Stories about Oceania
Uproar in Fiji after parliament approves salary increase for top government officials
"We re-emphasize that urgent national issues like poverty, healthcare, and education need prioritization over politicians' pay hikes."
Australian billionaire's attempt to remove gallery portrait draws international attention
"I would never have known about this and no one would have cared if she didn't demand to have it removed. Now it's arguably more valuable because of the attention..."
Pacific communities seek to protect kava as it gains global popularity
The kava drink, traditional in Pacific Island communities, has become a global sensation, leading to some concern about exploitation and appropriation.
Ban on children’s book ‘Same-sex Parents’ backfires down under
One online petition to reverse the ban had over 40,000 signatures, with another exceeding 10,000 signatures before the Cumberland Council overturned its ban in a decisive vote of 12 to 2.
Unrest in New Caledonia: ‘The Kanak people’s destiny should not be decided in Europe’
"The island closest to paradise has become the island closest to hell."
The Global Coalition for Language Rights: A space for language justice
Half of the world's languages are endangered. One new prize champions language justice by awarding language activists from across the world the Language Rights Defenders Award.
Pacific groups highlight role of media in addressing climate crisis
"A free press is vital to informing our communities about the environmental challenges we face and holding all accountable for protecting our precious environment."
Exploring New Zealand’s unique wildlife and learning about conservation efforts
New Zealanders pride themselves on the care they take to conserve their unique flora and fauna. "Kiwi," their universal nickname, comes from the iconic bird, a national symbol.
Papua New Guinea demands apology from Joe Biden over cannibalism remarks
"President Biden’s comments contribute and are a testament to the broader misunderstanding and this fantasization from the West about cannibalism in Papua New Guinea."
Remembering the victims of nuclear weapons testing in the Marshall Islands
"Why was the most beautiful corner of the world, with the most beautiful and peaceful people, chosen for these horrific acts without our informed consent?"
Deadly tribal clashes destabilize Papua New Guinea
"We are asking for accountability from our members of Parliament. It doesn't matter whether they are in government or in opposition. This is a national crisis."
Yang Hengjun's death sentence jolts improving relations between Australia and China
"Something worth noting (and may not be readily apparent): Yang Hengjun is an Australian citizen. But to the Chinese government, he's Chinese."
National broadcaster axes Australian journalist Antoinette Lattouf over Gaza social media post
"Does anyone think an ABC reporter would have been sacked for posting a message on social media supporting Israel?"
In search of Australia's treasured koala
With Australia facing potentially catastrophic bushfires this summer like the 2019–2020 season, one of its favorite animals, the koala, is under threat on a number of other fronts as well.
A New Zealand Minister’s ‘war’ with the media
"They don’t particularly like being answerable to the media and they like even less the scrutiny that comes with public office."
‘Matilda': Australian word of the year following magnificent 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup
Some fans made the ultimate sacrifice to attend the quarter final game against France: 'I gave up Taylor Swift tickets for the Matildas'
Australia's bid to co-host COP31 climate conference faces obstacles
Since the election of the new Labor government in 2022, Australia’s international reputation regarding climate action has risen considerably as result of stronger emissions targets and its enhanced safeguard mechanisms.
Australian journalist pushes back against anti-LGBTQ+ trolls
"I don't want people to feel like I'm not their broadcaster. But equally if I'm not my authentic self, I can't do my job well."
Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union: Climate justice or defense treaty?
"Offering residence or citizenship rights to Tuvaluans, though a compassionate response, does not halt the inexorable rise in sea levels."
Vanuatu’s political instability hampers development and cyclone recovery efforts
"Political instability is disrupting Vanuatu’s development and service delivery to our communities across all islands."
‘Historic day for Fiji’ as it revives its media council
"It acts as a platform where people in the media world can talk, work together, and resolve any issues that come up."