Australia blocks Pacific journalists, undermines media freedom
Only the Australian media were allowed into the press conference, sparking concerns and anger among Pacific journalists who were shut out.
Wednesday 10 September 2025 | 12:30
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the Ocean of Peace commemorative event in Honiara, Solomon Islands, on September 10, 2025.
Photo: Ivamere Nataro
IVAMERE NATARO
Pacific journalists were blocked by Australian officials from attending Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s press conference in the China-funded sports facility in Honiara yesterday.
Only the Australian media were allowed into the press conference, sparking concerns and anger among Pacific journalists who were shut out.
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The incident happened yesterday following the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders plenary meeting.
When questioned by Torres News journalist, Stefan Armbruster, and Radio New Zealand Pacific journalist Caleb Fotheringham on why Pacific journalists were not allowed to attend the press conference, Mr Albanese said: "I have no idea what you are talking about mate."
Mr Albanese arrived in Honiara, Solomon Islands, yesterday just a few hours before the plenary discussions.
The decision to block Pacific media from the press conference undermines and threatens press freedom, and raises questions about Australian diplomacy in the Pacific.
