Strengthening Regional Ties: Australia and Fiji Sign 2024-2025 Joint Work Program
As part of the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership, the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) have signed a new Joint Work Program, paving the way for strengthened collaboration on border security.
The 2024-2025 Joint Work Program, signed by ABF Deputy Commissioner Tim Fitzgerald and FRCS CEO Udit Singh, celebrates the first anniversary of the ABF’s presence in Fiji. This agreement not only underscores Fiji’s leadership in regional border security but also reflects the strong and enduring relationship between Australia and Fiji.
Over the past year, the Australian Border Force (ABF) has stationed two officers in Fiji as part of its Pacific Network. These officers have collaborated closely with local border agencies and the Oceania Customs Organisation, conducting in-country workshops, training sessions, and joint operations. Their efforts have significantly enhanced Fiji’s ability to manage emerging border risks in the maritime, aviation, and cargo sectors.
A key focus of this collaboration has been the fight against revenue leakage and the promotion of legitimate trade and travel, particularly through FRCS’s Gold Card initiative, a program that encourages compliant trade practices.
The ABF has also facilitated multi-agency visits to Australia, providing FRCS officials with firsthand experience of Australia’s border management practices, including interactions with Maritime Border Command, Container Examination Facilities and the ABF’s Detector Dog Program.
The new Joint Work Program strengthens these ongoing efforts by further advancing capabilities in key areas such as maritime security, intelligence, and targeting operations, along with improved screening processes for containers, cargo, and mail. It also places a strong emphasis on trade-related priorities within enforcement, revenue, and compliance.
Additionally, the ABF is committed to supporting FRCS’s leadership through various workplace culture initiatives, including gender equality programs, future leader mentoring, and the sponsorship of joint awards to recognize excellence in innovation and leadership.
Reflecting on the partnership, ABF Superintendent Uriah Turner praised the progress made over the past year but acknowledged the challenges ahead.
“While we’ve achieved a great deal together, there is still much work to be done. By form alising our partnership, we can ensure our efforts are focused and effective in addressing border security vulnerabilities, delivering the best outcomes for both nations. It has been a privilege to work alongside our FRCS colleagues, and we commend their dedication to protecting Fiji’s borders,” Superintendent Turner said.
FRCS CEO, Mr. Udit Singh expressed his appreciation for the outstanding support and commitment provided by the Australian Government and ABF in further enhancing Fiji’s border management and security.
“FRCS values the strong partnership we have established with ABF and thank the Australian Government and ABF for the support towards FRCS in the form of customs modernization, technical assistance and capacity building that has helped FRCS improve its core roles – border protection, security, trade facilitation, revenue and compliance,” Mr. Singh stated.
“We are immensely pleased with the formalization of our partnership, as this engagement and collaboration will further enhance FRCS in achieving its strategic objectives of protecting our borders from illicit activities and facilitating legitimate trade and travel.”
Last Updated - August 23, 2024