AGP Executive Report

Immigration & Justice: Australia’s High Court has ruled against the Albanese government in a case over false imprisonment tied to a non-citizen’s indefinite immigration detention, warning taxpayers could face tens of millions in compensation after the court found there was “no reasonable prospect” of removing him. Nauru Governance: Nauru has launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance partnership with UNDP, aiming to strengthen Parliament, elections, justice services and public participation. Nauru-Australia Transfer Claims: A rare Nauru government statement says it is “friendly” after allegations under parliamentary privilege claimed officers threatened violence against people transferred to Nauru under Australia’s long-term deal. Ocean & Security: World Ocean Day remarks from former Pacific Islands Forum SG Dame Meg Taylor urged Pacific unity to protect ocean governance from militarisation and outside funding pressures. Regional Cybercrime: Fiji hosted Pacific legal officers to finalise a cybercrime legislation handbook, with Nauru among participating countries. Tsunami Watch: After a 7.8 quake near the Philippines, US tsunami advisories listed Nauru and many Pacific islands, urging coastal communities to follow local instructions and stay out of the water. Deep-Sea Mining: Reports say seabed minerals deals are drawing UNCLOS disputes and geopolitical competition, including agreements involving Nauru. Fuel Costs: Nauru raised diesel price caps again, with other Pacific states also tightening measures as energy costs bite.

Deep-sea mining showdown: Mining companies backed by Nauru and Tonga have filed UNCLOS claims against the International Seabed Authority, arguing the ISA flagged their deep-sea exploration contracts as possibly non-compliant. Tsunami watch for Nauru: After a 7.8 quake off the Philippines, the US Tsunami Warning Centre issued advisories across many Pacific coasts, including Nauru, urging people to stay out of the water and follow local instructions. Nauru governance push: Nauru launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance project with UNDP support, aiming to strengthen key institutions like Parliament, the Electoral Commission, and justice services. Nauru-Australia deportation row: Nauru issued a rare “friendly” statement after whistleblower claims of “serious threats of physical violence” against non-citizens removed to the island under Australia’s deal. Regional cybercrime work: Fiji hosted talks to finalise a Pacific cybercrime legislation handbook, with Nauru among participating countries. Pacific ocean politics: Former Forum SG Dame Meg Taylor warned that militarisation and reliance on outside funding could weaken Pacific-led control of ocean governance. Fuel prices bite: Nauru raised diesel price caps again, while other Pacific states also tightened measures as energy costs surge.

Nauru Governance: Nauru launched Phase II of the Nauru Accountable and Inclusive Governance (NAIG-II) project, a whole-of-government push with UNDP support to strengthen Parliament, the Electoral Commission, justice services and citizen participation. Cybercrime & Digital Law: Nauru is among Pacific countries meeting in Fiji to finalise a regional cybercrime legislation handbook under PILON, aimed at helping laws keep pace with fast-growing digital threats. Tsunami Watch: After a 7.8 Philippines earthquake, US tsunami advisories listed Nauru among affected Pacific coasts, with agencies urged to inform communities and stay out of the water. Fuel Costs: Nauru raised diesel fuel price caps for the first time since the crisis began, lifting maximum diesel retail prices by nearly 40% to about AU$2.9 per litre, with petrol also set to rise. Australia-Nauru Deportation Claims: Nauru issued a rare “friendly” statement after whistleblower allegations that officers overseeing removals made serious threats of physical violence against non-citizens sent to Nauru.

Cybercrime Push: Pacific legal experts met in Nadi, Fiji, to finalise a regional handbook to help countries strengthen cybercrime laws and protect digital borders, with representatives including Nauru and support from the Council of Europe. Tsunami Watch: After a powerful 7.8 quake off Mindanao, US tsunami advisories were issued across many Pacific coasts, including Nauru, with authorities told to inform communities and keep people out of the water. Ocean Governance Pressure: Former Pacific Islands Forum SG Dame Meg Taylor warned that rising geopolitical rivalry and dependence on foreign funding could weaken Pacific-led ocean decision-making, urging more economic self-determination. Tokelau Funding Shock: Tokelau faces a major budget hit after being expelled from the PNA Vessel Day Scheme, threatening up to two-thirds of government revenue. Nauru Governance Upgrade: Nauru launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance project with UNDP support to strengthen institutions like Parliament, elections, and justice services. Fuel Costs Bite: Nauru raised diesel price caps again, while other Pacific states also moved to manage surging fuel costs. Solomon Islands Pivot: New PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 China security pact and begin treaty talks with Australia.

