The Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Pacific Island Affairs
Australia and New Zealand joined the Kingdom of Tonga today to celebrate the completion of the Tonga Hawaiki Cable Branch System, the country’s second international undersea cable.
The cable was jointly funded by Australia, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), and New Zealand.
Integral to strengthening regional resilience and security, the cable provides Tongan communities and businesses with access to a more reliable, higher-capacity network, supporting essential services and furthering social and economic growth.
The second international undersea cable will also strengthen Tonga’s disaster resilience and response by reducing the risk of network disruptions, such as those experienced in 2019 and 2022.
The 405 kilometre Tonga Hawaiki Cable is part of a broader network of undersea telecommunications cables being delivered across the Pacific supported by the AIFFP, with several projects expected to come online this year.
The trilateral partnership between Australia, Tonga and New Zealand reflects a shared commitment to delivering high-quality critical infrastructure that responds to national and regional priorities, strengthens essential services, and delivers long-term, Pacific-led solutions that enhance our region’s security.
Quotes attributable to Foreign Minister Penny Wong:
“Australia is pleased to partner with Tonga and New Zealand to deliver the reliable, high-quality digital infrastructure needed to support regional economic growth, security and prosperity.
“Australia is the region’s largest development partner and a proud member of the Pacific family. Our region is stronger and more prosperous when we work in partnership to uplift and empower our economies and communities.”
Quotes attributable to Pacific Island Affairs Minister Pat Conroy:
“This initiative will support businesses, industries, and jobs, and help inform, engage, and empower people. It will help to build a stronger, more united region.
“Australia, through the AIFFP, is bolstering telecommunications resilience across the Pacific to ensure communities have access to reliable digital connectivity.”
“The cable will create new opportunities for Tonga’s people and businesses, while strengthening the country’s ability to stay connected during times of disruption.”
Media note: Imagery will be available at Celebration of the completion of Tonga Hawaiki Cable Branch System.