On Tuesday 30 September 2025 (from 13.00pm – 15.00pm AEST), WLI will host an online Learning & Networking event focused on inclusive social protection in the Pacific. The event is for Australia Awards scholars and alumni from the Pacific and their families, as well as development colleagues in our region.
About social protection in the Pacific
Social protection has become a central pillar of inclusive development and resilience in Pacific Island countries. As communities across the Pacific region face intensifying challenges from climate change, economic shocks, and social inequalities, the need to safeguard vulnerable groups has become urgent and undeniable (P4SP, 2024).
While traditional support systems such as wantok, kastom, and kerekere remain vital, they are increasingly strained by modern pressures like rising living costs, growing rural-urban drift, frequent natural disasters and the influence of modern lifestyles. Formal social protection systems such as pensions, disability benefits, and child grants are being introduced and expanded, but they remain underdeveloped and unevenly distributed.
About this event
By bringing together key speakers, this event aims to foster conversations about the evolving landscape of social protection in the Pacific and spotlight innovative practices, policy developments, and the critical role of Pacific-led research and community voices in shaping systems that go beyond financial aid to promote dignity, equity, and long-term resilience.
The event will feature a live expert panel discussion, audience Q&A, and break-out group discussions to explore the topic in further depth.
About the expert panel
Moderated by Melaia Waisale, Acting Manager Research and Product Development, Fiji National Provident Fund, the panel discussion will feature:
Rachel Payne, Deputy Team Leader, Partnerships for Social Protection (P4SP)
Tevita Tonga, Chief Executive Officer, Tonga's National Retirement Benefits Fund
Veremo Muria, Director of Social Protection, Fiji’s Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection
Event details
Date: 30 September 2025
Time: 13.00pm – 15.00pm AEST
Location: Online, via Zoom