Australia Provides Budget Support to Cook Islands

Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 20 August 2025

The Australian Government has announced a new package of AUD1.9 million (NZD2.05 million) of direct budget support to Cook Islands.

The funding supports activities aligned with Cook Islands’ priorities in policing, health, cyber cooperation, capacity development, essential services and environmental protection. The package provides essential funding for five Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) as well as the Centre of Excellence in Information Technology.

Quote attributable to the Australian High Commissioner to Cook Islands, Her Excellency Susannah Hodson:

“We are pleased to provide budget support to Cook Islands for the first time. This milestone initiative is an important demonstration of the Australian Government’s commitment to Cook Islands as part of our ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership.”

“The funding will be directed to shared priorities, developed in close consultation with the Cook Islands Government. In selecting these areas, we have listened to feedback from the community about where our funding has the most impact. For example, visiting Australian Ear, Nose and Throat surgical teams have been very valued, so we have earmarked funding to ensure this program continues.”

Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management will oversee the management and reporting of the budget support in accordance with accountability frameworks.