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Republic of Fiji 2019 - 2020 Budget Kit The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Table of Contents Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Office of the President Office of the Prime Minister Office of the Attorney-General Ministry of Economy Ministry of iTaukei Affairs Ministry of Defence and National Security Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations Ministry of Foreign Affairs Independent Bodies Independent Commissions Ministry of Disaster Management and Meteorological Services Ministry of Justice Fiji Corrections Service Ministry of Communications Ministry of Civil Service Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development Republic of Fiji Military Forces Fiji Police Force Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts 1 5 7 9 12 17 19 21 21 23 25 28 32 35 37 40 43 45 47 51 55 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Health and Medical Services Ministry of Housing and Community Development Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Ministry of Youth and Sports Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Schemes Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Fisheries Ministry of Forests Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources Ministry of Industry, Trade & Tourism Ministry of Sugar Industry Ministry of Local Government Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport Ministry of Waterways and Environment Water Authority of Fiji Fiji Roads Authority Health and Medical Services Detailed Expenditure Rural Electrification Projects Detailed Expenditure Water Authority of Fiji Detailed Expenditure Fiji Roads Authority Detailed Expenditure Revenue Policies 60 64 68 73 77 80 86 88 92 96 99 102 106 109 113 116 119 125 131 143 154 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation As Fiji continues to progress on a development trajectory in line with its 5-Year and 20-Year National Development Plan, the adverse impacts of climate change continue to present the single greatest threat to our development aspirations.
Soaring global temperatures are causing more frequent and severe cyclones that threaten to negate development progress, continued sea level rise places low-lying vulnerable communities at risk of inundation, and unpredictable weather patterns weather patterns threaten food security, livelihoods and human health.
The world must realise that climate change stands to destroy all that we hold dear today if we continue to increase greenhouse emissions and neglect climate adaptation needs, particularly for Pacific small island developing states.

Fiji remains on the frontlines of the global campaign for climate action through the leadership of our Honourable Prime Minister, Honourable Josaia Voreqe Bainarmama.
Following Fiji’s historic co- chairing of the first-ever UN Conference on Oceans and Presidency of COP23, Fiji is continuing to call for more ambitious global action in limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre- industrial levels.

Most recently, Fiji joined other Pacific Island countries in declaring that a climate crisis is upon the world, of a scale never before seen.

Fiji plans to live out the same expectations it is demanding from the rest of the world.
Domestically, it is imperative that all aspects of Fiji’s national development are sustainable, inclusive, resilient and low carbon.

In the 2019-2020 financial year, Government will continue to invest in climate mitigation and adaptation projects to build climate resilience, reduce national greenhouse emissions and implement transformative environmental conservation initiatives.
The total allocation towards climate related projects in 2019-2020 is $180.1 million which will fund 27 projects designated as climate adaptation and 8 as climate mitigation.

Allocations detailed in this flyer are already accounted for in Ministerial budgets and do not represent any additional expenditures.
New Policy Initiatives The Environment and Climate Adaptation Levy (‘ECAL’) has been widely praised for its innovative approach to mobilising public finance for targeted climate change and environment conservation projects.

To diversify revenue streams for ECAL, a 10% ECAL will be applied on the importation of the following items, which use high amounts of electricity and emit chlorofluorocarbons: 1 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights I. Smartphones III.
Freezer/Refrigerator V. Washing Machines VII.

Dryers - Commercial IX.

Electric Stoves XI.

Electric Lawn Mowers II.

Air conditioners IV.

Television VI.

Dryers - Household VIII.

Dishwashers X. Microwaves ECAL will once again play a crucial role in helping finance domestic climate action through projects programmed in the 2019-2020 National Budget.
To better address the growing need for community relocation, a proportion of ECAL proceeds will be placed into a newly formed Climate Relocation of Communities Trust Fund (‘CROC’) annually to help finance the relocation of vulnerable communities affected by climate change.

Government’s commitment to the CROC is expected to attract financing from donors and development partners.

A plastic bag ban will be imposed on all single use plastic bags including those with and without handles from 1 January 2020.
In addition to this, the current plastic bag levy of 20 cents will be increased to 50 cents from 1 January 2020 for low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic bags.

To support local manufacture of plastic bag alternatives, duty on the importation of non-woven bags will be increased from 15% to 32%.

Import duty on raw materials for production non- woven bags will decrease to zero percent.
To encourage low environmental impact consumption, duty on on paper/bamboo straws, paper containers, paper cups, paper plates, biodegradable kitchenware and tableware and environmentally friendly cleaning chemical and detergents will be reduced to zero percent.
To promote safer and environmentally friendlier waste management initiatives, the following incentives will be granted to companies engaged in waste recycling business in Naboro: Income tax exemption based on the following capital investment levels: Capital Investment $250,000 - $1,000,000 $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 More than $2,000,000 Tax Holiday 5 Years 7 Years 13 Years Import duty exemption on raw materials, plant, machinery and equipment (including spare parts) required for the establishment of the business.
2 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The Fijian Government seeks to develop projects to support its blue economy agenda and protect its ocean, reefs and sea life.

$100,000 has been allocated in the 2019-2020 Budget to explore ways to finance blue economy projects and tap new sources of funds from the international capital markets.
Major Allocations for Climate-Related Expenditure Ministry of Disaster Management and Meteorological Services: Increased emphasis will be placed on building community resilience to disaster risks through the upgrade of evacuation centres, installation of water level and rainfall equipment to better monitor flood prone areas and the replenishment of the Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund to provide urgent post- disaster assistance to affected communities ($2.9 million).
Climate Change and International Cooperation Division: The Government has partnered with the UK Space Agency on a project titled CommonSensing.

The 3-year project is designed to support and build climate resilience and enhance decision making through the use of remote sensing technology.
Specifically, it will strengthen national capacity to access climate finance and report on climate funds; strengthen national and regional climate action policy; reduce the impact of natural disasters and improve risk management and food security.
The Fijian Government will provide co-funding for project support services ($200,000) Ministry of Education Heritage and Arts: Building climate resilience of primary and secondary schools to address intermittent water supply perpetuated by increased dry weather patterns.

Approximately 199 schools will receive 5,200 litre water tanks in 2019-2020 ($300,000).
Ministry of Housing and Community Development: The Koroipita Model Town project, implemented by Model Towns Charitable Trust, will build engineered and serviced subdivisions and cyclone-safe houses together with guidance and support for the advancement of poor families by way of a holistic and dynamic community development programme.
Through the 2019-2020 National Budget, 15 acres of leased land adjacent to Koroipita will be developed as a fully serviced subdivision of 145 new houses using the Koroipita Model Town concept benefiting approximately 580 marginalised Fijians ($2.0 million).
Ministry of Women Children and Poverty Alleviation: The Construction of Fiji Barefoot College will see the establishment of the first-ever Women Solar Training Center in the Pacific envisaged to empower rural women to be solar engineers and build local capacity through electrifying poor off grid communities with clean low-cost solar energy solutions ($750,000).
Department of Energy: Installation and maintenance of solar home systems for rural off grid communities enabling access to renewable and affordable electricity to rural communities around Fiji.

This includes rehabilitation of solar home systems damaged by natural disasters.

($8.4 million).
($8.4 million).

Ministry of Forestry: Funding allocated for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest 3 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Degradation (REDD+) programme, a global mechanism for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, and other reforestation projects, given that forests can mitigate the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere ($490,700).
Water Authority of Fiji: Improving the capacity, reliability and resilience of water supply infrastructure around the country through the Water Distribution System Project.

The project will improve aging infrastructure and improve the reliability and safety of water supply during peak hours and in times of natural disasters ($25.2 million).
Fiji Roads Authority: Upgrading and construction of road infrastructure, including bridges, urban and peri-urban roads, to modern engineering standards that can withstand severe effects of climate change ($88.8 million).

Ministry of Economy: Rehabilitation and construction of schools and public buildings severely damaged by tropical cyclones Winston, Gita, Josie and Keni.

Rehabilitation works include rebuilding to higher cyclone resilient engineering standards ($35.0 million).
4 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Office of the President The Office of the President provides administrative and logistical support to the Head of State in the performance of their official duties.

The Office works in accordance with the Constitution of Fiji that will guide in the development of the nation, including the 5 Year and 20 Year National Development Plan.
These duties include: the signing of Bills passed by Parliament into law, opening each session of Parliament, attending ceremonial functions, responsibility as Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), state visits and an active community engagement programme.

The budget for Office of the President in 2019-2020 is $3.2 million comprising $3.1 million for operating expenditure and VAT of $0.2 million.

Another $0.3 million is allocated for capital expenditure under Head 50.
Office of the President 2019-2020 Budget Operating Expenditure Value Added Tax 6% 94% 5 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Purchase of furniture for State House: The State House is a historical and the most prominent building in Fiji that hosts ceremonial functions for Dignitaries and VVIP guests of the State and Government and is the private residence of the Head of State.
Government had the confidence to invest in a major renovation and restoration work on the State House in 2017, and after structural renovations and interior/exterior restoration works being completed as of May 2019, the Fijian landmark has now entered into the final stages of interior furnishing, with the goal of matching the building’s exquisite exterior and architecture with an interior suitable for hosting royals, dignitaries, heads of state and government, and other prominent guests from around the world –– and, most importantly, a building that all Fijians can proudly say represents the very best of our nation.
$250,000 is provided under Head 50: Miscellaneous Services for this procurement.

Preparations towards Fiji’s 50th Anniversary for Independence: Fiji as a nation has evolved and grown to greater heights, and on 10 October 2020, Fiji will mark 50 years as an independent republic –– an anniversary deserving of a national celebration.
His Excellency, the President has extended an invitation to Buckingham Palace for the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles Phillip Arthur George and the Duchess of Cornwall, Lady Camilla Rosemary Shand, to be Guests of Honour to this auspicious occasion.

$181,000 is allocated to commence with the preparatory works.
Service Medal and the Fiji College of Honour: funds logistical arrangements for special ceremonies for when the President has determined that significant contributions made by an individual to the nation is worthy of this high recognition ($200,000).

Ceremonial and Hospitality Expenses: covers hosting of ceremonial functions, extending traditional Fijian hospitality and leaving a lasting impact on the many world leaders who grace Fiji’s shores ($150,000).
Overseas Travel- His Excellency: funds official state visits by the President to all Pacific Island Countries in 2019-2020 ($400,000).

To carry out design and consultancy works at the President’s Office, Executive Office, Administration Block and Support Services Facilities that were built in 1900s.

$50,000 is provided under Head 50: Miscellaneous Services and will be administered by the Construction Implementation Unit of the Ministry of Economy.
6 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Office of the Prime Minister The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) assists the Prime Minister in the role of Head of Government and Chairperson of Cabinet by providing administrative and logistical support.

The Cabinet Office of the OPM provides Cabinet and the Prime Minister with secretarial support to ensure timely decisions for the effective running of Government.
The OPM also administers the implementation of a number of programmes, including the development of the mahogany industry, small grants and the coordination of donor funding for community development projects (particularly in rural areas and outer islands) and the administration of the Rotuma, Rabi and Kioa Island Councils.

The OPM has authority over the Department of Immigration, which is responsible for managing the flow of people across Fiji’s borders.
This includes passport issuance for Fijian citizens, entry and departure permits and the processing of applications for citizenship.

The budget for OPM in 2019-2020 is $17.6 million, comprising $12.7 million for operating expenditure, $4.4 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.5 million.
Office of the Prime Minister 2019-2020 Budget 3% 25% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 72% Value Added Tax 7 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives $500,000 is allocated for purchase of 40,000 e-passport booklets.

The passport will include a chip containing biometric details for verification as an added security feature and protect against forgery and identity theft.
$300,000 is allocated for ITC Upgrade to automate the manual processing system to mitigate the loss of physical files and provide better service delivery to all Fijians.

$80,000 is allocated to carry out the refurbishment works at the Nadi Safe House.

This will bolster facility’s security, keeping detainees safe and preventing escapees.
the Reaching out to rural and maritime areas and raising the standard of living for the Fijian people through: o Prime Minister’s Small Grants Scheme ($4.0 million): Education: upgrades school buildings (including kindergartens, classrooms and teachers’ quarters), sports grounds, and walkways/footpaths.

Also installs solar and water systems and fund the purchase of essential school furniture and equipment, such as computers, tables, and chairs.
Community Development: upgrades and construct evacuation centres, procures sports equipment for youth groups, funds women’s empowerment programmes through resource centres, constructs infrastructure projects (water, solar power, rural electrification, drainage improvement and bus shelters), and supports income generation projects, including the procurement of boats and outboard engines.
8 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Office of the Attorney-General The Office of the Attorney-General, under the management of the Solicitor-General, supports the Attorney-General in carrying out the role of chief legal advisor to the Government.
The office provides legal advice to Government and to all holders of public office on request, represents the State in court proceedings to which the State is a party (with the exception of criminal proceedings), drafts laws for Government, maintains the publicly accessible register of all written laws and performs other functions assigned by law, Cabinet or the Attorney-General.
The roles and functions of the Office of the Attorney-General are pivotal to ensuring that Government operates within the law at all times and that Fiji’s laws and legal practices are aligned to the Fijian Constitution, as well as international conventions and best practices.

The Department of Civil Aviation also comes under the Office of the Attorney-General and is responsible for expanding access to reliable aviation services for the Fijian people by regulating aviation activities in Fiji.
The Department is Government’s focal point for international civil aviation bodies and is empowered to negotiate air services agreements with other sovereign governments.

The total budget for Office of the Attorney-General in 2019-2020 is $11.1 million, comprising $10.8 million for operating expenditure, $0.1 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.3 million.
Office of the Attorney - General 2019-2020 Budget Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax 1% 2% 97% 9 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives $108,600 is provided for Door Management System (DMS) and upgrade of IT workstations.

This will include replacing the current DMS with a Biometric machine and purchase of IT equipment to support the DMS.
Reforming and modernising Fiji’s legal to address emerging frameworks challenges through: Drafting of Laws: the drafting of Bills, as directed by Cabinet or the Attorney-General, for tabling in Parliament ($300,000).

recommendations Law Reform: reviews laws and makes for reform.

Reviews are currently being carried out on the Copyright Act, implications of climate change and land leasing agreements ($300,000).
legal the Revision of Laws: continuously revises written laws to incorporate new amendments by Parliament or new regulations by Government ($300,000).

Set Up Costs (Fiji International Arbitration and Mediation Center): supports Fiji’s commitment to law and order and its ongoing mission to establishing Fiji as the premier Pacific country in adapting modern legal practices and frameworks ($25,000).
Supporting transparent and accountable institutions, including the development of robust and professional media organisations and media services in Fiji through: Freedom of Information: the Information Act 2018 was enacted by Parliament in 2018 and has not commenced.

$75,000 will be utilised to draft subsidiary legislation and other laws in relation to the public’s right to access information held by the Government, which is a right enshrined in the Constitution.
10 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Regulating air transport in Fiji and expanding access to aviation services for the Fijian people through: Operational Grant to Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji: supports the operations of the Civil Aviation Authority to regulate activities of airport operators, air traffic control, air navigation service providers, airline operators, pilots, aircraft engineers, technicians, airports, airline contracting organisations and international air cargo operators in Fiji ($700,000).
Domestic Air Services Subsidy: ensures reliable air services to Fiji’s outer islands ($1.85 million).

Aircraft Accident Investigation: funds any necessary investigations on aircraft accidents ($250,000).

11 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Economy The Ministry of Economy is responsible for managing public finances in accordance with the Fijian Constitution and the Financial Management Act 2004.
The Ministry carries out economic and financial forecasting and analysis; manages Government’s national budget, debt and financial and physical assets, oversees fiscal policy and tax collection; implements financial management reforms; and ensures that Government can procure the goods and services required to maximise services delivered to the Fijian people.
The Ministry through its functional units promotes sound economic management of the Fijian economy through analysis, efficient budgeting and proactive planning.

The Ministry’s Budget and Planning Division formulates the Government’s national budget and coordinates with ministries and departments to ensure effective implementation.

The Fiscal Policy Research and Analysis (FPRA) Division provides sound analysis and advice on appropriate fiscal and taxation policies to be considered in the National Budget.
It also prepares supplementary budget documentation and statistics; forecasts Government revenues; monitors Government’s financial performance and cash flow trends; assists in the preparation of macroeconomic forecasts; appraises applications for tax incentives and concessions; monitors global developments that could impact the domestic economy; and designs relevant fiscal responses to mitigate potential risks.

Climate adaptation has been engrained into every level of Fiji’s national development.
Through the Climate Change and International Cooperation Division, the Fijian Government coordinates climate-informed development planning, including the coordination of climate finance, development cooperation and the monitoring and evaluation of Sustainable Development Goals.
In the 2019- 2020 Budget, Government’s climate action has extended to Fiji’s oceans in a substantial way; these “Blue Economy” initiatives include the establishment of a Marine Managed Area and the exploration of new Blue Bonds to finance oceans-related programmes.

The Construction Implementation Unit (CIU) ensures effective management of capital construction projects and maintenance of government housing and quarters.
The Unit has been instrumental in the implementation and rehabilitation of schools and public buildings after severe weather events.

The Unit will also administer the Capital Project database, yet another initiative that will be launched as part of Government’s sweeping digital transformation of the Government.

The electronic database is a one-stop shop for all information on construction related capital projects, and will capture information on project life cycle while minimising paper use.
12 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The Internal Audit and Good Governance Division is responsible for undertaking the internal audit function for Government.

With the aim of strengthening internal controls and good governance, the Division has strengthened its auditing processes, by automating it, and is working towards full compliance with international internal auditing standards.
The Fiji Bureau of Statistics is responsible for statistics production, analysis and publication in a timely and coherent manner.

The agency is entrusted to provide official statistics on a wide range of economic, social, population and environmental matters of importance to Fiji to better inform policy and decision making.
The Ministry also oversees the Department of Public Enterprises that implements reform programmes and monitors the performance and operations of public enterprises to increase their efficiency and effectiveness.

The total budget for the Ministry of Economy in the 2019-2020 Budget is $87.0 million, comprising $82.5 million for operating expenditure, $3.7 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.8 million.
Ministry of Economy 2019-2020 Budget 1% 4% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 95% Value Added Tax Aid-in-kind: $4.2m 13 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives With the aim of moving Government procurement to a more advanced and digital process, the Ministry of Economy has launched the e-Tender portal which is an internet based on-line platform wherein the tendering process from receiving to submitting tender-related information is done online.
It has replaced the current paper-based tender process which has strengthened the transparency and accountability in the awarding of government tenders ($30,000).