Ocean Governance & Funding: Former Pacific Islands Forum SG Dame Meg Taylor warned that rising geopolitical rivalry and dependence on foreign money could weaken Pacific-led decision-making, urging stronger economic independence to protect ocean governance. Tsunami Watch: After a powerful 7.8 quake off the southern Philippines, Pacific agencies issued tsunami advisories; Nauru is listed among affected areas and authorities urged people to stay out of the water and follow local instructions. Nauru-Australia Detention Claims: Nauru issued a rare “friendly” statement after whistleblower allegations of serious threats of physical violence against non-citizens sent there by Australia; independent MP Andrew Wilkie read the claims in parliament. Nauru Governance Upgrade: UNDP and partners launched NAIG-II Phase II to strengthen Nauru’s institutions and services through a whole-of-government approach. Fuel Costs Hit Nauru: Nauru raised diesel and petrol price caps again, with diesel up nearly 40% to about AU$2.9 per litre. Regional Security Shift: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review the secretive 2022 security pact with China and begin treaty talks with Australia. Sports: Kiribati won the bid to host the 2030 Micronesian Games.

Nauru Governance & Accountability: Nauru has launched Phase II of the Nauru Accountable and Inclusive Governance project (NAIG-II), working with UNDP and backed by Australia and New Zealand to strengthen Parliament, the Electoral Commission, justice services and civil society. Nauru Immigration Fallout: A rare Nauru statement insists the island is “friendly” and “welcoming” after whistleblower claims of “serious threats of physical violence” against non-citizens removed there under Australia’s 30-year deal—allegations read in parliament by Andrew Wilkie. Regional Security Reset: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China and start negotiations on a new comprehensive treaty with Australia, as Canberra pushes for closer ties. Pacific Energy Costs: Fuel prices keep climbing across the region; Nauru has raised diesel caps again, while Samoa moved to an “amber alert” and warned of power shedding. EU Seafood Rules: New EU food safety requirements are set to affect about 97% of Pacific Island freezer vessels exporting to the EU, with training underway for national authorities. Pacific Tuna Success: A new FFA report says regional cooperation has kept major tuna stocks healthy while the Pacific now accounts for 54% of the world’s tuna catch.

Micronesian Games Hosting: Kiribati has been selected to host the 2030 Micronesian Games after a competitive bidding process, with Chuuk, Kiribati, the Northern Mariana Islands and Palau submitting bids; the Northern Mariana Islands withdrew following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, and Kiribati’s plan was endorsed by majority vote on June 6. Nauru Governance Partnership: Nauru launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance project with UNDP support, bringing Parliament, the Electoral Commission, the justice sector and civil society into a whole-of-government push to improve services and public trust. Nauru–Australia Deportation Claims: Nauru issued a rare “friendly and welcoming” statement after whistleblower allegations read in parliament claimed officers made “serious threats of physical violence” against non-citizens removed to Nauru under Australia’s 30-year deal. Fuel Costs Across the Pacific: A regional fuels update says Nauru has raised diesel price caps for the first time since the crisis began, with other Pacific states also adjusting caps as energy pressure continues. EU Seafood Rule Impact: Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu took part in training on new EU freezer-vessel food safety rules expected to affect most Pacific Island vessels exporting to the EU. Solomon Islands Pivot: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China while pushing a “reset” with Australia and starting talks on a new comprehensive treaty.

Nauru Governance: Nauru has launched Phase II of the Nauru Accountable and Inclusive Governance (NAIG-II) project with UNDP support, bringing Parliament, the Electoral Commission, justice services and civil society into a “whole-of-government” push to improve services and public trust. Nauru Immigration Fallout: A rare government statement insists Nauru is “friendly” after whistleblower claims of “serious threats of physical violence” against non-citizens removed there under Australia’s long-term deal; independent MP Andrew Wilkie read the allegations in parliament. Nauru Detention Protest: Tony Kellisar, deported from Western Australia to Nauru, has begun a hunger strike, alleging he is unable to leave his room and calling the facility a “hellhole prison camp.” Regional Energy Pressure: Fuel costs keep biting across the Pacific, with Nauru raising diesel and petrol price caps for the first time since the crisis began. Solomon Islands Pivot: New PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China and start negotiations on a new treaty with Australia. Pacific Fisheries: A new FFA report says regional cooperation is keeping tuna stocks healthy while the Pacific manages 54% of the world’s tuna catch. EU Seafood Rule: EU food safety changes are set to affect about 97% of Pacific Island freezer vessels authorised to export to the EU. Nauru Tobacco Law: Nauru has banned tobacco sales and imports for one day a year under a new law, with fines and prison for breaches.

