Australia has announced a new AUD$20 million investment from 2026 to 2029 to support locally led gender equality, disability equity and social inclusion outcomes in Tonga.
Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, Michelle O’Byrne, shakes hands with Crown Princess Sinaitakala Tukuʻaho during her visit to Tonga. Photo/Australian Ambassador for Gender Equality
The investment was announced by Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, Michelle O’Byrne, during her first visit to Tonga, where she joined Minister for Internal Affairs Hon. Fane Fituafe in engagements across Vavaʻu and Tongatapu focused on women’s leadership, participation and inclusion.
The new investment builds on the close partnership between Tonga and Australia and supports priorities led by the Government of Tonga, including as outlined in the Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality Tonga (WEGET III) Policy, the National Disability Inclusive Development Policy and the recent National Women’s Fono.
The portfolio reflects Australia’s commitment to working alongside the Government of Tonga, civil society and communities to support Tongan-led priorities and practical, locally led solutions.
Quotes attributable to Ambassador O’Byrne
“Tonga and Australia are Kaumeʻa Ofi – close friends. Our partnership is built on decades of cooperation, deep people-to-people connections and shared values.”
“Tonga and Australia share a commitment to advancing gender equality, disability equity and rights, and social inclusion. Through this investment, Australia is proud to work alongside government, civil society and communities to support Tongan-led priorities, because development is strongest when it is locally led.”
“Inclusive societies are stronger societies. When women and men can participate equally, when people with disability can contribute fully, and when communities are free from violence, countries are more resilient, prosperous and secure.”
The investment will support the implementation of Tonga’s national gender equality and disability inclusion policies through expanded partnerships with the Ministry for Internal Affairs and civil society organisations and the continuation of Australia’s flagship Families Free of Violence initiative.