User Licence - Capital Projects Database: captures information on project life cycle with minimum use of paper via a one-stop shop for all information on construction-related capital projects.
With this innovative system, all approvals can be made online, from workflow from project initiation to project commissioning and, later, archiving records for future references.

It will also keep records of all facilities under Asset Management Modules including Government Quarters, Office Space, Grant Management and Schools ($60,000).

CommonSensing: funds this new project, designed to support and build climate resilience and enhance decision making through the use of remote sensing technology.
Specifically, it will strengthen national capacity to access climate finance and report on climate funds; strengthen national and regional climate action policy; reduce the impact of natural disasters and improve risk management and food security.

CommonSensing brings together nine organisations with world-leading expertise in satellite remote sensing, sustainable development, business analysis, data analysis and modelling and climate change funding.
The project is led by the UNITAR’s Operational Satellite Applications programme (UNOSAT) working with the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Satellite Applications Catapult, Devex International, Radiant Earth, the United Kingdom’s Met Office, Sensonomic and the University of Portsmouth ($200,000).

$100,000 is allocated for the Ocean and Blue Economy Initiatives.
This program will explore ways to finance blue economy projects whereby the Fijian Government will develop projects to support its blue economy and protect the ocean, reefs and sea life.
To further enhance revenue collection, border protection and trade and travel facilitation through the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, $55.2 million is provided to FRCS to assist the Government in collecting revenue, providing quality advice on tax and customs matter to all our stakeholders; and facilitating trade and travel and protect the borders.

FRCS services are available from ten locations throughout Fiji: Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, Levuka, Nadi, Rakiraki, Nausori, Savusavu, Sigatoka and Suva.
Regular visitations are also held with outer islands, often in partnership with Government.

14 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The continuation of Vehicle Leasing Scheme to provide access to cars and other specialised vehicles for agencies such as the Fiji Police Force and Republic of Fiji Military Forces through the Government Fleet Management Unit ($20.0 million – allocated under Head 50).
Construction Implementation and Management of Public Buildings: coordinates the implementation of major capital construction or maintenance works.

This includes the management of public buildings, including rental and administration of housing allowance ($74.2 million – allocated under Head 50).

The Ministry will also carry out early construction works at for funerary rites facilities in the Western and Northern Division ($200,000 – allocated under Head 50).
The Fiji Bureau of Statistics will continue to undertake the Household, Income and Expenditure Survey: to complete the 2018 HIES which is carried out every 5 years to collect information about the social economic reality of the country by collecting household’s annual income and expenditure ($1.0 million).
FBOS will also undertake the Employment and Unemployment Survey, the only national survey that can assess the employment and unemployment rate of the country, providing in-depth information such as patterns of employment and unemployment; characteristics of unemployment; geographical distribution of the working population; employment with disabilities; employment and unemployment with different levels of education; child labour, and general conditions of work ($127,513).
The Procurement of two Servers for the FBOS that will assist in storing a central database to conveniently manage raw data, extract useful insight and publish reports on demand.

The second server, a first-of-its-kind innovation, will aid in disaster recovery by allowing business continuity in case of an IT disaster ($200,000).
The Department of Public enterprises monitors Government’s portfolio of commercial companies, including: Energy Fiji Limited; Fiji Broadcasting Corporation; Airports Fiji Ltd; Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Ltd; Food Processors (Fiji) Ltd; Post Fiji Ltd; Fiji Rice Ltd; Unit Trust of Fiji Ltd; Viti Corp Corporation Ltd; Yaqara Pastoral Company Ltd; and Fiji Hardwood Corporation Ltd.
Majority Owned Companies are: Fiji Pine Limited; Pacific Fishing Company Ltd; Copra Millers Fiji Ltd; and Air Terminal Services.

Commercial Statutory Authorities include the Fiji Meat Industry Board; Housing Authority; Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji; Water Authority of Fiji; and Public Rental Board.
15 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ensuring the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji has the capacity and capability to safeguard Fiji against any biological threat through: Biosecurity Authority of Fiji Capital Grant: supports ongoing programmes for quarantine control and protection against the incursion of biological threats.

The grant will fund activities of the Asian Subterranean Termite Programme; National Plant Health Surveillance Programme; and Giant Invasive Iguana Programme.
($1.0 million).

Biosecurity Authority of Fiji Operating Grant: covers the operational costs of BAF, specifically wages and salaries of staff ($1.0 million).
To further improve efficiency, performance and support private sector participation in public enterprises: Consultancy Fees: leverages expertise from around the world to support the divestment of public enterprises like Energy Fiji Ltd and Food Processors Fiji Ltd, and other Government departments like the Government Printing Department ($1.46 million).
Fiji Rice Ltd – Capital Grant: supports the ongoing upgrade of the Dreketi Mill to meet international food and safety requirements and accommodate the increased supply of rice by farmers ($800,000).

Copra Millers of Fiji Ltd – Capital Grant: supports the ongoing upgrade of its processing plant and to support the company’s replanting initiatives to replace senile coconut trees ($1.5 million).
16 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of iTaukei Affairs The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs is responsible for developing policy solutions and providing services for the good governance and well-being of Fiji’s iTaukei people.

It is the duty of the Ministry to uphold the rights of iTaukei, as enshrined in the Fijian Constitution, over their land and fishing grounds, and to their fair share of royalties from minerals extracted from their land.
Through its work, the Ministry ensures that iTaukei institutions operate with the best interests of all iTaukei in mind and to carry out the Fijian Government’s commitment to promote and preserve iTaukei culture, customs, traditions and language.

The Ministry also works to empower iTaukei landowners to make sustainable and productive use of the land so that they raise their standard of living.
For iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB), which is the trustee responsible for the administration of customary land on behalf of all iTaukei landowners, the Ministry provides policy advice and other support to the Prime Minister and Minister of iTaukei Affairs as chairperson of the iTLTB.

The total budget for the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs in 2019-2020 is $15.4 million, comprising $14.7 million for operating expenditure, $0.5 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.2 million.
Ministry of iTaukei Affairs 2019-2020 Budget 1% 3% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 96% Value Added Tax 17 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives: The Ministry has completed the Vola ni Kawa Bola (VKB) Digitisation and has rolled it out to the Provincial Councils.

for network synchronisation with Registrar of Births, Deaths & Marriage, Ministry of Health, iTLTB and other Government and non-governmental agencies.
In 2019-2020, $183,239 is allocated for VKB $9.1 million is allocated to iTaukei Affairs Board (iTAB), Provincial Councils, Turaga-ni-Koros, Mata-ni-Tikinas and Na Mata: funds the operations of the iTAB and Provincial Councils and covers the monthly allowances of Turaga-ni-Koros, which have been increased from $75 to $87 per month to better support their roles in developing communities.
$50,000 is allocated to cater for the Tabua Shop expenses, protecting and promoting iTaukei cultural heritage by monitoring and regulating the circulation of tabua with a state-of-the-art engraving service and national database.
Operational and Capital Budget for iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission: funds the operations of the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission and covers capital expenditure, namely, the demarcation of un-surveyed land, survey of demarcated land and demarcation of village boundaries.
In the upcoming budget cycle, planned works include the demarcation in Serua (scheduled for completion by 2021), Lau (scheduled for completion by 2023), Koro and Nadi (scheduled for completion by 2022) and the continued demarcation and registration of another 80 villages in the Register of iTaukei Villages ($2.5 million).
18 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Defence and National Security The Ministry of Defence and National Security is responsible for Fiji’s national security, including upholding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Ministry carries out this responsibility through implementation of Fiji’s National Security Strategy and policy oversight of two of Fiji’s Discipline Forces, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and Fiji Police Force (FPF).
The total budget for the Ministry of Defence and National Security in 2019-2020 is $16.5 million, comprising $15.5 million for operating expenditure, $0.7 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.3 million.
Ministry of Defence and National Security 2019-2020 Budget 2% 4% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 94% Value Added Tax Major Initiatives To administer government pensions, gratuities and benefits through: Fiji Serviceman’s Aftercare Fund: funds the monthly allowances, medical and educational assistance to ex-servicemen or their beneficiaries.
This is a transfer from Ministry of Economy to allow the Ministry of Defence and National Security to administer the release of the funds to the recipients ($11.7 million).

19 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights To coordinate the implementation of the national security strategy: o National Security and Defence Review (NSDR) Secretariat: covers operational funding for the Secretariat, strengthening its capacity to implement Fiji’s National Security Strategy ($976,184).
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Rehabilitation: promotes the operational functions of Blackrock to serve not only as a pre-deployment training centre, but also as a regional humanitarian and disaster rehabilitation centre.
The funds will be used to host visiting delegations from around the world who would potentially finance this valuable project –– one that would bring international humanitarian aid closer to the doorstep of effected Fijians and citizens of other climate-vulnerable nations in the Pacific ($20,000).
To commemorate important events in Fiji’s history: Fiji Day Celebrations: covers the hosting of celebrations in additional areas of Fiji, namely Nausori, Sigatoka, Nadi, Rakiraki, Labasa, Taveuni, Levuka and remote areas of Fiji ($250,000).

Remembrance Day Celebrations: covers annual commemorations at the 12 ex-servicemen branches around the country ($120,000).
Relocation of 3DP Coastal Radio Station: involves the relocation of current 3DP Coastal Radio Station from Togalevu Training Base, the Rescue Coordination Center and Hydrography Services from Walu Bay to Government Shipping Services facility in Lami.

This will enhance radio transmissions to mariners, making Fijian waters a safer environment for seafaring.
The 2019-2020 funding is for Phase 1 of the relocation works which includes; fencing, drainage, and construction of guard room, sewerage, lighting works and consultancy ($400,000).

Completion of Phase 6 of the National War Memorial Project: funds the completion of all preparatory works including the purchase and installation of Statue of an Unknown Soldier prior to construction of the museum and memorial ($280,000).
20 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations promotes and advances the rights of workers and employers, and administers and enforces the Employment Relations Promulgation 2007, Health and Safety at Work Act 1997, National Employment Centre Decree 2009 and the Workers Compensation Act (Cap.

94).
94).

The Ministry implements labour reforms aimed at building good-faith relations between workers, employers and Government, and works to boost the nation’s productivity.

It is responsible for spreading education and awareness of Fijian labour in schools and among the general public.

The total budget for the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations in 2019-2020 is $13.4 million, comprising $13.0 million for operating expenditure and VAT of $0.4 million.
Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations 2019-2020 Budget 3% 97% Operating Expenditure Value Added Tax Major Initiatives In collaboration with the Australian Government, the Ministry has introduced Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) that will increase labor mobility opportunities in Australia.

The PLS scheme will assist the Government’s National Development target to reduce the unemployment rate to below 4% by 2021.
The scheme will allow Fijian citizens to work for longer periods from one to three years, as opposed to just nine months under the Seasonal Work Program ($191,743).
21 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Promoting the rights of all workers in Fiji to prevent inhumane treatment and uphold safe working conditions through the regularization of 14 Assistant Labour Officer Positions, a move that will boost the Ministry’s capacity to conduct labour inspections among 15,000 companies over the next five years.
The officers will also assist in creating awareness on labour laws, and ensure that the workers are advised on the minimum terms and conditions stipulated within the Employment Relations Act 2007.

Through investigation of Labour complaints in the 2018-2019 financial year alone, the Ministry managed to settle a total of 2,324 cases on Labour complaints and recover $3.8 million as wages due to workers.
In collaboration with Fiji Higher Education Commission, the Ministry hosted its first-ever National Job Fair, creating an opportunity for Fijians –– in particular, young people –– to become better informed about the many educational and employment opportunities that are open to them.

The ministry will continue to build on the success of this event in 2019-2020.
Workmen’s Compensation Programme: ensures that compensation is paid out to workers employed by Government who have suffered temporary or permanent job-related injuries ($1.0 million).

The Ministry will continue with the Apprenticeship Schemes that funds the four-year apprenticeships with technical skills to help further their careers ($200,000).
Foreign Employment Service Unit: continues to promote foreign employment opportunities through the seasonal work programme and other direct employment opportunities.

In the past financial year, 551 Fijians were deployed overseas for foreign employment opportunities ($712,132).

Fiji Volunteer Service Scheme: enhances volunteerism service delivery through streamlined management under the National Employment Centre.
The FVS program provides opportunities for new graduates to gain work experience, and retirees to share their skills and knowledge with a new generation.

A total of 292 Graduate Volunteers /Retirees was engaged under this arrangement from 2012 to 2019, with benefitting Ministries and Departments evenly splitting the cost ($850,000).
22 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Foreign Affairs The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for carrying out Fiji’s foreign policy by maintaining and strengthening Fiji’s diplomatic relations, building bridges of cooperation with development partners, and growing trade with other nations through its 15 overseas missions throughout the world.

Fiji has established formal diplomatic relations with 182 countries.
Over the past 49 years of evolution as an independent republic, Fiji has showcased its capability to lead the world on critical issues confronting humanity, from climate change to oceans sustainability and the protection of human rights.

The total budget for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2019-2020 is $43.4 million, comprising $40.4 million for operating expenditure, $1.4 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $1.6 million.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2019-2020 Budget 4% 3% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 93% Value Added Tax Major Initiatives $200,000 is allocated for Fiji to chair the support towards Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Chairmanship and World Bank Forum of Small States.
PSIDS chairs all the Pacific small island missions in New York and plays a fundamental advocacy role in voicing the concerns and challenges of the Pacific island countries to the rest of the world, particularly on issues such as climate change and sustainable development.
23 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights $126,000 is allocated for Fiji’s seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council, where Fiji –– the first-ever Pacific island nation to hold a position on this prestigious council –– is currently serving a member and Vice President.
Upgrade Works: two major upgrade works will be undertaken in the 2019-2020 financial year: $700,000 is allocated for the Upgrade of Fiji House in Wellington, as the Fiji House is in a dilapidated state and needs major maintenance work.

$400,000 is allocated for the Refurbishment of Fiji House in Canberra, including undertaking major renovation works to restore the building to a state worthy of hosting delegations and dignitaries.
Maintaining Fiji’s strong leadership role in regional and international organisations and working to meet the goals of various international agreements through: Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) Secretariat: funds the operations of the PIDF Secretariat in Suva.

The PIDF is a regional partnership platform where leaders and representatives of Pacific Small Island Developing States and territories can address regional development challenges ($1.2 million).
PRUN Military Advisor: funds the deployment of a senior military officer to the Office of the Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York to handle any issues arising from peacekeeping deployments with the UN Headquarters ($400,000).

Advancing Fijian interests through overseas and consular services through: Procurement of Vehicles: funds the procurement of vehicles in foreign missions.
Funds will cover the replacement of vehicles in Korea, Jakarta and Wellington ($306,600 is allocated under Head 50).

Capital Refurbishment of Mission Properties: funds the refurbishment of missions in Canberra and London ($200,000).

$100,000 is allocated for capital procurement of office equipment and furniture for all the missions based on priority needs.
24 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Independent Bodies Fiji’s Independent Bodies operate independently of any other office and, along with Independent Commissions, make up the system of checks and balances that upholds the rule of law, ensures representative government and provides external oversight to secure and maintain transparent and accountable Government.
These Independent Bodies are: the Parliament, the Judiciary; Office of the Auditor General (OAG); Fijian Elections Office (FEO); Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP); and Media Industry Development Authority (MIDA).

The budget for Independent Bodies in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $84.7 million.
Independent Bodies 2019-2020 Budget 0.2% 9% 8% 8% 12% Aid-in-Kind: Judiciary- $ 1.6m Parliament- $7.3m 64% Office of the Auditor General Fijian Elections Office Judiciary Parliament Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Media Industry Development Authority 25 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Office of the Auditor-General The Office of the Auditor-General is an independent office established under section 151 of the Fijian Constitution.
The Constitution also requires that the Auditor-General to annually audit and the public accounts of the State, the control of public money and property of the State, and all transactions with or concerning the public money or public property of the State, and report these finding to Parliament.

The budget of the Auditor-General in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $6.4 million.
Fijian Elections Office (FEO) The FEO, along with the Electoral Commission, is responsible for the independent preparation work and conduct of national elections for Parliament every four years and any other election assigned under law.

The budget of the FEO in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $6.4 million, which involves maintenance of voter rolls and general non-election-year preparatory works.
Judiciary Section 96 of the Fijian Constitution vests the judicial authority of the State in Fiji's courts to resolve disputes and uphold the rule of law.

The budget for the Judiciary in 2019-2020 comprises an operational grant of $54.4 million, ensuring that the courts have adequate resources to perform its functions and exercise its powers properly.

Major Initiatives $750,000 is allocated to undertake early construction works for New High Court House at Tagimoucia Place, Lautoka.
$500,000 is allocated for the upgrade the existing Court Complexes.

$750,000 is allocated to cater for the consultancy and construction for extension of new cell block at Government Buildings.

26 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights $6.0 million is provided to continue with the construction works on a new two-storey court equipped with modern amenities and services for legal aid, the family court and counselling service in Nasinu.
$1.5 million is provided to continue the construction of the new Veiuto Court Complex – involving the upgrade of four administration buildings at the old parliament complex.

$2.5 million is allocated to commence the construction works for the relocation of the Ba Magistrates Court, with an additional $100,000 to fund works at the new Lautoka High Court.

Parliament Section 46 of the Fijian Constitution establishes a democratically-elected Parliament with the authority and power to make laws for the State.
Parliament is the voice of the Fijian people, and it is responsible for ensuring representative governance, facilitating open debate of Fiji’s most relevant issues, and providing oversight of Government activities.

The budget for Parliament in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $10.2 million.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is an independent office by virtue of section 117 of the 2013 Constitution.
The ODPP is driven by the core principle that, in the interest of upholding Fijian justice, the guilty be brought to justice and the innocent are absolved.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) plays a key role in supporting the enforcement of criminal laws in Fiji in addition to Government-ratified international laws, treaties and conventions, and oversees the continued development and maintenance of a just and fair criminal justice system.
The budget of ODPP in 2019-2020 comprises an operational grant of $7.2 million.

Media Industry Development Authority (MIDA) Operational Grant to Media Industry Development Authority: supports the operations of MIDA to ensure that media services in Fiji are maintained at a high standard in all respects ($150,000).
27 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Independent Commissions Fiji’s independent commissions serve the Fijian people in specialised areas where objective, technical judgment is essential.

