Fijians living in the maritime zone will, for the first-time, receive Government-funded assistance to transport building materials to their islands.
Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, last week announced the launch of the initiative, describing it as a milestone in efforts to ensure equitable access to infrastructure support across the country.
“This is a first milestone that demonstrates Government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to infrastructure support for all Fijians,” he said.
“By supporting the transportation of building materials, we are reducing costs for our maritime communities and directly investing in their growth, resilience, and quality of life.”
The program, backed by a $300,000 allocation in the 2025/2026 National Budget, is designed to ease the financial burden on first home owners and community projects by covering transportation costs for construction materials.
Under the scheme, Government Shipping Services (GSS) vessels will be used exclusively to deliver approved building materials, providing safe and reliable transport to remote communities.
Eligible applicants include first home owners building or renovating their primary residence, schools undertaking new construction or repair works – particularly those driven by community fundraising – and community projects endorsed by village, provincial or community leaders.
The ministry stated applications would be assessed through a transparent process. Prospective applicants must complete an official application form and provide supporting documents such as quotations, endorsements, building designs and approvals.
Forms are available from the Ministry’s office on Level 3, Nasilivata House, Samabula.
Ro Filipe encouraged maritime residents to take advantage of the assistance, adding that the program is aimed at building “stronger, more resilient maritime communities.”
