Australia backs $35m flood solution for Nadi Basin

A $35 million climate adaptation programme targeting flood risks in the Nadi Basin has been launched, with a focus on long-term solutions to reduce the impact of flooding on communities and the economy.

The Fiji Climate Adaptation (FCA) Programme will begin work in the Nadi Basin, focusing on environmental management, upstream revegetation, improved water governance, and early warning systems to help communities prepare for floods.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced the launch at the Fiji Village Centre in Nadi on Saturday.

He said the initiative marked a key milestone in strengthening climate resilience and protecting communities, the economy, and future generations.

“Nadi holds a special place in Fiji’s economic and social landscape. It is a gateway to our nation, a hub for tourism, aviation and commerce, and a vibrant home to thousands of families and businesses. Yet, it is also one of the region's most vulnerable to flooding,” Mr Rabuka said.

Over the years, the township has seen how severe flood events disrupt livelihoods, damage homes and infrastructure, and place immense strain on families and communities.

“The floods of the past have reminded us that climate change is not a distant threat; it is a reality we are already living with.”

Mr Rabuka said vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities, were often the hardest hit.

“This is why investments in climate adaptation are not optional. They are essential,” he said.

The FCA programme, supported by the Government of Australia, will run from 2026 to 2029 to reduce flood risks and strengthen resilience by improving governance systems for water and flood management, enhancing early warning systems, and supporting communities to implement practical adaptation measures.

The programme will also promote nature-based solutions and community-level initiatives to strengthen local response to climate risks.

Initial work in the Nadi River catchment will allow the Government to pilot approaches that can later be expanded to other flood-prone areas.

Meanwhile, the proposed Nadi Flood Alleviation Project remains a long-term plan to address flooding in the region.

Planning began decades ago, and in December 2024, the Coalition Government endorsed moving forward with the project and exploring feasible options from past studies.

Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, has worked with Japan’s Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Fiji Government to identify key infrastructure solutions.

Proposed works include protective flood infrastructure to safeguard homes, businesses, and critical assets, including Nadi International Airport, as well as drainage improvements and a diversion channel to redirect excess water during major flood events.

Mr Rabuka acknowledged Australia’s support for the FCA programme and its collaboration with Japan on preparatory work for the flood alleviation project.