They apply the law independently and are valuable tools for transparent and accountable governance by upholding the rights of individuals and communities across all corners of society.
Fiji’s independent commissions include: the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission; Accountability and Transparency Commission; Constitutional Offices Commission; Public Service Commission (PSC); Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji; Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC); Legal Aid Commission; Online Safety Commission; Electoral Commission; and Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC).
The budget of Independent Commissions in 2019-2020 comprises $33.6 million in operating grants.
Independent Commissions 2019-2020 Budget 3.6% 0.1% 12.9% 0.6% 0.6% 23.9% 31.8% Human Rights and Anti Discrimination Commission Accountability and Transparency Constitutional Offices Commission Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Public Service Commission Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji Legal Aid Commission Online Safety Commission Electoral Commission Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission 18.9% Aid-in-Kind: Legal Aid Commission-$2.0m 6.7% 28 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (HRADC) The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has independent authority under the Constitution to promote the protection and observance of, and respect for, human rights in all spheres of life and to take steps to secure appropriate redress for any human rights violations.
This includes initiating investigations and court proceedings and monitoring compliance by the State with human rights treaties and conventions.

The budget of HRADC in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $1.2 million.

Accountability and Transparency Commission The Accountability and Transparency Commission is established as an independent commission under the Constitution to carry out roles and responsibilities assigned to it under any laws enacted by Parliament.
The budget of the commission in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $250,000.

Constitutional Offices Commission The Constitutional Offices Commission is an independent commission responsible for providing advice to the President for the appointment of constitutional offices, including the chairperson and members of most independent commissions and offices, as well as the Commissioner of Police, Commissioner of Corrections and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
The budget of the commission in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $50,000.

Public Service Commission (PSC) PSC is responsible for setting consistent service standards across the Fijian civil service by enforcing guidelines and administering the Procedural Review Process and Performance Assessment Framework of Permanent Secretaries.

The budget of PSC in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $6.3 million.
29 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) FICAC is Fiji’s independent anti-corruption agency responsible for investigating and prosecuting alleged corruption and bribery offences.
FICAC is also responsible for examining the practices and procedures of any public bodies in order to eliminate corrupt practices, carry out public awareness to educate communities about the dangers of corruption, and, upon request, to personally assist anyone looking to uproot corrupt practices.

The budget of FICAC in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $8.0 million.
Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji The Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji is charged with independently administering a no- fault compensation scheme for injuries and deaths from motor vehicle, employment and school accidents, with the option of either receiving compensation or pursuing claims through legal proceedings.

The budget of FACC in 2019-2020 comprises of an operating grant of $2.3 million.
Legal Aid Commission Every person arrested or detained in Fiji has the right under the Constitution to communicate with a legal practitioner.

The Legal Aid Commission is established and empowered under the Constitution with the independent authority to provide free legal services to Fijians that cannot afford them.

The budget of the commission in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $10.7 million.
The Online Safety Commission The Online Safety Commission receives complaints from any individual who has reason to believe that he or she is the target or recipient of electronic communication intended or likely to cause harm.

The budget of the commission in 2019-2020 covers an operating grant of $200,000.
Electoral Commission The Electoral Commission is constituted as an independent, non-partisan authority that has 30 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights responsibility for the registration of voters and the conduct of free and fair elections in accordance with the written law governing elections.

The budget of the commission in 2019-2020 consists of an operating grant of $211,430.
Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is an independent statutory body that promotes effective competition and informed markets, encourages fair trading, protects consumers and businesses from restrictive practices, and controls prices of regulated industries and other markets where competition is lessened or limited.
FCCC will be empowered with new financial independence in this financial year, allowing it to transform into a model for sustainable business practices in its own right.

The budget of the commission in 2019-2020 comprises an operating grant of $4.3 million.
31 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Disaster Management and Meteorological Services The Ministry of Disaster Management and Meteorological Services coordinates and integrates `the services that supports disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

Due to the effects of climate change, weather events such as Cyclone Winston are going to become more frequent and more severe.
In light of this projection, the Ministry will work more seamlessly to coordinate emergency response operations in the aftermath of a disaster, and work to improve Fiji’s resilience to natural disasters and the other severe effects of climate change.

Under the meteorology and hydrology portfolio, the Ministry will provide timely and reliable weather, hydrology and climate information directly to the public to improve overall preparedness prior to a disaster.
The budget of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Meteorological Services in 2019-2020 is $12.8 million, comprising $8.8 million for operating expenditure, $3.6 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.4 million.
Ministry of Disaster Management and Meteorological Services 2019-2020 Budget 3% 28% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 69% Value Added Tax Aid-in-Kind: $5.7m 32 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Providing timely and accurate weather forecasting services for business continuity through: Purchase of Equipment: funds the purchase of specialised equipment for Laucala Weather Forecasting Centre to improve the weather forecasting services and bring back services online for continuity of business without any delay in terms of any disaster ($400,000).
Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite System Upgrade: funds hardware upgrades to improve the monitoring of severe weather conditions such as flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes ($138,000).

Disaster Risk Reduction Policy: supports the awareness costs at Divisional levels, support the development of risk strategies and planning and mapping of monitoring documents.
In addition, Fiji’s becoming the first country to ratify the Sendai Framework through the National Disaster Management Office ($50,000).

Providing support to affected Fijians in the aftermath of a disaster through: Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund: funds immediate response, relief or rehabilitation efforts during national disasters ($800,000).
Building up Fiji’s resilience to disasters through: Upgrade and Maintenance of Evacuation Centres: funds evacuation centre construction and the retrofitting of existing halls to help ensure safety in vulnerable communities, especially in the event of disaster ($1.8 million).
Providing timely and reliable meteorology and hydrology information through: Multimedia Publication Awareness Program: develops resource materials to educate students about meteorology, particularly on terms used in disaster warnings ($50,000).

Upgrade of Outer Island Stations on Viwa and Udu Point: secures equipment, instruments and buildings at meteorological outstations to ensure that reliable information can be received in times of disaster for the entire Fiji Group.
Funding will also go towards preserving 33 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights a safe working environment for station officers and their families on site ($200,000).

Installation of Water Level & Rainfall Telemetry Equipment: involves the continuous procurement and installation of water level and rainfall telemetry instruments at all hydrological stations located near major rivers around Fiji for proactive flood monitoring ($265,080).
Enlightening public and creating awareness in maritime Islands through: World Meteorological Day: showcases the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services for the safety and wellbeing of society through an annual, nationwide commemoration on 23 March 2020 ($50,000).

34 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Justice The Ministry of Justice is responsible for the administration of law and justice in Fiji.
The Ministry delivers judicial services through registries established by law to maintain official records of legal documents.

These registries register companies, businesses, credit unions, money lenders, justices of the peace, titles, deeds, births, deaths and marriages.

The Ministry expanded the provision of births, deaths and marriages services in order to improve access for all Fijians by decentralizing services through the establishment of 13 Births, Deaths and Marriages offices throughout Fiji.
The Registrar of Companies is engaged with the digital transformation project, a groundbreaking initiative that will allow members of the public to register Fijian business online for the first time, greatly streamlining the establishment of new Fijian enterprises.

The total budget for the Ministry of Justice in 2019-2020 is $6.1 million, comprised of $5.8 million for operating expenditure, $0.1 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.2 million.
Ministry of Justice 2019-2020 Budget 3% 1% 96% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid-in-Kind: $8.3m 35 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Improving access for the Fijian people to high quality judicial services through: o Office Upgrade and Refurbishment – HQ: upgrades the main Registrar of Titles Office at Civic Tower in Suva to ensure proper storage and improve service quality through easier access to titles and deeds for public searches.
$275,000 is provided under Head 50: Miscellaneous Services and will be administered by the Construction Implementation Unit of the Ministry of Economy.

o Digitisation Programme: in cooperation with Singapore Corporation Enterprise, works to digitise all Ministry companies, titles and BDM records under the Ministry of Communications digitalFIJI initiative, a move that will better preserve information, improve public access, and facilitate other business through e-government services ($281,906).
Ensuring effective policy oversight of Fijian law and justice through: Anti-Corruption Activities: ensures appropriate networking and coordination between various agencies responsible for anti-money laundering and anti-corruption including financial reporting, law enforcement, immigration and customs ($50,000).
Consumer Tribunal: provides a flexible and easily-accessible redress mechanism for consumers who do not have the option to seek justice through the courts because of the nature of the legal system and costly legal fees ($100,000).
36 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Fiji Corrections Service The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) is responsible for properly and safely detaining and rehabilitating persons sentenced to a term of imprisonment or placed on remand pending trial by the courts at its correctional centres.

FCS is committed to meeting international standards and best practices, including compliance with all human rights obligations for the treatment of inmates.
To strengthen the justice system as outlined in the 5-Year and 20-Year National Development Plan (NDP), the Department is in the midst of a number of capital construction projects and a modernisation programme, leveraging technology to improve the operations of its correctional centres and improve the quality of its rehabilitation works.
The total budget for the FCS in 2019-2020 is $35.8 million, comprising $30.0 million for operating expenditure, $4.7 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $1.1 million.
Fiji Corrections Service 2019-2020 Budget 3% 13% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 84% Value Added Tax 37 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Operating modern, functional corrections facilities and a well-trained workforce through: Established Staff: ensures compliance with UN minimum standards for the treatment of inmates under the Geneva Convention to provide one officer for every four inmates.
This allocation funds staffing the correction facilities throughout the country, and covers corresponding allowances ($22.0 million).

Rehabilitation and Yellow Ribbon Programmes: continues support of the FCS’s rehabilitation programs, which include its therapeutic, upskilling and training programmes ($200,000) and flagship Yellow Ribbon Program, which creates public awareness about how communities can help successfully reintegrate inmates into society ($200,000).
Rations: caters for food rations for Fiji’s 13 penal institutions to purchase of rations in-line with approved dietary guidelines ($2.1 million).

Ration – Prison Dogs: covers food and veterinary care for 38 prison dogs at FCS’s four dog kennels, namely; Lautoka, Nasinu, Labasa and Naboro Corrections Centre ($60,000).

Supply Maintenance: funds general stores, including beddings and utensils for inmates and operational staff, operational stores, and emergency stores in case of natural disasters ($600,000).
Various allocations to continue the operations of the Correction facilities during 2019-2020: Construction of Retaining Wall (Gabion) at Levuka Corrections Centre: funds the consultancy and design works for the construction of retaining wall (Gabion) to protect the building from future landslides at the Levuka CC ($100,000).
Purchase and Installation of Razor Wire: funds the purchase and installation of stainless steel razor wire with clips which will replace the current wires installed at all correctional facilities ($120,000).

o Purchase of Generators: funds the purchase of two 60KVA generator sets as back-up 38 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights power supplies for the two newly built facilities; Lautoka Women’s Correction Centre and the Naboro K9 Dog kennel ($120,000).
Electrical Upgrade Works: continues upgrade works at Naboro, Suva and Lautoka Correction Centre.

The completion of this project will reduce the funds spent on annual electricity supply ($250,000).
Upgrade and Maintenance of Institutional Buildings and Repair and Maintenance of Institutional Infrastructure: funds the preliminary work on access roads to Naboro, cemetery roads under FCS and drainage works at the new K9 Dog unit in Naboro, phase 3 upgrade works on the maximum CC, upgrade of the Lautoka dormitory, conversion of the old Lautoka remand block into a mess hall, and pre-release facilities, following the conversion of the library into prison dormitories ($1.0 million).
Upgrade and Maintenance of Staff Quarters: continues upgrade and maintenance of quarters and barracks at Lautoka and Naboro Correction Centre ($600,000).

Institutional Boundary Fencing: funds new fencing for the Naboro Medium Facility and Nasinu farm ($400,000).

CCTV: funds the installation of complete CCTV cameras at all correctional centres in Fiji to improve security ($250,000).

Upgrade of Public Cemeteries: funds phases 2 and 3 of the upgrading of cemeteries across Fiji ($1.0 million).
Construction of Supervisors Office in Labasa: funds the construction of a new Supervisors Office at Labasa Correction Centre ($200,000).

New locks: replaces all chubb locks at the Naboro Medium, Minimum, Nasinu and Lautoka CCs ($135,000).

Flood prevention: covers the installation of boulders at the Lautoka creek running adjacent to the vegetable farm and yards, which is essential for controlling the flow of water during high density rainy periods ($100,000).
39 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Communications The Ministry of Communications is responsible for keeping the Fijian people connected –– both to each other and to the outside world –– by providing efficient, competitive, cost-effective and accessible telecommunication and postal services.

The Ministry also manages all ICT systems in the Fijian Government.
The Ministry engages with the Fijian public through a diverse offering of radio, print and online media to keep the Fijian people updated on Government’s plans and policies and to quickly alert the public to important information.

The Ministry comprises the Department of Information, Department of Communications and the Information Technology and Computing Services (ITC).
The total budget for the Ministry of Communications in 2019-2020 is $74.6 million, comprising $17.3 million for operating expenditure, $52.5 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $4.8 million.
Ministry of Communications 2019-2020 Budget 7% 23% 70% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax 40 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Raising public awareness on services, assistance and opportunities available to the Fijian people through: Film and Video Materials: produces news summaries for release to promote broader coverage of Government activities, including the range of services and assistance that are available to Fijians, and promotes greater accessibility to national and international events ($150,000).
Digital Government Transformation: funds digitalFIJI, the Fijian Government’s digital transformation programme, to bring key Government services online, thereby easing access, cultivating inclusivity, and improving the quality of life of Fijians everywhere while keeping the national economy abreast in a rapidly-evolving and highly-competitive global landscape ($39.1 million).
Grant to Walesi: continues to improve Walesi’s robust terrestrial coverage through the use of establishing up to six additional low-powered repeater sites in those population centres with low terrestrial penetration.

This is expected to further improve terrestrial coverage to 97% of the population.

The number of Walesi app users now stand at 230,000, making it the most popular free app for Fijians.
Walesi will continue to develop the app to offer more entertainment and educational content to Fijians ($10.3 million).

$341,372 is allocated for the Operation, Maintenance and other Contingency Expenses for Savusavu Cable System, which went live last year.

This funding provided in this allocation will assist telecommunication companies to improve terrestrial linking within Vanua Levu, ensuring that network bottlenecks are eliminated and Fijians fully benefit from the increased speeds.
Continuing the liberalisation of the telecommunications market to improve access to affordable and reliable mobile services through: Operational Grant to Telecommunications Authority of Fiji: ensures proper monitoring and regulatory compliance in the ICT sector ($600,000).
Upgrade Government ICT infrastructure to gradually improve and expand e-government services through: 41 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Government Fibre Optic Network Project: makes critical upgrades to the Govnet network to provide a more stable online environment ($400,000).

Storage System Capacity: ensures that the Primary Data Centre has adequate storage capacity to meet present and future requirements ($250,000).
Data Centre Infrastructure Upgrade: aligns the Government Data Centre with updated technology, including switches, routers and fibre cabling ($400,000).

Government IT Redundancy: provides an IT Disaster Recovery Secondary site at the Government Data Centre that will allow ITC recover critical IT systems in the event of disaster ($2.0 million).
Bringing Schools Online: provides internet connection to a total of 50 schools scattered along rural interior and maritime areas, giving teachers and students the many benefits of internet connectivity and allowing schools to participate in future e-learning initiatives ($200,000).
Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) Implementation Project: funds the purchase hardware equipment, software and licensing, hosting of awareness programmes, compliance to certifications and standard accreditations and subscriptions to organisational membership.

CERT will be responsible to carry out assessments and incident handling functions and provide advice on measures to resolve issues and mitigate cyber threats and risks for the Government ($50,000).
Telecentre Operations: covers operational costs of existing telecentres and setup costs of six new telecentres, helping to bridge the digital divide in communities across Fiji ($400,000).

42 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Civil Service The role of the Ministry of Civil Service is to support the civil service through providing guidance for consistent implementation of the reform guidelines and capacity building to improve the overall capability of the civil service.
The Ministry successfully coordinated the organisation of the 52nd ADB Annual Meeting, cementing Fiji as the first-ever Pacific island nation to host the event, and single largest international gathering to ever take place in the country –– thus marking the beginning of a new, economically-stimulating era of largescale conference-hosting capabilities.
Through its events team, the Ministry will continue with the organising any major events for Fiji in future, and continue with its comprehensive civil service reforms to cultivate more efficient and productive workforce for Fiji’s public sector employees.

The budget for the Ministry of Civil Service in 2019-2020 is allocated $3.3 million, comprising an operational expenditure of $3.1 million and VAT of $0.2 million.
Ministry of Civil Service 2019-2020 Budget Operating Expenditure Value Added Tax 6% 94% 43 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Leadership Training / Cadetships for Top Graduates - facilitates core skills training for civil servants, enhancing management and leadership capacity among the ranks of the civil service and improving service delivery to the Fijian people.
As a new part of this initiative, rotating cadetships will be offered to top graduates, allowing these high-performing young people to obtain valuable and holistic experience throughout multiple Government ministries –– thereby gaining an inside look into how they operate and learning transferrable best practices from each –– before being appointed with a substantive post within a single ministry.
Once rolled out, this innovative cadetship programme will become one of the most dynamic and sought-after employment opportunities for new graduates in Fiji, and will serve as a training ground for the nation’s future leaders in civil service and Government ($240,000).
Concerns and complaints regarding health services can now be raised through a Customer Care Centre initiative developed through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services with the support of Ministry of Civil Service, facilitating an easy method of providing feedback by dialing the centre’s toll-free number, 157.

The Ministry plans to introduce a similar customer care center for the Ministry of Employment productivity and Industrial Relations in the 2019-2020 financial year ($283,200).
Civil Service Coordination Implementation Unit: continues Government’s reform exercise through 2019-2020 financial year so as to transform the Fijian civil service into a merit- based, efficient, and responsible employer –– and one that is responsive to the needs of the Fijian people it is bound to serve ($1.0 million).
44 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development is responsible for implementing development strategies that bring Fijians living in rural and maritime regions the same level of access to essential services and economic opportunity as anywhere else in the country.
The total allocation for the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development in 2019-2020 is $18.7 million, comprising $10.2 million for operating expenditure, $7.8 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.8 million.
Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development 2019-2020 Budget 4% 54% 42% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Major Highlights Upholding the right of every Fijian –– regardless of location or socioeconomic background –– to access transportation networks, essential services and reliable infrastructure through: District Advisory Councilor Allowance: funds the biannual meetings of the 17 district advisory councils and monthly allowances for 309 district advisory councilors to act on the concerns and needs of the communities they represent ($640,030).
45 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Government Road Shows in Remote Rural Locations: raises awareness and expands the reach of Government services, the private sector and NGOs directly to communities in remote rural locations ($200,000).

