can be returned to Nauru under new legislation granting the minister power to issue deportation directions. New Zealand’s agreement to resettle up to 150 refugees annually through June 2025 provides no immediate relief for those still on Nauru. In March 2025, the UN Human Rights Committee ruled that Australia retains responsibility for the health and welfare of asylum-seekers held in Nauru, despite Canberra’s assertion that it does not exercise “effective control” over the centre. (“'No future' for refugees on Nauru after funding extension - activist,” RNZ, 02 May 2025)

Australia & The Pacific Reader Daily Wire | 01 May 2025, Thursday | Vol.2 No. 94
New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister to visit New Caledonia amid constitutional crisis
On 01 May, RNZ reported that New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters will visit New Caledonia on 01-02 May 2025. He is expected to hold talks with French Overseas Minister Manuel Valls and local leaders amid deep divisions over independence. Valls is circulating a revised draft agreement that seeks to reconcile pro-independence and pro-France camps on self-determination, provincial powers, and a future citizenship framework tied to amendments of the French Constitution.  Peters will also meet government President Alcide Ponga and Pacific Community director-general Dr Stuart Minchin, underlining New Zealand’s commitment to supporting New Caledonia’s “pathway forward” as a Pacific Islands Forum member. (Patrick Decloitre, “Winston Peters to meet French minister in New Caledonia this week,” RNZ, 01 May 2025)
 
Bougainville electoral commission begins roll update ahead of September elections
On 30 April, RNZ reported that Bougainville Electoral Commissioner Desmond Tsianai announced preparations are underway to update voting rolls for the region’s general election. Writs are to be issued on 7 July, and the polling scheduled will commence on 2 September 2025. His office has printed the preliminary rolls, begun training election staff, and is finalizing returning officers for Bougainville and five Papua New Guinea provinces. Tsianai stressed his team’s commitment to delivering the election on time, within budget and in full compliance with legal requirements, ensuring a “free, fair and credible” process for Bougainville voters. (“Bougainville vote preparations on track - electoral commissioner,” RNZ, 30 April 2025)