Nauru Governance: Nauru has launched Phase II of the Nauru Accountable and Inclusive Governance project (NAIG-II), working with UNDP and backed by Australia and New Zealand to strengthen Parliament, the Electoral Commission, the justice sector and civil society. Nauru Deportation Fallout: A rare government statement says Nauru is “friendly” after MP Andrew Wilkie read allegations from a whistleblower claiming serious threats of physical violence against non-citizens removed to Nauru under Australia’s 30-year deal. Fuel Costs: Nauru has increased its diesel and petrol price caps again, with diesel up nearly 40% to about AU$2.9 per litre, as energy pressure continues across the Pacific. Regional Security Shift: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China and push a “reset” with Australia, including starting negotiations on a new comprehensive treaty. Pacific Fisheries: A new FFA report says Pacific Island nations have kept major tuna stocks healthy while managing 54% of the world’s tuna catch through regional cooperation. EU Seafood Rule: EU food-safety changes are expected to affect about 97% of Pacific Island freezer vessels authorised to export to the EU.

Nauru Governance & Rights: Nauru launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance partnership with UNDP, aiming to strengthen key institutions like Parliament, the Electoral Commission and the justice sector. Deportation Fallout: Nauru also issued a rare “friendly” statement after whistleblower claims of “serious threats of physical violence” against non-citizens removed there under Australia’s deal—claims read in Parliament by MP Andrew Wilkie. Fuel Costs: Energy pressure across the Pacific continues, with Nauru raising diesel retail price caps by nearly 40% to about AU$2.9 per litre and petrol by around 20%, while Samoa moved to “amber alert” and began power shedding. Regional Security Politics: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China and start talks on a new comprehensive treaty with Australia. Health & Policy: Nauru passed a law banning tobacco sales and imports for one day each year, with fines up to AU$2,000 or 12 months in prison.

Pacific fuel squeeze: Samoa has moved to an “amber alert” despite fuel reserves, triggering power shedding and remote learning as diesel caps soar; Fiji lifted diesel caps again, while Nauru raised its fuel price caps for the first time since the crisis began, with diesel up about 40% and petrol up about 20%. Nauru governance: Nauru launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance partnership with UNDP, aiming to strengthen institutions and services across Parliament, the Electoral Commission, justice services and civil society. Nauru deportation controversy: Nauru issued a rare statement calling itself “friendly” after whistleblower claims of “serious threats of physical violence” against non-citizens removed there; independent MP Andrew Wilkie read the allegations under parliamentary privilege. Nauru tobacco law: Parliament passed a one-day annual ban on tobacco sales and imports on “Our Day to Let Go of Tobacco” (31 May), with fines and jail for breaches. Solomons pivot: New PM Matthew Wale says he will review the 2022 secretive security pact with China and push a “reset” with Australia, including treaty talks.

Nauru–Australia Deportation Deal: Nauru issued a rare statement after MP Andrew Wilkie read out whistleblower claims that officers overseeing the NZYQ deportee cohort made “serious threats of physical violence,” including dehumanising language and talk of “reckoning” on arrival. Governance Partnership: Nauru launched Phase II of the NAIG-II governance project with UNDP, bringing Parliament, the Electoral Commission and justice sector bodies into a whole-of-government push to improve services and public trust. Nauru Tobacco Law: Nauru introduced a one-day annual ban on tobacco sales and imports under a new law, with AU$2000 fines or up to 12 months in prison for breaches. Nauru Funds Scrutiny: Senate estimates heard Nauru withdrew $30.5m from an Australia-linked trust under the NZYQ deal, including spending on travel, equipment and a loan tied to expanding the national airline fleet. Regional Security Shift: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 China security pact and start negotiations on a new comprehensive treaty with Australia.