Community Access Roads, Footpaths and Footbridges: improves community access to the main transportation network, markets and essential services.
These access roads are not the rural roads used by public transport that are being upgraded by the Fiji Roads Authority; they are smaller access roads connecting rural communities, including farmers, to Fiji’s main centres ($2.0 million).

Grant to Self-Help: funds community projects that support socio-economic development in rural and maritime areas, namely water and sanitation projects, walkways, agriculture and fisheries projects and the provision of outboard and inboard engines ($1.5 million).
Construction of Government Stations and District Offices at Wainkoro, Kubulau, Korolevu, Namarai, Kavala and Vanuabalavu: improves access to Government services in rural areas in all Divisions ($3.5 million).

Project Preparatory Works: funds necessary preparatory works in each Division, including geo-tech surveys, topographic surveys, civil works and landscaping, for new Government Stations and District Officers quarters ($600,000).
46 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Republic of Fiji Military Forces The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), responsible for maintaining the security and defence of Fiji and the Fijian people, employs the latest technologies and defence strategies to address emerging security threats, and supports the international community to reduce conflict and forge peaceful solutions.
The Fijian Government supports RFMF in developing a capable military force by investing in training, modern equipment and facilities, and maintaining their critical role in international peacekeeping missions through the United Nations.

The RFMF also implements a number of projects and programmes in rural and maritime regions in Fiji.
As part of its contribution to the wellbeing of the Fijian people, the RFMF’s Engineering Corps carries out an extensive range of development projects across the country that improves the living conditions of ordinary Fijians.

The 2019-2020 Budget allocation for RFMF is strategically geared towards transforming RFMF through technical capacity and capability enhancements across all units, ensuring a more vibrant and modern Military Force.
In this regard, a total budget of $95.9 million is allocated for RFMF in 2019-2020, of which includes $90.8 million in operating expenditure, $3.2 million in capital expenditure and VAT of $2.0 million.
Republic of Fiji Military Forces 2019-2020 Budget 2% 3% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 95% Value Added Tax 47 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives $1.1 million is allocated for the recruitment of 40 personnel to man the RFNS Savenaca; a Guardian Patrol Boat (GPB) provided under the Australian Regional Maritime Security Program (RMSP) and RFNS Volasiga; which is donated by the Republic of Korea (ROK) under the Fiji Hydrographic Office (FHO) and Korean Hydrographic Oceanography Agency (KHOA) partnership in November, 2019.
This also includes the corresponding operational expenses, including allowances.

$100,000 is provided to cater for the ceremonial and hospitality expenses incurred while hosting visiting dignitaries from international partners and agencies that assist RFMF in enhancing its defence capacities.

$100,000 is allocated for the Dress Code Review for RFMF, carried out by a committee that will determine necessary changes to uniforms and other accessories.
$100,000 is allocated for the clearance of VAT Charges for items being procured by defense partners specifically for the Black Rock Project as the Department will be required to pay VAT and Customs clearance charges for items that are imported.

$15,000 is provided for the training cost under the Land Force Command (LFC) Unit for Signals Squadron, responsible for the management of the overall communication infrastructure at RFMF.
This training includes: Basic electronics course, basic wireman’s course, computer courses and basic networking courses.

Another $25,000 is allocated for the Unarmed Combat Training, which is essential in close combat and hostage situations.

Supporting the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations in conflict zones around the world.
Empowering and uplifting the Fijian people by carrying out an extensive range of development projects across the country: Tools and Equipment for RFMF Engineers: provides effective tools and equipment to the RFMF Engineers to implement rural and maritime development projects.

This project is being carried out in phases, and was boosted by tools received from Australia and New Zealand to carry out TC Winston rehabilitation works in 2017-2018 ($100,000).
Modernising RFMF facilities to better utilise technology and high-quality infrastructure to maintain 48 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights the safety and security of the Fijian people: Upgrading and Renovation of RFMF Armoury: upgrades the armoury to more securely store RFMF weapons at the Nadi Camp ($150,000).

Renovation/Upgrade of Existing RFMF Infrastructure: upgrades the Force Training Group infrastructure ($200,000) and Logistic Support Group complex ($200,000).
General Facility Upgrades: funds improvements at the Sukanaivalu and Lautoka camps ($300,000).

Upgrade/Renovation of RFMF Quarters and Barracks: upgrades the existing RFMF quarters and barracks.

There are a total of 95 quarters and barracks within RFMF, 74 of which require maintenance.

The funding in 2019-2020 will be used to undertake renovation and upgrading works for Australian Aid Quarters at QEB, Nabua and Strategic Head Quarters (SHQ) Barrack ($200,000).
High Frequency Communication Equipment: upgrades RFMF communication systems by replacing field sets and installing LAN/WAN at all RFMF camps ($400,000).

Purchase of Recompressor Diving Chamber: assists the Naval Division (RFNS Navy) to treat decompression sickness such as gas embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning, gas gangrene resulting from diving –– a vital measure to normalize body conditions and prevent related injury injuries and sicknesses.
This will be a first-of-its-kind diving chamber in Fiji, greatly enhancing the country’s ability to rapidly assist those afflicted by diving emergencies, effectively minimising long-term dangers and fostering a safer diving environment for Fijians and tourists alike ($367,453).
Purchase of Specialised Equipment for Military Police (MP): equips the MP personnel with necessary tools and equipment including medical supplies, tactical gear, armour and accessories that will facilitate proper conduct of operational tasking, quick deployment of personnel, and boost morale.

The MP supports the RFMF in areas of internal investigation, disciplinary cases, and security of the all camps from external threats on a day-to-day basis ($180,000).
Purchase of Kitchen Equipment: funds the upgrading and replacement of kitchen equipment at eight RFMF camps ($200,000).

49 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Peacekeeping Missions: supports the deployment of RFMF personnel to peacekeeping missions in Syria, Iraq and the Sinai.

There are currently 910 RFMF personnel serving in conflict zones ($75.7 million – allocated under Head 49).
50 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Fiji Police Force The Fiji Police Force is responsible for maintaining law and order in Fijian society by employing best practices in police work and using modern technologies and innovative strategies to prevent criminal activity.

The Force engages in a wide range of activities to maintain a well-trained and well-equipped workforce that is fully capable of handling the nation’s evolving criminal threats.
The Force will continue to harness collaboration and partnership with other Government ministries, relevant stakeholders and the community in order to promote national security and maintain the rule of law.

As outlined in the 5-Year and 20-Year National Development Plan, the Force will continue to ensure that the nation’s security is maintained and effective crime prevention measures are enforced.
Resources will be channeled towards restructure and reform programs, decentralisation of services for quick and effective response, institutional strengthening through respective Divisions, special drug operations, improving response times and investigative effectiveness by procuring specialised equipment, including communication, traffic and specialised equipment and forensic science tools.
The Force continues to actively enhance its operational capabilities to better serve Fiji’s many maritime communities.

To achieve the above, the Fiji Police Force in 2019-2020 Budget has been allocated $177.8 million, comprising $164.3 million for operating expenditure, $10.8 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $2.7 million.
Fiji Police Force 2019-2020 Budget 2% 6% 92% 51 Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid-in-Kind: $0.05m The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives $20.2 million is allocated to commence Phase 2 of the Restructure and Reform programme.

The activities planned for Phase 2 include the regularization of 995 Special Constables (SCs) into the Regular Force to adapt to new policing challenges.
Improving operational support for more effective criminal prosecutions through the provision of court witnesses fees, witness and suspect meals ($985,000).

$800,000 is provided to undertake special drug operations that arise based on any suspected cases of drug related activities in all divisions.

The Force has discovered new practices that are rapidly transforming the illicit drug trade.

Over the course of the past two years, this operation has uncovered over $200 million in various narcotics.
$500,000 is allocated to design and build a new transport pool mechanical warehouse and garage in Nasese.

Expanding the reach of law enforcement by constructing new police stations and upgrade quarters to improve service delivery and better protect citizens within respective jurisdictions through: Nakasi Police Station: funds the commencement of the construction of a new modernized Police Station in Nakasi.
The New Nakasi Station will house 300 officers on rotational basis to serve the heavily-populated Nakasi arena.

It will also include construction of staff quarters for officers ($2.0 million).

Nadi Police Station: funds the ongoing construction of a new Police Station in Nadi, which broke ground in March 2019 ($2.0 million).

Lautoka Police Station: funds the commencement of early construction works for the new Police Station in Lautoka ($2.0 million).
Nalawa Police Station: funds early civil works for the construction of a new Police Station in Nalawa.

The new construction in phases will be undertaken in coming years, with an additional roadside building constructed to provide public restroom facilities that will create a better traveling experience along the Kings and Queens Road ($700,000).

52 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Police Quarters Upgrade: funds the upgrade of Police staff quarters in Lautoka ($700,000).
Providing officers, posts and stations with proper equipment to effectively detect criminal activity and take swift action to uphold public safety through: Purchase of Police Boats and Outboard Engines: funds the purchase of police boats and outboard engines to provide maximum maritime security for port of entry, efficient and cost- effective border management services, timely and effective response to criminal activities and disasters in open waters.
The specific areas of operation includes: Tukavesi - Northern Division; Lakeba - Southern Division; and Levuka and Korolevu - Eastern Division ($727,178).
Supply and Installation of Video Recorded Interview Machines: funds the supply and installation of video-recorded interview machines to support the reform of police procedures and practices following the United Nations Convention against torture and other cruel inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and also improve overall efficiency of police interviews ($200,000).
Communication Equipment: funds the procurement of equipment that will improve response times and surveillance of public areas ($300,000).

Road Safety: funds the procurement of modern technology and equipment to make Fiji’s roads safer for commuters ($300,000).

Standard Equipment Procurement: ensures that officers are well-equipped to confront criminal threats by procuring basic policing tools ($400,000).
Specialised Operational Equipment Procurement: ensures that officers have the equipment necessary to conduct specialised operations to prevent criminal activity ($298,000).

IT Equipment Procurement: funds the procurement of IT equipment for police stations, posts and other facilities to improve the recording of police reports for investigations for use in trial, including complaints by victims and witness statements ($200,000).
Providing officers with technical expertise and specialised equipment to conduct thorough and effective investigations of crime scenes: 53 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Forensic Bio and DNA Lab: covers quality assurance systems for the Lab, upgrades the IT Database, allows the purchase of technical equipment, and funds training exercises ($300,000).
Analytical Forensic Chemistry Equipment: purchases laboratory equipment for toxicology analyses, trace evidence analyses and arson case sample analyses ($200,000).

The Fijian Government will continue to fund the deployment of 41 Fiji Police Force personnel to carry out their vital role in the nation’s worldwide peacekeeping operations, bringing real-world training and great pride to the Force ($1.8 million - under Head 49).
54 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts The Fijian Government upholds education as the most effective pathway to growing the Fijian economy, enriching Fijian society, and advancing the upward mobility of the Fijian people.

The Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts is responsible for building a knowledge-based society by ensuring that Fiji’s young people have equitable access to high quality education at all levels of the Fijian education system.
Over the past 11 years, Government’s consistent and targeted investment in the education of Fijian students has led to the historic achievement of universal primary education, and given a record number of Fijian children access to secondary and tertiary education.

To better serve Fijian teachers and students, the Ministry is currently undergoing an organisational restructure that will streamline its systems and strengthen its capacity to more effectively respond to the current needs of the sector.
Further, this ongoing structural modernisation will provide strategic oversight for mapping out the long-term development of Fiji’s education system, allowing the Ministry to adapt to the demands of rapid technological advances and globalisation.

This restructure will be complemented by a comprehensive review of Fiji’s national curriculum, aimed at ensuring educational content –– and its mode of delivery –– best serves students of all skill levels.
Within the Ministry, the Department of Heritage & Arts is charged with safeguarding Fiji’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

The Department is in the process of finalising a National Culture Policy, which will support social cohesion and promote national unity.

In addition, resources have been provided for the cultivation and conservation of various art forms.
$467.7 million is allocated to the Ministry of Education, Heritage & Arts, $115.6 million for Higher Education Institutions, $181.8 million for various scholarships schemes and loans administered by the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Board (TSLB), $35.0 million for rehabilitation and reconstruction of schools damaged by recent tropical cyclones, $1.7 million for agricultural and vocational training for rural communities and $850,300 as a grant to Frank Hilton Organisation.
55 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, HERITAGE AND ARTS 2019-2020 BUDGET 1.9% 0.4% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure 97.7% Value Added Tax Aid-in-Kind - $28.6M Initiatives in the 2019-2020 Budget: Increasing access to early childhood care and education (ECCE) to prepare young Fijian children for their transition into elementary school and to maximise their future well-being: Tuition Subsidy: a subsidy towards the tuition fees of students who enrol in registered ECCE centres ($2.8 million).
Construction of Facilities for ECCE Centres and Infant Schools: a programme to ensure ECCE centres and infant schools are equipped with the necessary facilities to support student learning ($300,000).

Improving access to high quality primary and secondary education through: $400,000 is allocated for Free Milk Programme to distribute 250ml of milk to Year 1 students on each school day.

This will cover for those Year 1 students in the rural and maritime areas.
The programme will be reviewed by the Ministry in the next financial year.

Fee Free Tuition Programme: funds the tuition of students from Year 1 to Year 13, ensuring the access and delivery of quality education to all students –– a critical building block to enhancing lifelong welfare and advancing national development ($63.7 million).

Transport Assistance Programme: benefits more than 105,000 eligible students in primary and secondary schools, as well as technical college.
This will reduce the burden on parents and encourage them to send children for studies ($20.0 million).

56 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Boarding School Food and Supplies: covers meal rations for boarding students in Government schools ($2.8 million).

Construction of WASH Facilities: ensures sanitation and hygiene is maintained in all schools in Fiji through adherence to the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Policy ($200,000).
Vocational Grants: ensures grant disbursement to secondary schools running vocational centers.

There are around 691 students currently enrolled in vocational centers ($387,000).

$50,000 is provided to implement e-books in schools.

This will include conversion of textbooks to electronic version that can be accessible by students on computers or handheld devices.

$30,000 is allocated for the School Farm Competition, which aims to engage youth to engage in agricultural activities.
This initiative will encourage students at all levels at primary and secondary schools to develop a positive attitude about food and agriculture, healthy living, the environment and entrepreneurialism.

Schools with the best farm will also be provided with a reward.

$15,000 is allocated for building confidence for Public Speaking for Year 12 and Year 13, offering hands-on learning that teach school students the basic principles of effective communication.
It will provide students the opportunity for personal and professional leadership, public speaking and development communication skills, forming a lasting impact on the individual’s personal life and career prospects.

improving confidence, through $20,000 is allocated for Climate Change Education and Awareness to build public knowledge on matters related to climate change, particularly among children and youth, who hold the power to usher in transformative climate-centric cultural shifts within society.
The allocation will also fund the creation of climate change publications and awareness materials for public consumption.

The rehabilitation and development of education-related infrastructure: 57 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Bau Central College: covers the construction of phase 3 of the project including classrooms, a computer lab, an ablution block, staff quarters, and other specialised rooms such as a science lab and industrial arts and home economics workshops ($2.5 million).
Cyclone Rehabilitation: to complete the rehabilitation and reconstruction of schools damaged by TC Winston, TC Keni, TC Josie and TC Gita, elevating them to heightened building standards in order to resist severe tropical cyclones in the future.

($35.0 million).

Water Tanks: distributes 5,200 litre capacity water tanks to primary and secondary schools throughout Fiji, ensuring that the nation’s schools each have at least one back- up water source.
The provision will assist schools in both rural and urban locations that are faced with water shortages and facilitate a healthier learning environment for the students by uplifting the schools’ hygiene levels ($300,000).

Boat and Outboard Engines: provides boats and outboard motor engines to schools with urgent needs to ensure the safety of students and teachers who need to cross bodies of water on their way to and from school ($200,000).
Upgrade and Maintenance of School Facilities: covers the upgrade and maintenance of existing school facilities for both primary and secondary schools including teachers’ quarters ($1.9 million).

Construction of New School Facilities: includes the construction of new school facilities such as classrooms, computers labs, and sanitation blocks, ensuring that students and teachers are not deprived of quality teaching and learning ($2.5 million).
FNU Capital Projects: covers the construction of campuses in various locations as part of Government’s initiative towards advancing higher education and establishing FNU as a world-class institution.

Works will include construction of Labasa campus; Nasinu campus in Valelevu; Veterinary Laboratory, Hospital and Instructional Livestock Shed in Koronivia; and Fiji Maritime Academy in Suva ($15.0 million).
Increasing the reach of special education programmes to benefit children with special needs: Grant to Special Schools: to support the delivery of programmes for special schools by ensuring that children with disabilities are entitled to better education.

The grant covers the recruitment of specialised teachers, procurement of teaching aids, lenses, hearing aids, prosthetics and other specialised equipment ($1.2 million).
Scholarship Scheme: provides scholarships for students with special needs to enrol in recognised tertiary institutions.

A total of 48 students are expected to benefit from this programme ($266,000).
Granting more of Fiji’s young people the opportunity to pursue affordable higher education 58 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights through: Tertiary Education Loans Scheme (TELS) - Tuition and Accommodation: continues Government provision of TELS support to ensure that funding is available to students who aspire to progress in higher education.

Students under the eligibility criteria will be considered for tertiary education, including in technical colleges ($138.0 million).
Funding for other scholarships will continue ($43.8 million).

Operating Grants to Higher Education Institutions: funds operational grants for Fiji’s higher education institutions which include FNU, USP, University of Fiji, CATD, Corpus Christi, Fulton College, Montfort Boys Town, Montfort Technical Institute, Sangam Institute of Technology, Vivekananda Technical Centre and the Technical College of Fiji ($100.6 million).
Rural Maritime Livelihood Training Programme: aims to bridge the gap of vocational training through provision of specialised skills training to rural communities in areas such as commercial floriculture, domestic electric wiring and installation, child and elderly care, culinary arts, and free-hand garment construction ($1.3 million).
Supporting the promotion and preservation of Fiji’s unique culture and heritage through: Upgrade of Fiji Museum: covers the maintenance works to upkeep the Fiji Museum facility and ensuring that cultural artefacts are properly displayed and well-preserved.

This will also contribute towards attracting tourists into the capital city.

Works will include refurbishment of both the building’s interior and exterior, upgrading of the administration block and electrical rewiring throughout ($200,000).
Rehabilitation of Levuka World Heritage Structures: covers for the consultancy and rehabilitation works for the restoration and strengthening of Levuka community centre complex and St Johns church, ensuring these World Heritage structures retain their historical integrity ($200,000).

