Key milestone for critical maritime infrastructure in Tuvalu

Australia's support to Tuvalu's infrastructure development has reached a major milestone, with Nui Island's new boat harbour now complete.

Maritime transport is vital to Tuvalu's economy, with the population spread across nine islands and an exclusive economic zone of nearly 750,000 km2. Completed ahead of schedule, the wharf and harbour will increase the availability and reliability of transport options for both passengers and cargo travelling between Nui Island and Tuvalu's capital. Works include a new boat wharf, cargo shed and passenger terminal as well as features such as 24-hour solar lighting, guard rails and signage, making it safer for women, people with disability, elderly passengers, and children to travel.

The Nui Island boat harbour project demonstrates Australia's continued support and commitment to an enhanced development partnership under the Tuvalu-Australia Falepili Union.

In line with Australia's development policy, the project has delivered local job opportunities, including ten per cent of roles employing local women.

The upgrades strengthen Tuvalu's resilience to climate change, with the harbour and landside facilities designed to ensure minimal disruption to Tuvaluans' livelihoods when severe weather occurs.

The Australian Government provided $21.4 million (AUD) to support upgrades to two of Tuvalu's outer island boat harbours, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).

This is the second AIFFP project to be jointly co-financed with the Asian Development Bank, reflecting our shared commitment to delivering quality infrastructure projects that generate sustained economic and development benefits in the Pacific.

Australia is committed to principles of quality infrastructure delivery, including climate resilience, gender equality, disability and social inclusion, local job creation and skills development. For more information about the AIFFP or this project, visit the AIFFP website

Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy:

"The Nui Island boat harbour will provide communities with greater access to essential services and supplies."

"As a neighbour and close friend to Tuvalu, Australia is proud to invest in high quality infrastructure projects that have a real impact for the people of Tuvalu."

"We are continuing to listen, respond and work with countries across our region to meet their priorities."