Governance Upgrade: Nauru has launched Phase II of the NAIG-II project with UNDP support, bringing Parliament, the Electoral Commission, justice services, and civil society into a “whole-of-government” push to improve public trust and services. Deportation Safety Claims: Independent MP Andrew Wilkie read allegations under parliamentary privilege that officers on Nauru-linked transfers for the NZYQ cohort have threatened violence against deportees, including claims of “grave concern” for safety. Nauru Funds Scrutiny: Senate estimates heard Nauru withdrew $30.5m from an Australia-backed NZYQ trust, with questions raised about spending priorities and whether conflict-of-interest rules were followed. Nauru Detention Protest: A man deported from Western Australia to Nauru, Tony Kellisar, has begun a hunger strike, alleging he’s trapped in a “hellhole prison camp” after transfer. Regional Security Pivot: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 China security pact and start talks on a new comprehensive treaty with Australia. Health & Trade Links: FAO backed Samoa and Fiji in a forestry exchange aimed at climate resilience, while Nauru also highlighted ongoing cooperation with Vietnam on trade and tuna-related development.

Solomon Islands–Australia Pivot: New PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China after admitting he only saw the text days before his Australia trip, while also pushing for a new “comprehensive treaty” with Canberra as part of a “reset” in ties. Nauru Deportation Fallout: In Australia, families and lawyers are raising fresh alarm over the NZYQ deportation deal to Nauru, with Sara* fearing her father could be next after a high court ruling ended indefinite detention. Nauru Detention Protest: A man deported from Western Australia to Nauru, Tony Kellisar, has begun a hunger strike at Nauru detention, calling it a “hellhole prison camp.” Nauru Funds Scrutiny: Senate estimates heard Nauru withdrew $30.5m from an Australia-linked trust under the NZYQ deal, including spending tied to offices controlled by President David Adeang and his son. Local Law: Nauru has introduced a one-day annual tobacco sale ban and import restrictions under a new law, with penalties for sellers. Regional Diplomacy: Israel opened a new embassy in Fiji, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar linking it to strengthening ties with Pacific supporters including Nauru.

Regional Fisheries: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency says two decades of tuna management cooperation have kept key stocks healthy, with the region now taking 54% of the world’s tuna catch and generating about US$480m a year in licence and access fees. Nauru Deportation Deal Scrutiny: Nauru has withdrawn $30.5m from an Australian-backed trust under the NZYQ deportee arrangement, including $19.8m to pay off a loan for expanding its airline fleet, while questions remain over how funds are used and who controls them. Nauru Tobacco Law: Nauru has introduced a one-day annual ban on selling and importing tobacco products under a new law, with penalties including AU$2,000 fines or prison. Solomon Islands Pivot to Australia: New PM Matthew Wale says he will review a secretive 2022 security pact with China and push a “reset” with Australia, including work on a new comprehensive treaty. Israel in the Pacific: Israel’s FM Gideon Sa’ar opened a new embassy in Fiji, with Nauru’s foreign minister attending, as Israel expands diplomatic ties across the region. Health & Aid: India marked Samoa’s Independence Day by delivering a haemodialysis machine for Samoa, fulfilling a FIPIC commitment. EU Migration: EU lawmakers agreed rules to send rejected migrants to holding centres outside the bloc as part of tighter return policies.

Nauru Tobacco Crackdown: Nauru has banned the sale and import of all tobacco products for one day each year under a new law, with 31 May declared “Our Day to Let Go of Tobacco,” and penalties of AU$2,000 or up to 12 months in prison. Nauru Deportation Deal Funds: Senate estimates heard Nauru withdrew $30.5 million from the NZYQ trust, including $19.8 million to pay off a loan expanding the national airline fleet, while questions remain about how the money was allocated and managed. Nauru–China Ties: President David Adeang says cooperation since Nauru resumed diplomatic relations with China in January 2024 is exceeding expectations and opening major opportunities for Nauru’s economy. Nauru–Taiwan Dispute: Taiwan’s Taipei Trade Office in Fiji rejected Nauru’s “province of China” label, after Nauru directed officials to follow the One-China Principle and avoid inconsistent terminology. Regional Tourism & Aviation: The Pacific Tourism Organisation urged closer coordination between tourism, airlines and airport operators at the ASPA meeting in the Cook Islands to improve connectivity and sustainable growth. Pacific Health Support: India’s EAM S Jaishankar marked Samoa’s Independence Day by announcing delivery of a haemo-dialysis machine with a portable RO unit under FIPIC commitments. Climate Accountability: The UN General Assembly backed a Vanuatu-led resolution affirming states’ legal duty to address climate change, but the US voted against it.