Fiji National Gallery of Contemporary Arts: covers the cost of early civil works, consultancy and training services, which will commence upon engagement of the lead consultant and payment to the British Council.
Upon its completion, the Gallery will offer a high-level platform for local artists to promote their work, serve as community hub, and attract tourism to Suva ($3.0 million).

59 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Health and Medical Services Government is committed to protecting and improving the health of all Fijians, regardless of income or geographic location.
It aims to achieve this through a wide-reaching and holistic approach, from the provision of preventative, curative, and rehabilitative medical care and treatment, to the encouragement of healthy lifestyles, to the training and education of a healthy public.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is tasked with achieving Government’s vision of a more modern and affordable Fijian healthcare system.
The Ministry is actively improving and bolstering its internal capacity, alongside partnering with outside experts, to address the specific health needs of the Fijian population.

It is seeking out innovative ways to deliver high-quality medical services and health education that reaches every Fijian community, no matter how remote.
To meet today’s demand in health services, the Ministry is constructing, upgrading and refurbishing divisional and sub-divisional hospitals, health centres and nursing stations throughout Fiji.

Government is dedicated to filling these new and improved healthcare facilities, along with those that already exist, with modern, state-of-the-art technology and equipment and skilled medical professionals.
Improving the provision of medicinal products, strengthening the health workforce and improving the health information systems are other focus areas for the Ministry.

While Government is putting extensive resources behind upgrading the nation’s healthcare network, it remains dedicated to keeping the out-of-pocket cost of healthcare borne by ordinary Fijians to a bare minimum.

From womb to tomb, affordable healthcare is a fundamental and constitutionally-enshrined right of every Fijian.
The total budget for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in 2019-2020 is $349.8 million, comprising of $303.5 million for operating expenditure, $34.7 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $11.5 million.
60 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES 2019-2020 BUDGET 3% 10% 87% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid In Kind - $16.9M Initiatives in the 2019-2020 Budget Improving the administration and quality of health and medical services throughout Fiji: Doctors: funds doctors’ training, salaries and FNPF to ensure a productive, motivated health workforce wholly focused on patient rights and customer satisfaction.
There are 772 filled positions with another 175 planned to be filled this year, of which 110 are medical interns.

The administration of doctors’ personal emoluments are now transferred to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services ($68.5 million).

Community Health Workers: caters for the salary allowance for Community Health Workers currently based in Fijian villages and communities, along with operating expenses such as training and capacity building.
The initiative aims to improve and increase the general public’s access to health services ($2.5 million).

Expenses of Local and Overseas Medical Consultancy Services: enhances access for patients seeking overseas treatments, particularly for cancer and cardiac treatments that are not yet available in Fiji ($1.5 million).
Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Prevention and Control Program: strengthens the delivery of secondary prophylaxis, increases community awareness, defines the epidemiology and monitor the burden of disease within Fiji.

Allocated funding will also contribute to maintaining a highly skilled health workforce, trained in Acute Rheumatic Fever and RHD diagnosis and management ($150,000).
Charter of Aircraft: covers the hiring of aircraft to meet the increased demand for medical evacuation of high-risk patients, especially those residing in rural and maritime regions ($2.1 million).

61 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Outsourcing Services: covers the cost of outsourcing janitorial and security services for Fiji’s health facilities ($6.9 million).
Public Health Services: addresses the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and strengthens preventative/outreach programmes relating to NCDs, HIV/AIDs, family health, adolescent health, child health development, environmental health and mental health awareness ($6.4 million).
Consumables and Medicine: includes the purchase of items such as drugs and consumables, as well as the continuation of the free medicine programme, to assist Fijians with an annual income below $20,000 to access the medicines they need to maintain a healthy and productive life ($23.7 million).
Developing modern health facilities around the country to improve access to high quality health services: Extension of CWM Hospital Maternity Unit: funds ongoing construction on the significant extension of the existing CWM hospital maternity unit, which will vastly expand the Hospital’s capacity for Fijian mothers and babies in alignment with Government’s mission to improve medical care for women in Fiji ($4.0 million).
Upgrade and Maintenance of Urban Hospitals and Institutional Quarters: covers upgrade and maintenance costs at three divisional hospitals (Lautoka, Labasa and CWM) and two specialised hospitals (St. Giles and Twomey) ($1.2 million).

Construction of Navosa Sub-Divisional Hospital: upgrades the Keiyasi Health Centre into a Sub-Divisional Hospital to meet the demand for health services in light of increased population ($7.5 million).
Upgrade of Lautoka Hospital Operating Theatre & X-Ray Department: funds expert consultancy and works for peer review of the hospital’s operating theatre, the removal of existing asbestos, and the reconstruction of block Q to engineering standard ($4.4 million).

Minor Works: caters for minor upgrade and maintenance of health facilities to a useable standard ($2.0 million).
Equipping all health facilities with modern, state of the art technology and equipment to support the delivery of quality healthcare: Purchase of Equipment for Urban Hospitals: ensures hospitals have the necessary equipment to support efficient and effective delivery of health services.
Equipment includes medical beds, incinerators, trolleys, boilers, furniture and fittings for the new health facilities ($1.7 million) Purchase of Equipment for Sub-Divisional Hospitals, Health Centres and Nursing Stations: 62 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights includes purchase of medical beds, generators, incinerators, furniture and fittings for the new health facilities ($1.6 million).
Purchase of Dental Equipment for Urban Hospitals and Sub-Divisional Hospitals: ensures that health facilities have the appropriate dental equipment to efficiently and effectively provide dental services to all Fijians.

Procurement is being undertaken to replace unserviceable dental equipment, purchase new equipment for dental laboratories to assist in making dental prostheses, and purchase spare parts and accessories ($687,531).
Purchase of Biomedical Equipment for Urban and Sub-Divisional hospitals: ensures that health facilities have the appropriate biomedical and anaesthetic equipment to efficiently and effectively provide health services to all Fijians ($5.5 million).
63 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Housing and Community Development A thriving Fijian economy and an increased demand for skilled labour have incentivised more Fijians to flock to urban centres to seek employment and raise their families.

In effect, this rapid urban growth has increased the demand for quality and reasonable housing at affordable prices.
However, the internal migration has put increasing pressure on urban centres, their infrastructure, and their surrounding environment –– challenges that are being addressed by Government through targeted investment and thoughtful development planning.

The Ministry of Housing and Community Development is committed to progressively achieving accessible and adequate housing and to helping more Fijian families own homes.
The Ministry will give more focus to organizational strengthening in 2019-2020, while continuing to deliver results on new and existing development programmes.

The establishment of the Ministry’s new office space and additional staffing will further improve the quality and delivery of its services, better meeting the housing needs of the Fijian people.
The Ministry will be working closely with the Reserve Bank of Fiji and other financial institutions to give homeowners the opportunity to finance the purchase or construction of new homes at discounted interest rates.

To expeditiously increase the supply of affordable housing in Fiji, the Ministry will also engage with all stakeholders, including construction companies, with an ambition to reduce the construction costs of homes.
The Ministry will also work with development partners, including those in the private sector, to introduce innovative new strategies employed in other parts of the world to successfully meet increasing demands for home ownership.

The Ministry will also continue the important work around the country to provide security of tenure to Fijians residing in informal settlements, bringing the stability and peace of mind of long-term land ownership to more Fijian families.
Social housing assistance for rural and maritime regions will continue on a cost sharing basis, contributing to the ongoing improvement of housing standards in these areas.

The total budget for the Ministry of Housing and Community Development is $17.2 million in 2019- 2020, comprising $3.5 million for operating expenditure, $13.5 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.2 million.
64 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 2019-2020 BUDGET 2% 20% 78% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid In Kind - $5.3M Initiatives in the 2019-2020 Budget: Assisting informal settlements by drafting proper tenancy agreements and improving basic infrastructure through: Formalisation of Informal Settlements: involves the upgrading and development of informal settlements on State and iTaukei land by providing basic infrastructure and security of tenure.
Works expected to be completed include Waidamudamu (Naitasiri) and Caubati (Nasinu).

Areas for upgrade include Wakanisila, Field 4, Sakoca, Tavela, Tore and Qauia.

More than 1,000 families are expected to benefit from this programme in 2019 – 2020 ($2.0 million).

Regularisation of Informal Settlements: informal settlements on State land, giving Fijians living in these areas a new sense of security and dignity.
This includes both squatter settlements located on vacant State land and those who are living in illegal subdivisions on State land ($50,000).

regularisation of involves the Assisting People Living with Disabilities (PLWD): $500,000 is allocated for making Fijian buildings more inclusive and comfortable for PLWD.

This initiative is implemented by Habitat for Humanity with funding allocated to retrofit Fijian homes and community centres to meet the needs of PLWD.
This funding will cover a variety of structural upgrades, including the construction of ramps, railings, PLWD-friendly footpaths around the home, accessible washroom and toilet facilities, and the alteration of 65 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights community centre entrances to be PLWD-accessible –– a change that will truly open doors to the entire Fijian community.
Increasing the market supply of low-cost housing units through: PRB Subsidy: subsidises the rental obligations of PRB tenants in all four divisions ($1.6 million).

Grant to HART: fund re-construction, renovation and general maintenance of the existing 847 homes under the programme ($500,000).

Koroipita Model Town: extends the Koroipita Model Town, a highly-engineered and fully- serviced subdivision, to provide cyclone-proof housing for the disabled and low-income families.
The initiative will be implemented by Model Towns Charitable Trust, and will cover the acquisition of an additional 15 acres of land to be developed as a fully serviced subdivision for more than 100 new homes.

The model town also runs a community development programme covering education support, self-sufficiency in food production and income generating projects ($2.0 million).
The restructure of the First Home Purchase programme, which has already assisted more than 300 Fijians in 2018-2019 to purchase or construct their homes: $2.0 million is allocated for eligible households with a combined annual income below $50,000 to receive a grant of $10,000 if they buy a house or $15,000 if they build a house; and $2.0 million is allocated for eligible households with a combined annual income between $50,001 to $100,000 to receive a grant of $5,000 if they buy a house or $15,000 if they build a house.
Boosting home ownership for the Fijian people: Debt Relief Scheme: settles housing loans for clients held by the Housing Authority (HA) who have paid more than the principal amount, those who have retired or those who can prove genuine financial difficulty based on low-income or medical grounds.

The Government and HA repays the outstanding debt on a 60:40 basis ($400,000).
First Land Purchase Programme: supports home ownership by subsidising the cost of lots developed by HA and FNPF for Fijians with a combined family income less than $50,000 that do not have sufficient funds to purchase the developed lot to construct a house ($1.5 million).
Interest Subsidy for Home Loans: minimises interest payments for eligible First Home Buyers –– those with a combined annual income of less than $50,000 that have financed their home loan through Concessional Finance Facility under the Reserve Bank of Fiji 66 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights ($250,000 ).

Government Surveying: outsources survey of land services (through tender) for the survey of un-surveyed lands.
The objective is to empower Fijians who dwell on these lands with formal documentation on the land boundary and a proper title ($750,000).

Support to ordinary Fijians during times of crisis through: Social Housing Assistance: aids the construction of homes in rural and maritime areas on a cost-sharing basis (1/3 cash or in-kind contribution by applicants).
The funds cover the rebuilding and repair of homes that are destroyed in disasters or fires, and also the construction of new homes for families under the Family Assistance Scheme, as referred by the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation ($1.0 million).

Housing Assistance to Fire Victims: assists fire victims with rebuilding their homes through a grant of $5,000.
The assistance is available to Fijians with a household income below $50,000 and who have proper leases, but lack insurance ($250,000).
Revitalising Informal Settlements and Environments (RISE): co-funded by the New Zealand Government and Monash University, works at the intersection of health, environment, water and sanitation in urban informal settlements to demonstrate that a nature-based approach to revitalising informal settlements can deliver sustainable, cost- effective health and environmental improvements.
RISE Fiji is to be implemented in 12 informal settlements in the Greater Suva Area, including: Wainivokai, Matata, Wainidinu, Nauluvatu, Komave, Waliea-Raiwaqa, Muanivatu, Kinoya, Maravu, Newtown, Muanikoso, and Lobau.
The funding will cover the design and construction of household- level sanitation facilities and climate resilience improvements such as drainage, access ways, flood walls and mangrove protection to reduce informal encroachment; making towns and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable ($300,000).
67 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation The Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation oversees national policies and programmes that work to ensure that Fiji’s most vulnerable groups are cared for and included in our ongoing national prosperity.

The Ministry’s work provides a social safety net that empowers disadvantaged Fijians, creating a more level playing field in Fijian society.
It aims to break down barriers of gender, disability, age, and economic standing, allowing all Fijians to fully participate in society and benefit from the nation’s growing prosperity.

Within the Ministry, the Department of Social Welfare administers Fiji’s well-reformed social welfare programmes, which include the Poverty Benefit Scheme, the Child Protection Allowance, the Food Voucher Programme, the Social Pension Scheme and Bus Fare for the elderly and Fijians living with a disability.
The Department is focused on ensuring all Government assistance is well-targeted and administered in a transparent and accountable manner.

It is equally committed to ensuring that these programmes do not create a culture of dependency, focusing efforts and energy on graduating Fijian families and individuals from “welfare to workfare”.
Through the Department of Women, the Ministry is responsible for providing Fijian women and girls, particularly those in rural communities, with the skills and education they need to participate as equal members in society.

The Ministry also works to increase women’s participation in decision-making, eliminate violence against women, improve women’s access to basic services, and address women’s issues in new legislation.
The Department works with other Ministries to ensure that gender perspectives are addressed in all Government policies and initiatives and to promote gender equality.

68 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The total budget for the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation in 2019-2020 is $127.7 million, comprising $124.8 million for operating expenditure, $2.3 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.7 million.
MINISTRY OF WOMEN, CHILDREN AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION 2019-2020 BUDGET 0.5% 1.8% 97.7% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid In Kind - $6.3M Initiatives in the 2019-2020 Budget $25,000 is allocated for the review of the social protection programme processes and systems.

Government has recognised the critical role that social protection can play in reducing poverty, improving living standards and providing a better future for the country.
The review is essential for efficient operation and administration of the programmes and address areas of leakages and gaps within its operations.

$25,000 is allocated for inter-agency consultation for day care centers setup.

This was derived from an IFC study that assessed the childcare needs of workers across Fiji’s private and public sectors and to determine the extent to which childcare responsibilities impact their ability to stay employed, come to work regularly, and work to their full potential.
Part of the preliminary works will look into the recommendations from this study on how Fijian businesses and Government can better support the needs of working parents.

$50,300 is allocated for the procurement of GIS (geographic information system) equipment.

This is intended to capture real-time data in various poverty alleviation programmes, allowing for more efficient and accurate analysis of the impact of Ministry initiatives.

$10,000 is allocated for the establishment of a National Gender Database.
The system will 69 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights enable the Ministry to collate gender data from other line ministries that will be used for gender analysis and planning, allowing for more efficient resource allocation and service delivery.
Providing a social safety net to assist the vulnerable in society: Poverty Benefit Scheme: targets households living below the Basic Needs Poverty Line by providing them with a monthly allowance of $30 - $127 and a food voucher of $50 to sustain themselves ($36.0 million).

Social Pension Scheme: provides $100 monthly allowance to Fijians who are 65 years of age and older who have no form of income and have never been beneficiaries of a superannuation scheme ($46.0 million).
Child Protection Allowance: ensures that Fiji’s underprivileged children are provided with proper care and protection.

This programme is specifically targeted at single mothers, deserted spouses, widows, prisoner dependents, foster parents/guardians and children under the care of the State.

($8.0 million).

Food Voucher Programme for Rural Pregnant Mothers: improves maternal health and reduces infant mortality by supporting expecting mothers in rural areas.
The allocation will cater for a monthly food voucher of $50 ($900,000).

Child Protection Programme: involves awareness programmes and the implementation of the recommendations from the committee on Convention on the Rights of the Child ($500,000).

Bus Fare Assistance: provides fare assistance to Fijians 60 years of age and older and persons living with disabilities.

The programme is fully funded by Government and a monthly top-up of $40.00 is provided to each recipient every month.
More than 50,000 recipients are using this assistance ($10.0 million).

Community Based Corrections Programme: fosters community-based sentencing options, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.

This Act requires the supervision of offenders when they are sentenced to community-based work.

The allocation caters for the appointment of staff and volunteer supervisors, training and enumeration of community volunteer supervisors ($300,000).
National Council of Older Persons: supports the operation of the National Council of Older Persons to advocate the interests of senior citizens, particularly through the implementation of the Fiji National Aging Policy ($400,000).

Fiji National Council for Disabled Person’s (FNCDP): advocates the interests of persons living with disabilities through funding of the FNCDP, the national coordinating body for disability development initiatives in Fiji ($500,000).
70 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Grants to Disabled Peoples Organisation: supports various activities undertaken by disability organisations that complement the work of Government and the FNCDP.

Organisations can submit proposals to the Ministry to access grant funding ($400,000).

Capital Grants to Voluntary Organisations: contributes to social justice and poverty alleviation by supporting NGOs that complement the work of Government.
This is an effective way for the Ministry to capitalise on the expertise and capacity of NGOs in advancing its critical missions, specifically the care and protection of children and of the disadvantaged in society ($200,000).

Assistance to Fire Victims: provides immediate relief to Fijians who have lost their homes to fire and do not have insurance to cover the damage.

Victims can seek assistance at any Social Welfare Office in the country ($100,000).
Seeking gender equality and the empowerment of women: Women’s Plan of Action: establishes a taskforce that seeks to review the Women’s Plan of Action, conduct activities under its five thematic areas, and establish a new thematic area, ‘Gender and Climate Change’.

The new thematic area will focus on programmes that will address gender issues during natural disasters, and spearhead women’s activities for promoting resilience, mitigation and adaptation ($900,000).
NGO Grants: provides grants to various non-government organizations to advance the interests of women and children ($150,000).

Furthermore, $450,000 is allocated to 3 women institutions that complement the work of Government to advance gender equality and women empowerment.

Fiji National Women’s Expo: supports women’s economic empowerment through the hosting of the National Women’s Expo.
The Expo provides a platform for rural women to sell their produce and gain access to potential urban markets ($500,000).

