The Big Australian has begun talks with Yindjibarndi Energy on a deal to supply green power to the miner’s extensive Pilbara iron ore operations.
Author: admin_fijitimes
Two men arrested in connection with an alleged violent home invasion in Wailoku have been charged and appeared in court on Monday. The accused, aged 23 and 24, are residents of Waimanu Road and Mead Road. They have each been charged with one count of Criminal Intimidation, one count of Aggravated Burglary, one count of Damaging Property, and one count of Act with Intent to Cause Grievous Harm. The pair have been remanded in custody and are expected to reappear in court on 5 June. Police confirmed that investigations are continuing, with the remaining three suspects still being questioned over…
The number of abandoned and rusting vessels cluttering Suva Harbour is gradually decreasing as Government continues its derelict vessel removal programme. Speaking in Parliament today, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Hon. Lynda Tabuya said the number of derelict vessels in the harbour has been reduced from 44 in 2024 to 24 following ongoing clean-up operations. Tabuya said the first phase of the programme commenced in December last year, focusing on abandoned vessels within Suva Harbour with financial support of USD$1 million from the Waitt Foundation. According to the Minister, 13 vessels were removed during 2025, while a further…
Energy Fiji Limited has confirmed that proposed power rationing measures have been deferred following the approval of an interim electricity fuel surcharge by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission. The interim fuel surcharge, which takes effect from today, adds 5.91 cents per kilowatt-hour across electricity customer categories and is aimed at helping offset rising global fuel costs impacting Fiji’s power sector. EFL says the surcharge represents only a partial recovery of the extraordinary increase in international fuel prices, as the country continues to rely on imported fuel for between 45 to 50 percent of electricity generation. The company says dry…
Fiji’s Parliament has passed the Education Bill 2025, introducing sweeping changes to the country’s education system and replacing the Education Act of 1966 after nearly six decades. The new legislation establishes an updated legal framework that strengthens the right to education for all Fijians, covering every stage of learning from Early Childhood Education to primary, secondary, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and higher education. Among the major changes is the creation of an Education Advisory Council, which will provide policy guidance and give stakeholders a greater role in shaping the direction of the education sector. The law also…
The Government has defended its decision to maintain fuel-related taxes despite mounting pressure from rising global oil prices, saying a complete removal of duties would cost the country more than $150 million in revenue and weaken essential public services. Delivering an update in Parliament this morning, Fiji’s Minister for Finance Esrom Emmanuel said Government had chosen what he described as a “balanced and fiscally responsible approach” in responding to the ongoing global fuel crisis. The Minister said while Government had already introduced targeted relief measures for bus operators, electricity generation and shipping services, fuel taxes remained a major source of…
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has urged Fijians to avoid non-essential travel to several Central African nations following concerns over the spread of Ebola-related illnesses in the region. Countries listed in the advisory include the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and neighbouring states sharing land borders such as South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Angola, Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic. Travellers heading to affected areas have been advised to avoid contact with sick individuals and wild animals, refrain from eating bushmeat, and maintain strict hygiene practices including regular handwashing. Health authorities are…
Fijians seeking Government support for overseas medical treatment must complete a detailed screening and financial assessment process before assistance is approved. Speaking in Parliament, Minister for Health and Medical Services Atonio Lalabalavu said patients must first prove that the required treatment is unavailable in Fiji. Applications must include a medical report prepared or endorsed by a specialist, outlining the patient’s medical history, diagnosis, recommended overseas treatment, expected outcome, and supporting test results such as scans, X-rays, and blood reports. Applicants are also required to undergo a financial assessment to determine whether they can personally fund the treatment. Only individuals earning…
The High Court has again adjourned judgment in the murder case involving accused Apisai Madigibuli. Madigibuli is charged with allegedly murdering his pregnant wife, 26-year-old Kitiana Baravilala, by stabbing her multiple times at a Suva Apartment in April, 2024. The matter was called before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere at the Suva High Court this morning. Justice Tuiqereqere informed the court that the trial transcript is still not ready and apologised for the delay. State Counsel Shadaf Shameem appeared for the prosecution. Madigibuli represented himself during proceedings and elected to remain silent. The matter has been adjourned to next Thursday, the 4th…
CBA boss warns ofjob losses from AI