$448.5 million in remittances from overseas Fijians in first quarter

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has hailed the contribution of overseas Fijians, revealing that remittances from abroad reached $448.5 million in the first four months of this year — a major boost to Fiji’s economy and a lifeline for families across the islands.

Speaking at the Fiji Day celebrations in Sydney yesterday, Mr Rabuka thanked members of the Fijian diaspora for their continued love and support for their homeland.

“Even though you are far from Fiji, your hearts remain close,” he said.

“Through your remittances, your families, and your prayers, you continue to strengthen our nation.”

He commended the thousands of Fijians living and working overseas for their role in uplifting communities back home.

“You have lifted the lives of so many people back home,” he said.

“Vinaka vakalevu for your contributions through remittances.”

Mr Rabuka joined thousands of Fijians and friends of Fiji at Liverpool’s Woodward Park in Sydney for the celebration of the nation’s 55th Independence Day.

The park was transformed into a sea of blue and white as families gathered for cultural performances, food, music, and rugby.

The Prime Minister also encouraged Fijians living in Australia to uphold the values of respect, humility, and compassion, and to continue being proud ambassadors of Fiji.

“Wherever you are, live in a way that makes others see the best of Fiji in you,” he said.

He further expressed Fiji’s gratitude to the Australian Government for its ongoing friendship and support through the Vuvale Partnership.

“Australia has been a true friend to Fiji,” he said. “Our Vuvale Partnership shows the strength of our shared values and the deep connection between our peoples.”

Fijians attending the Sydney event also accessed services from the Fiji Government roadshow team, which included representatives from key agencies such as the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Immigration, Employment, and the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF).

Mr Rabuka reminded the crowd that Fiji Day was not only a celebration of independence, but also a call to unity and progress.

“Fiji Day is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come — and to remind ourselves of the faith and togetherness that carried us through,” he said.

“Let’s continue to build a future filled with peace, love, and progress for all.”