Domestic Violence Helpline: funds the operations at the 24-hour toll-free Domestic Violence Helpline, which provides a free reporting and referral platform for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault ($200,000).
Seeking improved facilities to ensure a healthy and safe environment for all: Upgrading of State Homes for Older Persons: includes renovations at all three of Fiji’s State Homes for Older Persons, namely, the Babasiga Home (Labasa), Golden Age Home (Lautoka) and Samabula Senior Citizens Home (Suva).

The 2019-2020 budget will cater for the commencement of upgrading works at the Babasiga Home in Labasa ($1.0 million).
Fiji Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre: upgrades the Centre, located at 10 Lakeba Street, Samabula, providing an environment that better enables the development and rehabilitation 71 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights of juveniles committed into the care and custody of the State ($750,000).

Fiji “Barefoot College”: to construct a vocational college targeted at rural-based women in a joint initiative between Government and Barefoot College International.
Through this programme, Fijian women will undergo on-the-job training in specific technical skills required for sustainable rural development, fostering their independence and uplifting their communities ($750,000).

Western Disability Centre: serves the needs of persons living with disability in the Western Division by providing specialised services and support ($850,000).
72 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Youth and Sports The Ministry of Youth and Sports is assigned with both promoting Fiji’s young people and fostering the nation’s athletic potential –– two distinct, yet overlapping, tasks.

Government recognises this inextricable link, rooted in the formative role that sports play in shaping Fijian youth, instilling them with values and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.
Given Fiji’s young population, the Ministry carries the responsibility of harnessing and channelling the untapped raw potential of Fiji’s young people and releasing them into productive areas of society where they can make a difference.

This involves providing training to develop both soft and hard skills, encouraging networking, mentoring, providing opportunities to build leadership skills through local level implementation, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.
By doing so, Government is enabling Fiji’s next generation of leaders –– an investment of developing the youth of today to improve Fijian communities of the future.

The Ministry offers training to youths through five Youth Training Centres around the country, along with mobile training in rural and urban areas.
The training is run in close coordination with other ministries, particularly the Ministries of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forests, and iTaukei Affairs, and is aimed at empowering young people to be productive members of the community and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to venture into specific income-earning opportunities.
The Ministry also drives sporting development in Fiji to encourage healthy lifestyle choices among Fijians of all ages, in addition to maintaining and building upon Fiji’s position as the Pacific hub for athletic competition.

The Ministry’s work falls within the framework of a number of existing policies that govern national sporting development.
In line with Government’s goals of both creating a healthier society and bolstering the nation’s sports tourism capabilities, the Ministry’s Sports Development Unit is charged with the advancement of Fijian athletic facilities.

The Ministry will continue to invest in building and upgrading Fiji’s sporting infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.

This includes upgrading rural sports fields in various schools and rural sports complexes in identified regional hubs.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has been allocated a budget of $19.9 million for 2019-2020, of which $18.3 million is for operating expenditure, $1.3 million is for capital expenditure.

The difference of $0.3 million accounts for VAT.


73 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights MINISTRY OF YOUTH AND SPORTS 2019-2020 BUDGET 2% 6% 92% Operating Expenditure Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid In Kind - NIL Initiatives in the 2019-2020 Budget: Supporting community-based capacity building initiatives for youth through: Review of Fiji National Youth Band: improves accreditation and earning potential of the programme.
Plans are in place for the Youth Training Centre in Valelevu to operate independently and be a choice for music, culture and arts training for Fiji and the region ($20,000).

Review and re-package youth development programmes to reduce overlap in youth programmes, centralise functions and maximise efficiency.

Ministry of Youth and Sports will work with other ministries, such as Agriculture, Ministry of Women, and MoITT to coordinate this whole-of-government approach ($25,000).
Youth Capacity Building and Training Programme: encourages young Fijians to become productive members of society by funding training and supporting income generating projects, such as Seeds of Success, Empowerment Training, Youth Feed the Nations and Multi Skills/Mobile Skills training programmes ($1.0 million).

Youth and Sports Grant: encourages volunteerism and community work among Fijian youth, this programme is implemented in partnership with non-governmental youth organisations ($100,000).
74 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Upgrading of Youth Training Centres: covers improvement at Fiji’s Youth Training Centres namely in - Naleba (Macuata) and Naqere (Savusavu).

The upgrades will increase the capacity of the facilities to undertake training ($370,273).

Promoting Youth Leadership: National Youth Policy: reviews the National Youth Policy to ensure it can be effective in addressing emerging challenges faced by Fiji’s young people ($30,000).
Duke of Edinburgh International continues the Awards: Programme to develop life skills, promote physical activity and encourage community service among those Fijians from 14 to 24 years of age ($60,000).

Youth Workers – Pilot Project: engages district youth workers who will work directly with Fijian communities to assess areas for youth development through a grassroots approach ($240,000).
Promoting the development of sports at all levels through: Fiji National Sports Commission: actively advances the development of Fijian Sports at all levels, from beginner to elite level by supporting national sporting bodies ($970,465).

Engagement of International Coaches: supports the engagement of international coaches to foster the development and participation of Fijian athletes at the international level.
Through this initiative, Fiji’s national athletes are exposed to higher levels of professional coaching, tapping their potential to thrive in the international spotlight and bringing pride and joy to Fijians at home ($1.65 million).

Overseas Sports Tournaments: supports the participation of national teams in international tournaments.
Some of the key events include the 2019 Rugby World Cup; HSBC 7’s series; 2020 Paralympics qualification; Football Under-16 World Cup qualification; 2020 World Bowl Championship and preparation for the 2020 Olympics ($4.1 million).
Hosting International Tournaments: covers Fiji’s hosting responsibilities for a number international tournaments in the upcoming financial year, including: OFC Under-23 Championship (Fiji Football); 2019 International Series (Netball Fiji); 2019 Oceania Surfing Games; and International Rugby Matches (Fiji Rugby Union) ($3.1 million).
75 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Sevens 2019 Oceania Men’s and Women’s Rugby Tournament: covers costs of this international tournament, for which Fiji will play host.

The event will also be the qualifier for 2019/2020 Sevens series for both the men’s and women’s teams ($1.5 million).

o Short-Term Experts: caters for the engagement and of international experts to assist with the development of minor sports in the country ($150,000).
local o Sports Outreach Programme: sports a week-long funds development programme in rural communities to hone basic skills in a range of sports and identify clear career pathways for young people ($200,000).

Sports Scholarships: supports the development of elite athletes by providing sports scholarships for promising athletes ($150,000).

Fiji Boxing Commission: supports the operations of the Fiji Boxing Commission, allowing it to continue its mission to revive the sport of boxing in Fiji ($50,000).
Sports Grants for Persons Living with Disabilities: promotes social inclusion of Fijians of all physical abilities in national sports activities, in line with Government’s commitment to those PLwD ($100,000).

Expanding access to sporting infrastructure for the Fijian people to encourage healthier living: Rural Sports Field: develops sporting fields in rural schools to provide more opportunities to develop rural sporting talents ($400,000).
Rural Sports Complex: funds the construction of the rural sporting complexes in Kadavu, in line with Government’s long-term plan to establish modern sporting facilities around the country, thereby providing athletes all throughout Fiji with the opportunity to further develop their skills in a wide range of sports ($500,000).
76 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Schemes In line with Government’s longstanding commitment to Fijian students and its aggressive investment to improve access to high quality education, continued funding assistance will be available to students who aspire to higher education in the 2019-2020 Budget.
This significant investment in higher education seeks to boost the competitiveness of the Fijian workforce over the medium - to long-term by giving Fiji’s young people greater opportunity to pursue graduate studies in growing industries.

It aims to provide Fiji’s young people the chance to better their lives through education, without being limited by economic standing, gender, age or disability.
Funding will be channelled through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Board (TSLB) to fund scholarships and loans, including the Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS), National Toppers Scheme (NTS), Existing Scholarship, Overseas Scholarship Programme, Scholarship Scheme for Special Needs Students, Civil Service Scholarship and Post Graduate Scholarship programmes.
A total of $181.8 million is allocated in the 2019-2020 Budget to fund the various scholarships and loans administered by the TSLB, aiding more than 25,000 Fijian students.

Various policy changes were introduced in previous years that have opened new opportunities for Fijian students to meet their higher education needs.

The number of awards for NTS scheme increased for priority areas that are not currently offered by a local institution.
The Civil Service Scholarship Scheme supports the professional development of civil servants to pursue a postgraduate diploma or master’s degree abroad and in-service teachers to upgrade their qualifications, thus raising the level of service delivery.

The Post Graduate Scholarship Scheme allows candidates to upgrade their qualification to master’s degree or pursue a doctorate degree.
Further, recipients who successfully completed their certificate and diploma programmes are encouraged to upgrade their qualifications up to their first bachelor’s degree.

Policy Adjustments National Toppers Scheme – adjusts the eligibility criteria to better incentivise personal responsibility, restricting recipients only to students who complete Year 13 in Fiji.
Foundation students will only qualify for TELS assistance through the existing criteria (the only exemption will be granted to children of Fijian diplomats based overseas).

The applicant must be an ordinarily resident in Fiji for at least three years before the award commencement date.

Recipients must also provide two suitable guarantors for the purpose of signing the bond agreement.
Pacific TAFE programs – continues TSLB funding for Pacific TAFE (Technical and Further 77 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Education) for programs that attract sufficient credit transfers for the Bachelor’s Degree, which at the moment is limited to a diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Currently, most of the programs offered by Pacific TAFE do not attract any credit transfers and are duplicated courses that are offered by other higher education institutions.
Study Where You Live (Zoning): supports all the new tertiary education students who will qualify to receive funding under the TELS-Accommodation Support Scheme by enrolling at campuses within their locality.

While this initiative will allow students to be able to access all necessary campus buildings, it will also provide parents with the flexibility of keeping students home for their studies.

Students enrolling at the localised campuses will be eligible for bus fare and incidental allowance only.
The accommodation rental and meal allowance will be provided for on-campus students only.

However, if a student still prefers to move to the main campus regardless of the program being offered in their locality, the allowance eligibility will be restricted to bus fare and incidental only.

Repeats Restrictions: TSLB will only pay for one repeat unit per year.

Previously, all failed units were funded by TSLB, leading to an unfortunate culture of apathy and waste that will be curbed by this adjustment.
Initiatives in the 2019-2020 Budget TELS: covers the tuition and accommodation allowance for the existing and continuing students for higher level studies at any higher education institutions in Fiji, including in technical colleges with the eligibility threshold of combined annual family income of $50,000.

Allowance of $30/ week bus fare will continue depending on the distance of travel from institution.

Around 25,000 students are currently the recipients of the TELS programme ($138.0 million).
National Toppers Scholarship Scheme (NTS): offers scholarships for students graduating from high school in Year 13 to pursue their studies in priority areas.

The scheme covers local scholarships as well as overseas awards for programmes that are not currently offered by a local institution.

A total of 3,250 students will benefit from both schemes in the next financial year ($41.0 million).
Other Existing Scholarships: funds students that are under old scholarship schemes, namely the Fijian Affairs Board, Multi-Ethnic Affairs, and Public Service Commission that were created prior to the TELS and Toppers Scholarship.

70 students are currently assisted under this scholarship, of which 50 are expected to graduate by end of this financial year ($455,640).
Other Overseas Scholarship Support Scheme: covers supplementary allowances such as travel costs, travel insurance, visa fees, air fares and excess baggage to Fijian students studying overseas on donor-funded and bilateral scholarships.

Through this scheme, students receive an allowance of USD$200 per month.

90 students are currently assisted under this scholarship programme ($476,222).
78 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Scholarship Scheme for Special Needs Students: supports students with special needs who enrol in higher education institutions.

It will continue to provide recipients with allowance equivalent to those on NTS at $6800 per annum or $13,300 per student.

28 students are currently assisted under the programme with 20 new intakes anticipated for the new financial year ($266,000).
Civil Service Scholarship Scheme: supports the professional development of civil servants thereby raising the level of service delivery.

The scheme funds 50 Local Awards for teachers currently in service to upgrade their qualification to a bachelor’s degree or a post graduate degree and 10 Overseas Awards for civil servants to pursue a postgraduate diploma or master’s degree in areas of need within the civil service.

60 new intakes are forecasted for the next financial year ($1.1 million).
Post-Graduate Scholarship - Local Awards: offers 50 awards each year for postgraduate study locally at a registered higher education institution.

The scholarships are restricted to priority areas which includes Teacher Training, Tourism and Agriculture, and Fisheries & Forestry.

The scheme funds 40 awards for candidates to upgrade to master’s degree and 10 awards to pursue a doctorate degree.

30 places will be reserved for civil servants ($500,000).
TELS Accelerated Repayment Incentives: assists tertiary graduates to settle the balance of their loans at a much faster rate.

The repayment is determined based on the student’s total amount of debt and discount applicable after their first day of employment.

Since the introduction of the incentive, a total of 187 students have settled their loan.
79 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Agriculture Agriculture is an important facet of the Fijian economy, accounting for around 9.5% of Fiji’s total GDP.

Further, its impact on our society is immeasurable; the sector sustains Fijians’ wellbeing, fuels livelihoods in rural areas of the country and puts food on the table of families throughout Fiji.
The Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for providing support to Fijian farmers (with sugarcane farmers supported separately by the Ministry of Sugar Industry), and for helping them adapt to changing markets and climate change.

The Ministry’s approach from administering technical crop and livestock extension services, to conducting new research to develop innovative solutions to the challenges faced by Fiji’s agriculture sector –– both of which will be an emphasis in the 2019-2020 fiscal year.
is wide-reaching, Government’s agriculture policy seeks to boost Fiji’s food security by cultivating a domestic market with sufficient crops and livestock to affordably feed the population.

By relying less on foreign agricultural imports, Fijian families will be at less risk of being affected by dramatic swings in a wide variety of global food prices, from meat products to vegetables.

At the same time, Government is working to increase international demand for Fijian-grown products.
The total budget for the Ministry of Agriculture in 2019-2020 is $78.7 million, comprising $35.0 million for operating expenditure, $40.6 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $3.1 million.
MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE 2019-2020 BUDGET 4% 44% 52% 80 Operating Capital Value Added Tax Aid in Kind - $9.7m The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The Ministry operates through five different divisions that oversee the various allocations assigned in a fiscal year: Policy Administration, Crop Extension, Crop Research, Livestock Extension, Livestock Research and Agriculture Land Use.
Major Initiatives: 2020 National Agriculture Census: fully enumerates rural and peri-urban farming areas, giving the Ministry an up-to-date, comprehensive data set that allows for better service delivery to Fijian farmers throughout the country ($4.5 million).

Policy and Administration: Committee on Better Utilisation of Land (CBUL): supports work on the renewal of expiring agricultural leases and improves access to land for productive purposes ($6.9 million).
Agriculture Marketing Authority (AMA) Capital Grant: delivers services to farmers that focus on the provision of a stable market and the procurement of crops such as dalo, yaqona, yams and coconut, and marine products such as fish and seaweed, at the farm gate ($5.6 million).

The Agricultural Partnership Project: ensures that small-scale producers are engaged in sustainable farming and business partnerships in remote areas, particularly for Fijians in highland communities ($1.0 million).
Construction of Rural Office and Quarters: funds maintenance and reconstruction works on damaged office complex and quarters ($1.2 million).

Crop Extension Services: Agriculture Extension Services – Crops: improves awareness of the Ministry’s services for farmers and ensures more effective programmes for supporting crop commodities ($800,000).
Farm Mechanisation: supports the adoption of mechanisation in agriculture through the provision of machineries such as tractors, diggers and excavators to farmers at affordable rates ($900,000).

81 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Agro Input Subsidy: ensures that farmers have access to affordable agro inputs and lower production costs at the farm level ($400,000).
Export Promotion Programme: strengthens commercial agriculture development through continued support for crops that have the potential to do well in the export market ($700,000).

Food Security Programme: provides continued support for selected locally produced fruits and vegetables for food security purposes, with a reducing broader aim of imports and creating livelihood opportunities for communities rural ($800,000).
o Rural and Outer Island Agricultural Development Programme: supports the expansion of crop and livestock agribusiness in remote rural areas and outer islands ($900,000).

Support for Revitalisation of Key Crop Commodities: covers the support to increase cultivation of rice ($600,000), ginger ($600,000), coconut ($450,000), cocoa ($400,000), vanilla ($140,000), dalo ($300,000), yaqona ($300,000) and potatoes ($100,000) and access to seedlings and planting materials ($600,000).
Land Clearing: supports the expansion of production areas through the clearing of trees and vegetation within the proximity of existing farming areas.

Government will provide machinery such as diggers, excavators and tractors to undertake land clearance, drainage works and land preparations ($900,000).
Flatland Development: funds the de-silting of drains, alignment of drains and installation of flap gates in the Rewa delta, Tailevu South, Muaniweni, Baulevu and Soloira flats to 82 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights expand production areas for farmers ($400,000).
Farm Access Roads: supports the upgrading of existing farm access roads to facilitate the transportation of inputs to farms and agricultural produce to market, and link agricultural production areas to national highways and other roads ($800,000).
Sigatoka Valley Farming Programme: carries out infrastructure upgrading on irrigation and drainage systems within Fiji’s salad bowl (Sigatoka) and surrounding areas to support production of selected root crops, fruits and vegetable crops, especially those under Bilateral Quarantine Agreement (BQA) ($190,000).
Nadarivatu Development Programme: funds infrastructure development, including drainage system improvement and the establishment of a cool storage unit to support expansion of crop production and market access in the interior of Savatu, Nadrau and Nabobuco in Nadarivatu ($250,000).
Saivou Valley Agriculture Development Programme: carries out infrastructure development such as the improvement of the irrigation system, de-silting of drains, establishment of market collection centre and cool storage to support production and market access in the interior of Nakorotubu, Nalawa, Saivou and Rakiraki in Ra ($250,000).
Rotuma Island Development Project: distributes planning materials and establishes nurseries to support food security and commercial agriculture development on the Island of Rotuma ($90,000).

Crop Research: Agriculture Research Services - Root Crops: conducts research on root crops for better and resilient varieties that can support food and income security ($350,000).
Agriculture Research Services - Tree Crops: conducts research on tree crops at the Taveuni Research and Development Centre, Wainigata Research Station and Naduruloulou Research Station ($350,000).

Agriculture Research Services – Horticulture: conducts horticulture research to evaluate assorted fruits, pulses, maize and vegetables in order to identify the best tree crop variety for Fiji ($350,000).
83 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Infrastructure Improvement for Research Stations: supports improvements to existing buildings and infrastructure at various research stations ($190,000).

