The Fijian Government is in the process of reviewing the 10-year National Housing Policy, Minister for Housing and Local Government Premila Kumar has confirmed.

The review is to introduce long-term, resilient housing plans for all citizens keeping in mind the frequent and increasing occurrence of natural disasters in Fiji.

Ms Kumar said the above has had a major impact on the housing sector, especially those living in the rural and maritime areas and informal settlements.

And in most cases, the weak house structures built using timber, tin and other materials do not meet the minimum structural standards to withstand even the weakest tropical cyclone.

Climate change resilience

Ms Kumar said: “With the pandemic, it has become more challenging to achieve climate change resilience, when attention is towards health and safety, food security, economic recovery, and connectivity.

“Climate finance is a key issue. Two per cent climate finance, collectively for Pacific Island Countries is unacceptable. Access to climate finance is crucial for saving and sustaining our island nations.”

She added that Government would soon legislate the Climate Change bill to achieve economy – wide net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“To assist Fijians, a Category 4, Engineer Certified house plan has been designed by my Ministry,” she said.

“This plan is available to all rural and maritime dwellers at no cost. It comes with engineering drawings and list of materials with proper costing.

“Anyone can download this plan and get it endorsed by the municipal councils. Councils will supervise the construction and ensure all compliance are met.”

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