Construction of Agronomy Building – Phase 1: covers the costs of construction for a new agronomy lab that will have modern facilities for plant breeding and other required field testing ($250,000).
Purchase of Equipment – Agricultural Chemistry Lab: provides continued support for annual procurement of testing equipment and chemicals ($200,000).

Purchase of Equipment – Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory: provides continued support for annual procurement of testing equipment and chemicals ($150,000).

Upgrade of Plant Tissue Culture Lab: provides support for the planned accreditation of the Plant Tissue Culture Lab at Koronivia Research Station ($160,000).
Livestock Extension: Agriculture Extension Services – Livestock: improves awareness of Ministry’s services for farmers and ensures more effective programmes supporting livestock commodities ($550,000).

The programme supports the extension services of goats ($200,000), pigs ($180,000), sheep ($200,000), beef ($200,000), poultry ($100,000) and honeybees ($200,000).
Partnership to Establish Goat Meat Industry: establishes a link between the Central Division and the farmers in Northern Division through which the goats will be channeled through the abattoirs and the end products to the supermarkets, hotels, butchers and retail shops.

A total of six farms (including two commercial farms and four semi-commercial farms) will be linked to the middleman for improvement of the formal market production.
In addition, the project will also focus on the development and linkage of farmers to formal market through the cluster development.

Total of nine clusters –– of which five are in the Northern Division and four in Western Division –– will be assisted with fencing, water tanks and chaff cutters ($1.0 million).
Brucellosis Free Fiji: ensures that proper biosecurity measures are in place to better control stock through secure boundary fences, support on farm testing facilities, improved 84 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights calf rearing infrastructures and management, improved nutrition, and introduction of better genetics.

The program is a collaborative one where each individual farmer is required to provide inputs (labour, and reports) to assist the programme ($1.0 million).
BTEC Programme for Disease Surveillance: supports the nationwide control of brucellosis and tuberculosis and the eventual eradication of these diseases from Fiji's cattle industry ($2.8 million).

Dairy Development Programme: covers milk cartage costs from farms to chilling centres and fodder development to help dairy farmers boost their milk production capacity through a grant to Fiji Corporative Dairy Company Limited ($700,000).
Livestock Research: The programme supports research activities for goats ($180,000), pigs ($200,000), sheep ($350,000), beef ($350,000), and poultry ($200,000).

Livestock Rehabilitation Programme: supports the importation of stronger livestock breeds from overseas and also compensates farmers whose livestock are affected by tuberculosis ($900,000).
Veterinary Pathology Lab Upgrade: supports continued capital upgrading of the existing Veterinary Pathology Laboratory at the Koronivia Research Station to a standard where it can be accredited by the World Animal Health Organisation and National Association of Testing Authorities ($250,000).
Establishment of Juncao Grass: establishes and develops juncao fodder plots on farms and Government stations to improve the nutritional status of the livestock considering the climate change factors affecting the animals during dry period.
The two focal project sites will be Koronivia Research Station and Sigatoka Research Station, and later will be expanded to all Government livestock research stations, including Nawaicoba quarantine station, Mua sheep station, Batiri sheep station, Seaqaqa research station, Waidradra bull station, Dobuilevu station and other selected farms ($180,000).
85 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Fisheries The Fisheries Sector is the nation’s second leading primary-resource-based sector.

Fijian fisheries are a key contributor to social and economic development, marine resource management and the conservation of our ocean life.
The Ministry of Fisheries is the regulatory and service organisation responsible for national fisheries management through the administration and enforcement of national fisheries policies, programmes and projects.

In this regard, the Ministry ensures that Fiji is able to meet its international obligations relating to marine resources.

The Ministry provides efficient and effective fisheries extension services delivery to fishing communities and other stakeholders.
This includes applied marine resource research to foster and promote marine resource commodity development for income generation, food security and sustainable management practices.

A major priority for the Ministry is to strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems, including an increase in patrols, to eliminate unlicensed and undersized fishing.

A study will be carried out to assess the gaps in these systems and determine the most effective and feasible option to reduce and eliminate illegal fishing.
The total budget for the Ministry of Fisheries in 2019-2020 is $17.2 million, comprising $11.0 million for operating expenditure, $5.3 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.8 million.
MINISTRY OF FISHERIES BUDGET 2019-2020 5% 31% 64% 86 Operating Capital Value Added Tax Aid in Kind - $883.3 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives: Supporting the sustainable growth of aquaculture industries through: Aquaculture Programme: supports the expansion of aquaculture through infrastructural upgrade of the Naduruloulou Hatchery, Ba and Sigatoka Hatchery and rehabilitation of the Dreketi Hatchery and farmer training and awareness at village/community level ($400,000).
Brackishwater Development Programme: funds infrastructure development at Galoa Station to ensure consistent supply of post larvae to current shrimp farmers and those Fijians interested in entering into shrimp farming.

Funds will also cover the training and advisory support provided to local farmers on proper shrimp farming, allowing them to make the most of their businesses ($380,000).
Seaweed Development Programme: supports commercial seaweed production and provides a sustainable income generating venture for rural coastal and maritime communities ($259,225).

Construction of Multi Species Hatchery – Ra: funds the ongoing upgrade of the hatchery to support the supply of tilapia fingerlings and prawn fly to farmers in the Western Division, greatly bolstering the area’s seafood farming industry ($533,769).
Food Security Program – Freshwater Aquaculture Small-Holder Farmers: provides Government subsidy support on a 1/3, 2/3 basis to assist farmers to develop sustainable aquaculture farms ($300,000).

Assistance to Commercial Brackishwater Shrimp Aquaculture Farmers: funds the commercial aquaculture (shrimp and prawn) farmers ($500,000).
Providing more efficient and more expansive advisory services on inshore/coastal fisheries through: Coastal Fisheries Development: strengthens inshore fisheries development in the maritime and coastal communities by providing advisory services to fishermen on quality control, fish handling and marketing, deployment of Fish Aggregate Devices (FAD), compiling and collating of inshore data and repair of outboard engines ($772,380).
87 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Construction of Wainigadru Ice Plant: includes the construction of an office building, staff quarters (Grade VI), procurement of an ice machine and installation of a solar system ($539,831).

Koro Ice Plant (Preparatory Works): funds the preparatory works for a new Koro Ice Plant, including necessary approvals for lease, and site levelling ($30,000).
Purchase of Aluminium Boat: procures a new aluminium boat and a 500HP engine for the Western Division.

The project is to ensure compliance, support effective monitoring and strengthen the enforcement against illegal fishing in the Western Division ($225,000).
Supporting extensive research and resource assessment on fish commodities and products through: Makogai Mariculture Development Centre: funds purchase of equipment for the Centre including a research boat, reseeding and spawning equipment, and trainings and awareness for local fishermen ($300,000).
Pearl Oyster Research and Development: supports the development of the Fiji Pearl Farming Industry by conducting feasibility surveys of potential spat collection sites, procuring spat materials, conducting training on spat collector farming and business planning, harvesting of spat from community-based farms, the development of the spat/pearl database and the review of the draft Pearl Management Plan ($295,200).
Fisheries Research and Conservation Project: funds the survey of six iQoliqoli out of the 210 iQoliqoli currently in queue.

There are a total of 410 iQoliqoli, of which 200 iQoliqoli have been surveyed.

The survey will provide data for management plans that will assist and inform resources owners on sustainable fishing practices ($300,000).
Ongoing Upgrade of Institutional Office and Quarters: carries out upgrading works at fisheries institutional Office and quarters that needs urgent maintenance and repair works ($200,000).

Completion of Wainibokasi Staff Quarters: funds the construction of Wainibokasi Staff Quarters to support fisheries operations at Wainibokasi ($300,000).
88 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Forests By working with industry partners, landowners and the general public to effectively manage Fiji’s forests, the Ministry of Forests is responsible for promoting the sustainable use of Fiji’s forestry resources.

Striking a balance of both economic and environmental sustainability is at the core of the Ministry’s mission.
This is actively being achieved through prudent oversight, the enforcement of relevant laws and regulations, conservation of forestry resources, issuance of forest licenses and the extension of support services, in line with the Fiji Forest Policy Statement 2007.

The Ministry’s 2019-2020 Budget allocations will support the enforcement of forestry legislation, policies and regulations to sustainably develop Fiji’s forests.
New strategies will be introduced to cultivate pine in maritime regions, improve the Ministry’s processes to better add value to forestry stakeholders, and capitalise on new opportunities in wood energy and plantation development.

Overall, the Ministry aims to realign the forestry sector to adopt a more modern and holistic approach, which facilitates the provision of timber resources, bioenergy production, habitat preservation, clean water production, biodiversity conservation, employment and carbon sinks.
The total budget for the Ministry of Forests in 2019-2020 is $16.5 million, comprising $11.3 million for operating expenditure, $4.5 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.7 million.
MINISTRY OF FORESTRY BUDGET 2019-2020 4% 27% Operating Capital 69% Value Added Tax 89 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Strengthening support services and widening the scope of research & development through: Upgrading of Office and Quarters: refurbishes existing institutional infrastructure, such as offices and departmental quarters at stations in Colo-i-Suva and Navua.
This will enhance the level of service delivery to the people and the quality of extension support by divisional forestry officers ($300,000).

Research & Development of Wood & Non-Wood Species: provides accurate and quality technical information on both wood and non-wood properties encouraging diversification and value-adding ($150,000).
Utilisation of Waste Wood: provides funding for research and encourages product development methodologies to transform waste hardwood (crown, roots, branches and stump) from mahogany, indigenous wood and some lesser known species into finished wood products.

A total of 77 people have been trained in wood utilisation and 11 small business groups have been formed since 2014 for this purpose ($367,500).
Reforesting degraded forests and promoting sustainable forest management through: Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD Plus): funds the Ministry’s work with development partners to develop sites around the country that will be ready to access carbon markets by 2020 ($490,700).

Sandalwood Programme: revives sandalwood plantation forests and maximises potential economic opportunities for farmers.
The matured selling price is $80-$100 per kg of wood and takes 15 to 20 years to reach commercial maturity ($100,000).

Reforestation of Degraded Forests with Indigenous and Other Species: supports and promotes sustainable forest management practices and the restoration of degraded, indigenous and other forest species ($1.1 million).

Upgrading of Forest Park: completes the upgrade of the Forest Park into a highly productive and valuable forest resource.
This will enhance park services as a key attraction for both locals and tourists.

The number of patrons has increased annually, with 15,733 visitors in 2013, 24,878 visitors in 2014, 25,724 visitors in 2015 and 44,000 visitors in 2016 90 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights ($200,000).

In 2017, there were 32,632 visitors and revenue collected was $118,000.

For 2018, there were 41,924 visitors and revenue collected was $109,000 (mostly local visitors).
Moreover, Colo-i-Suva Park was dedicated to the Queens Commonwealth Canopy and The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry officially inaugurated this by unveiling a Plaque at the Park in October 2018.

Supporting community-based forestry schemes through: Maritime Pine Development (Cicia, Gau and Kadavu): supports the Maritime Pine Schemes by supplying logging and sawmilling equipment to pine harvest plantation home construction ($1.0 million).
matured for of provides o Purchase Harvesting the Machines: supporting facilities to ensure efficient and compliance to OHS regulations while undertaking logging ($550,000).

o Purchase of Equipment – Lakeba Pine Scheme: the Lakeba Pine supports Scheme logging operations ($300,000).
91 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources is responsible for policy formulation, monitoring and implementation of programs in the areas governing State Land Administration, Mineral Sector and Fiji’s Groundwater Resources, all of which play a distinct role in Fiji’s economy.
Within the Ministry, the Department of Lands & Survey is responsible for the effective and efficient administration, development and management of all State land in Fiji.

Services that fall under the Department’s purview include the administration of State leases; land surveying; mapping; land valuation; survey plan examination and approval; development and maintenance of State land; and geospatial information systems.
The Department also manages the Land Use Unit, which coordinates the implementation of Government’s land reform initiatives.

The Unit aims to improve socioeconomic growth while striking a balance between landowners and tenants, ensuring both fair returns that reflect current market conditions and a more secure, predictable leasing environment.

Separately, the Department of Mineral Resources oversees and facilitates development of Fiji’s mineral, rock and groundwater resources.
It undertakes studies in relation to geological hazard assessment, which includes geotechnical issues, and monitors for landslides, earthquakes and tsunamis for public alerts and warnings.

The Department also regulates the mining and quarrying sector and monitors the sector’s impact on Fiji’s environment.
The total budget for the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources in 2019-2020 is $29.6 million, comprising $19.3 million for operating expenditure, $8.9 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $1.4 million.
MINISTRY OF LANDS AND MINERAL RESOURCES BUDGET 2019-2020 5% 30% 65% 92 Operating Capital Value Added Tax The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Providing access to reliable water sources and strengthening the capabilities of the Department of Mineral Resources: Groundwater Assessment and Development on Small Islands: covers the construction of water reticulation systems, maintenance of boreholes and the provision of technical training on managing borehole systems in the maritime regions ($600,000).
Groundwater Assessment and Development on Large Islands: covers the construction of water reticulation systems, maintenance of boreholes and provision of technical training on managing borehole systems on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu ($1.5 million).

Mineral Investigation: assesses the potential of mineral sites and encourages foreign companies to undertake exploration work.
Information on the potential sites is showcased during public awareness programs, including international and local mining and geological conferences ($300,000).

Purchase of Technical Equipment: procures equipment in geological and geotechnical investigations throughout Fiji, including seismic monitoring, mines software, and monitoring of mineral/groundwater investigations.
Expanded exploration provides more accurate information on major climatic/geographic occurrences such as earthquakes and tsunamis, allowing Fijians to be alerted in times of emergency ($231,000).

for use Core Repository Storage Facility: completes the construction of the new storage facility for core samples for more effective analyses and assessments of mineral prospects, which will allow for the Ministry to identify areas with high economic potential.
The project will be completed in September 2018 when core samples from around the country are transferred to the new facility ($166,885).

Upgrade of Seismology Equipment: upgrades existing stations to ensure effective and efficient transformation of reliable information.

This will also ensure early dissemination of information on earthquake and aftershocks ($600,000).
Making more land available for development with proper surveying: National Geodetic Infrastructure: links unconnected areas to the national framework 93 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights system and upgrades existing areas to ensure that survey control marks are accessible for surveys ($80,000).

Survey of Government Property on iTaukei Land: facilitates the issuance of registered leases ($300,000).
Survey of Mahogany Plantations: provides valuable information for sustainable plantation use and management.

All 14 mahogany plantations are on iTaukei land, and surveys are being carried out according to the harvesting schedule of Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited (FHCL) ($512,486).

Addressing the underutilisation of land: Development of State Land: develops underutilised state land with ongoing civil and earth works at Field 40 in Lautoka and Vakamaisuasua in Labasa ($1.2 million).
Maintenance of Existing Subdivisions: improves those subdivisions on State land that lack sufficient infrastructure and utility services which, upon completion, are then transferred to the relevant authorities to maintain ($300,000).

Development of iTaukei Land – Land Use: supports the development of iTaukei lands.

In 2019-2020, the programme will complete civil and earth works for the development of residential lots at the Legalega subdivision in Nadi and Yako subdivision in Nadroga ($1.5 million).
Supporting the Department of Lands and Survey by improving current capacities: Upgrade of the Geodetic Datum: supports Fiji’s Geodetic Survey Control Network by upgrading the nation’s map data to align with international standards.

This will ensure a strong and well-maintained network of mapping coordinates, which is vital for reliable cadastral surveying and the establishment of accurate Fijian land boundaries ($250,000).
Document Management System: to set up a document management system that will electronically accept lease applications from end users (customers) as well as other in- house processing ($294,223).

94 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Upgrade of Oracle (State Lease Reform): upgrades the existing State Land Lease Platform to allow improved maintenance of land information for leases, valuation, file movement and survey plan journals ($321,550).
Fiji Geospatial Information: facilitates the collation of Fiji’s land use and utilisation data into a data repository which is then entered into the land use database to use in the creation of maps ($200,000).

95 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Industry, Trade & Tourism The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism aims to promote Fiji to the world as an attractive destination for new business, greater flows of investment and higher numbers of tourists.
The Ministry actively works to solidify and strengthen Fiji’s position as the economic hub of the Pacific, and to develop and diversify the Fijian economy to be more vibrant, dynamic, and export-led.

Across all industries, the Ministry strives to adapt and innovate the nation’s growing economy to ensure that Fijian businesses can aggressively compete on the international stage by broadening the base of export markets for Fijian-Made products and services.
To ignite grassroots entrepreneurship, the Ministry’s programmes and initiatives heavily focus on the support and development of Fiji’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) –– the backbone of Fijian society.

By creating a business climate where good ideas can easily become reality, the Ministry is empowering ordinary Fijians’ ability to tap into their economic potential, all while growing the economy as a whole.
The Ministry also specifically incentivises young Fijians through the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) who have innovative business ideas by providing skills training and economic guidance, arming them with the necessary knowledge to navigate Fiji’s formal financial sector with a higher chance of success.

The Ministry will continue to add fuel to the Fijian tourism industry, ensuring that tourism numbers– from visitors to dollars spent–continue their upward trajectory.
To foster the sustainable development of this economically-vital industry, the Ministry is constantly engaging with industry stakeholders, including Fiji Airways, to expand the nation’s tourism source markets.

in 2019-2020 The total budget for the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism is $67.1 million, comprising $33.3 million for operating expenditure, $32.8 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $1.0 million.
96 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY, TRADE AND TOURISM 2019-2020 BUDGET 1% 50% 49% Operating Capital Value Added Tax Aid in Kind - $17.2m Major Initiatives Expanding international marketing programmes to maintain Fiji’s strong position in global tourism: Tourism Fiji Marketing Grant: continues global branding initiatives in target markets to ensure that Fiji remains a top holiday destination and maintains its growth in the tourism sector, a main pillar of the Fijian economy ($29.8 million).
Strengthening and supporting the growth of MSMEs and the increasing opportunities for Fijian entrepreneurs: Micro and Small Business Grants: encourages micro and small-scale economic activity and boosts income capacities by improving the quality of products and services of MSMEs ($300,000).
Northern Development Programme: provides business training and technical support to improve livelihoods and facilitate growth in rural communities, generating funds from business owners and financial institutions through partnerships ($441,056).
97 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES): provides grants of up to $30,000 to young and budding Fijian entrepreneurs between the ages of 18-30 who have innovative and bankable ideas, but lack the collateral required to receive loans from financial institutions.

Training and mentorship will also fall under the Scheme, arming them with the necessary knowledge to navigate Fiji’s formal financial sector with a higher chance of success ($500,000).
Standardised Roadside Stalls: supports roadside vendors along Fiji’s major highways with the installation of new semi-permanent or portable stalls.

The free roadside stalls are attractive, high-quality and hurricane-resistant, allowing our vendors to better market their goods in a safer and more reliable structure ($500,000).
Special Economic Zone: develops a special economic zone with supporting infrastructure and utilities aim to increase trade balance, employment, increased investment, job creation and effective administration.

The zone will contribute to positioning Fiji as a regional hub for services and manufacturing, bolstering the Fijian economy ($500,000).
Research and Innovation Scheme for Enterprises (RISE): encourages Fijian entrepreneurs to elevate their enterprises by engaging in research and development, particularly in the areas of science and innovation.

Proposals that commit to the socio-economic development to Fiji by aligning to the national, regional and international Green and Blue economy agenda will be preferred ($500,000).
National Youth Award: stages a national awards event to recognise the achievements of youths and young entrepreneurs, putting a spotlight on Fiji’s immense human capital.

The National Award event will amalgamate all youth award events in the respective Government agencies (Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism) and the financial institutions (Reserve Bank of Fiji and Fiji Development Bank) ($200,000).
98 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Sugar Industry Over 200,000 Fijians directly rely on the health of the nation’s sugarcane farming industry.

To support these Fijians and the Fijian economy, the Ministry of Sugar Industry is responsible for laying down a solid foundation for a vibrant and sustainable industry that remains prosperous in the face of modern challenges.
The Ministry’s support to the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is guided by its newly adapted five-year Strategic Action Plan (SAP) that focuses on infrastructure development at the farm level and interventions that control production costs for sugarcane farmers.

The SAP is based on targeted interventions to reverse the decline in sugarcane production and, through adopting new innovations, assist farmers in reducing costs of production and improving their viability.
The approved increase in Government Guarantee to FSC, totalling $202.0 million, will be used to make strategic investments to modernise the industry, effectively improving both its services and infrastructure.

Compounding on FSC’s support of Fijian sugarcane farmers, the Ministry’s allocation in the 2019-2020 National Budget will provide further targeted assistance to sugarcane farmers.
The Fijian Government –– in partnership with the FSC –– will establish and make contributions to a sugar cane stabilisation fund.

A base price of $85 per tonne has been agreed in principle for a period of three years, which will be reviewed thereafter.

This will instill confidence and provide price certainty for farmers.
The total budget for the Ministry of Sugar Industry in 2019-2020 is $70.4 million, comprising $4.8 million for operating expenditure, $65.1 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.6 million.

MINISTRY OF SUGAR INDUSTRY BUDGET 2019-2020 1% 7% 92% 99 Operating Capital Value Added Tax Aid In Kind - $2.8m The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Sugarcane Development and Farmers Assistance: continues with cane replanting, especially within areas already under cane.
The focus will be on replanting on fallow land and ratoon restoration ($4.0 million).

Cane Access Roads: covers ongoing upgrading works on cane access roads and the installation of culverts ($3.0 million).

Cane Cartage (Penang to Rarawai): covers the transportation costs of sugarcane from Penang to the Rarawai Mill ($4.0 million).

Fertiliser Subsidy: subsidises the cost of fertiliser to increase supply to sugarcane farmers.
This allocation has been increased due to Government raising its subsidy from $14.09 to $25.59 per 50kg bag ($15.6 million).

Weedicide Subsidy: supports the procurement of weedicide –– such as Diuron 80 and Glyphosate and Amine 720 –– to enable farmers to adopt better weed control and keep their production costs stable ($1.0 million).

New Farmers Assistance: provides a comprehensive assistance package to Fijians seeking to start their own sugarcane farm.
Under this programme, Government covers the cost of acquiring a lease for a plot of farmland from iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB).

To nurture fledgling farms, Government also covers the cost of preparing, planting, and cultivating the first four hectares of sugarcane, and facilitates the acquisition of a cane contract with FSC ($500,000).
Sugarcane Farm Mechanisation: supports the use of machineries on sugarcane farms through assistance to cooperatives and farmer groups, modernising the Fijian sugar industry to be more efficient and overcome the challenges of labour shortages ($500,000).

Sugar Individual Small Grants Scheme: meets requests for essential infrastructure that arise during sector meetings and industry consultations, including irrigation works, water pumps, boreholes, water tanks, etc.

($500,000).
($500,000).

Purchase of trucks: subsidises FSC’s purchase of new trucks to assist in the cartage of cane to mills ($5.9 million).

100 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Sugar Stabilisation Fund: covers the difference between current cane price and the $85 per tonne price floor to be paid to farmers ($30.0 million).
101 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Local Government The Ministry of Local Government is guided by the overarching vision that good governance at all levels of society is critical to both Fiji’s economic development and to the realisation of every Fijian’s constitutional rights.
Recognising that the duties of productive local governance often fall outside the strictly-drawn boundaries of a municipality, Government is taking strides to give the Ministry the tools it requires to implement effective change not only locally, but regionally.
This is reflected in the Ministry’s 2019-2020 budget allocation, with funding allocations for projects like ambulatory services and waste collection that work at a local level to fit into Government’s broader national goals of creating a healthier, cleaner Fiji to pass down to future generations.

The total budget for the Ministry of Local Government in 2019-2020 is $28.4 million, comprising $9.5 million for operating expenditure, $18.8 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $0.2 million.
MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT BUDGET 2019-2020 Operating Capital Value Added Tax 1% 33% 66% 102 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Major Initiatives Department of Local Government Supporting the vital work of the National Fire Authority to maintain public safety: Emergency Ambulance Services – National Fire Authority: subsidises the operational expenses of emergency ambulance services during fires and emergencies ($1.6 million).
National Fire Authority Capital Grant: procures fire equipment, fire trucks and apparatus kits to effectively equip firefighters during emergency operations.

Funding will also be directed towards the upgrading and maintenance of fire stations around Fiji ($1.0 million).
Improving the capacity of all municipal councils to effectively deliver services: Waste Collection Subsidy – Municipal Councils: supports the collection of rubbish from informal settlements and in areas within town boundaries that are managed by a local authority ($3.0 million).

Challenge and Investment Fund – Municipal Councils: supports capital investment for all municipal councils.
Planned projects for 2019-2020 include preparatory works for the relocation of the market and bus station in Sigatoka and Labasa, preparatory works for the construction of a multi-purpose court in Davuilevu and Nadi, and the ongoing upgrade of Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori ($4.0 million).

Preparatory Works – Valelevu Sports Stadium: supports the Council’s efforts to secure donor assistance for the construction of the new Valelevu Sports Stadium ($340,000).
Completion of Swimming Pool – Lautoka: funds the completion of construction work for this project.

The aquatic centre will house an Olympic-standard competition pool, a warm up pool and a children’s pool.

It will allow Lautoka to host high-profile domestic, regional and international swimming competitions ($4.1 million).

Preparatory Works for New Bus Station - Rakiraki: funds the preparatory works for the new Rakiraki bus station ($480,000).
103 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Construction of Municipal Mini-Markets: supports the construction of standard minimarkets at identified locations ($250,000).

Preparatory Works for New Swimming Pool – Nasinu: supports the completion of preparatory works to enable the start of construction on the new pool ($480,000).

Completion of Govind Park – Ba: funds the completion of the park’s new pavilion and upgrade of the playing field ($70,000).
Completion of Namaka Market - Nadi: supports the completion of construction works for this project that will bring greater economic opportunity and independence for Fijians in the Namaka area ($545,000).

Installation of Flood Lights at Churchill Park – Lautoka: supports preparatory works for the installation of new floodlights at Churchill Park to IAAF standards ($490,000).
Improvement of Ventilation and Lighting at Lautoka Market: improves ventilation and lighting conditions at the Lautoka market ($1.0 million).

Preparatory Works for New Lami Market: supports preparatory works for the construction of a new market in Lami ($250,000).

Preparatory Works for New Bus Station between Nakasi and Valelevu/Nadera: covers consultancy costs for a new bus station to be constructed between Suva and Nausori ($70,000).
Restroom for Korovou Rural Local Authority: funds construction of a new restroom in Korovou, Tailevu ($100,000).
Department of Town and Country Planning Developing smaller urban centres in order to relieve the pressure on basic infrastructure and the environment in major urban centres: New Town Development: establishes town centres in high-growth areas within rural and remote areas at Nabouwalu in Bua, Korovou in Nausori, Seaqaqa in Macuata and Keiyasi 104 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights in Nadroga/Navosa, which includes zone creation for future development ($1.5 million).
Ensuring efficient, effective and sustainable development in towns and cities: Municipalities Master Plan – Singapore Cooperation Enterprise: funds the Ministry’s ambitious urban planning programme, which will forever change the face of Fiji’s urban areas for the better as the nation transforms to suit a modern economy.

In 2019-2020, work will commence on master plans for the Greater Suva Area and Nadi, laying the groundwork for more efficient, affordable, and attractive Fijian cities ($3.0 million).
Urban Policy Action Plan Implementation: supports the development of town planning schemes and action plans for development of urban centres ($50,000).

105 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport consists of the Transport Planning Unit, Government Shipping Services, Department of Water and Sewerage, Department of Works and the Department of Energy.
The Ministry also administers the grant funds allocated to statutory bodies, Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF).

these departments and statutory authorities work efficiently to manage Fiji’s Together, infrastructure network, which has vastly expanded over the past decade.

This network of roads, bridges, ports, jetties and services infrastructure is critical to both the well-being of the Fijian people and the nation’s economic development.
As such, Government is committed to ensuring reasonable access to reliable infrastructure and essential services for every Fijian citizen.

The Ministry’s total budget for the 2019-2020 financial year is $89.6 million, comprising of $57.0 million for operating expenditure, $31.2 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $1.4 million.
Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport 2019-2020 Budget 1% 35% 64% Operating Expenses Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid In Kind: $5.8m 106 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The major expenditures for the Ministry are as follows: An increase in the operational grant for MSAF to promote safer seas.
The Transport Planning Unit will conduct necessary consultations for the implementation of new passengers’ rights, which will codify basic standards for maritime passenger travel, scheduling and fares, thereby providing newfound security for maritime travellers and accountability among service providers ($40,000).
Igniting grassroots entrepreneurship and harness the green economy for maritime islands in coconut rich regions, the Ministry has allocated $350,000 for the upgrade of existing biofuel mills on the islands of Moala and Matuku in Lau.

Promoting safety and efficiency within Fiji’s transportation network: Operating Grant to LTA to provide a safe, efficient, and sustainable land transport system ($23.3 million).

Capital Grant to LTA for ongoing capital projects.


These include the construction of permanent weighbridge at Karavi, Ba ($2.5 million); the fencing and security lighting for three LTA-owned premises (Valelevu; Cuvu, Sigatoka; and Lautoka) ($730,000); and the supply of end user equipment ($200,000).
Supporting inclusive growth and development, Government will continue to expand Fiji’s inter-island transportation network in order to better connect those living in maritime and outer islands and their local economies - with the rest of Fiji and beyond: Purchase of new Government vessel (including the finalisation of design and construction) for the transportation of passengers and cargo to maritime islands ($3.0 million).
Shipping Services Subsidy: supports cost-effective shipping services to maritime routes that are otherwise considered to be uneconomical ($2.3 million).

Complete the construction of a retaining wall at the Government wharf at Walu Bay.

The project includes a ramp area that would increase berthing capacity, and pontoons for berthing of Government vessels ($700,000).

107 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Complete the upgrading works for the government wharf at Walu Bay ($650,000).
Ensuring that proper maintenance and upgrading works are carried out on deteriorating Government buildings: Maintenance, Upgrade and Refurbishment of Public Structures and Water & Sewer Lines: covers the rehabilitation and upgrading of public buildings which include carpentry works and upgrading of water supply and sewer lines ($800,000).
Increasing access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy services for all Fijians: Rehabilitation of Diesel Schemes for the Relocated Communities and Re-constructed Homes: funds the completion of rehabilitation works on diesel schemes that were damaged by TC Winston ($2.2 million).

Complete the rehabilitation of Solar Home Systems in Kadavu that were severely damaged during TC Keni ($855,067).
Bringing clean electricity to the island of Taveuni through the construction of a 1.55MW solar grid connected project in partnership with the Korean International Cooperation Agency.

As part of Government’s commitment to the project, the Department of Energy is provided with an allocation of $170,000 for the construction of a two-kilometer access road to the proposed Mua solar grid project site.
Rural Electrification Project: funds allocated for the major rural electrification activities: o Energy Fiji Limited Grid Extension Projects ($9,247,883) o Housewiring for EFL Grid Extension Programme ($3,293,212) o Solar Home Systems Programme ($5,405,081) EFL Subsidy: provides Government subsidy to domestic customers with combined annual income less than or equal to $30,000.

To date, 31,025 households and 754 schools benefit from the subsidy programme.
The budget is allocated under Head 50 ($4.0 million).

108 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Ministry of Waterways and Environment The Ministry of Waterways and Environment recognises that waterways management and the preservation of Fiji’s natural environment share many inherent linkages, with the country’s waterways subject to particular vulnerability to the worsening impacts of climate change.
The Ministry will maintain drainage systems and manage Fiji’s creeks, tributaries and rivers.

It will set out the direction for the waterways sector to achieve sustainable development, effectively manage the nation's water resources for economy-wide benefits, and implement activities and policies to mitigate economic loss caused by floods.

The Ministry will also continue to ensure that Fiji’s national development does not come at the cost of our natural environment.
Through the implementation of coordinated environmental legislations, policies and programmes, it will work to expand public awareness and enforce strict adherence to the laws that preserve Fiji’s ecosystems for future generations.

The Ministry’s total budget for the 2019-2020 financial year is $33.9 million, comprising of $8.7 million for operating expenditure, $23.2 million for capital expenditure and VAT of $2.1 million.
Ministry of Waterways and Environment 2019-2020 Budget 26% 6% 68% Operating Expenses Capital Expenditure Value Added Tax Aid In Kind: $1.3m 109 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The major expenditures for the Ministry are as follows: $5.0 million is allocated to prepare and protect Fiji’s coastal communities from severe weather events and erosion through the construction of seawalls, groynes and wave breakwaters.
As part of the extensive preparatory works for the Nadi River Flood Alleviation Project, which will widen the river to protect the surrounding area from flooding, comprehensive surveys will be carried out, including geotechnical analyses and detailed design works for Project B (widening of the river, construction of existing bridges, ring dikes, retention ponds).

The budget is allocated under Head 50 ($7.95 million).
Construction of Naboro Landfill: improves waste management in the Central Division by constructing Stage 2 Cell 3 of the Naboro Landfill, will provide a minimum air space of 96,000 cubic metres ($5.2 million).
Community Beautification Programme: aims to empower and encourage Fijian communities to maintain and upkeep their surroundings through cosmetic improvements such as planting flowers, painting, litter pick-up campaigns, light rehabilitation works and other initiatives as deemed appropriate by members of the community ($150,000).
Maintaining irrigation schemes around the country: Maintenance of Irrigation Schemes: covers upkeep of irrigation systems through the installation of new flood and flap gates, desilting of drains and canals and rehabilitation of irrigation structures ($1.0 million).

Farm Development Programme: improves and effectively maintains drainage systems for all farmland in waterlogged areas through irrigation support ($500.000).
Clearing and improving drainage systems and watersheds for flood control measures: Drainage and Flood Protection: reduces flood risk in low-lying and agricultural farming investigations and designs, areas by dredging rivers, carrying out engineering constructing river bank boulders to prevent coastal erosion and conducting necessary environmental impact assessments ($3.0 million).
110 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Drainage for Farmlands: rehabilitates existing farm drainage systems within the cane- growing and major agricultural farming regions around the country to minimise flood risk and crop damage ($1.0 million).

Maintenance of Drainage - Municipal Councils: upkeeps drainage under all municipal councils, upgrades drains and creeks to mitigate flood risk in urban and peri-urban areas ($2.3 million).
Watershed Management: optimises water resources for agricultural production, in tandem with managing domestic usage in drought-prone regions during dry seasons and increasing water yield and quality ($1.5 million).

$1.0 million is allocated for Drainage for Rural Residential Areas, a project aimed at alleviating the effects of flooding in rural households.
Curbing pollution and conserving Fiji’s natural resources, including lakes and rivers, our biodiversity, forests and wildlife: Implementation and Enforcement of the Environment Management Act ($50,000): caters for the implementation of the Environment Management Act and raises public awareness on the Act’s provisions.
Litter Awareness: funds assistance to the Municipal Councils to conduct quarterly clean- up campaigns that ensure the safe and proper collection of unwanted white goods, such as damaged television sets, washing machines and old refrigerator machines, which are particularly harmful to the environment when disposed improperly ($70,000).
3R Awareness Programme: supports the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (3Rs) programme by raising awareness in primary and secondary schools, allowing Fijians of all ages to be active climate warriors and participate in the international environmental campaign.

Funds will be used to purchase 3Rs bins for all schools located within the boundaries of municipal councils ($60,000).
Phase-out of Methyl Bromide: covers the ongoing training of officers from the Department of Environment, Fiji Ports Cooperation Limited, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, and private sector fumigation companies on the Accredited Fumigation standards and procedures.

The Ozone Unit within the Ministry will facilitate these trainings ($40,000).
111 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) Phase-out Management Plan: implements programmes outlined in the HCFC Phase-out Management Strategy that will assist Government to meet its obligation to the Montreal Protocol to maintain the 10% reduction in Fiji’s use of ozone-depleting gases ($40,000).
112 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Water Authority of Fiji Access to clean water is both a fundamental right of every Fijian, as enshrined in the Fijian Constitution, and an essential component of sustainable development.

The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) is responsible for helping achieve Government’s vision to give every Fijian household access to clean water and efficient and effective wastewater services.
WAF currently provides these services to over 164,000 residential and non-residential metered customers, reaching over 700,000 Fijians nationwide.

WAF has made serious progress in becoming a fully-modernised utility provider due to its continuing investment in human capital, adoption of international best practises across its services, procurement of new equipment and efforts to raise public awareness on water conservation.
Over the next three to five years, WAF will continue to work with stakeholders to establish new innovations and to identify new approaches to improve operational efficiency and service delivery for Fijians in a sustainable manner.

The total budget for WAF in 2019-2020 is $258.7 million, comprising $88.99 million for operating expenditure and $169.7 million for capital expenditure.
Water Authority of Fiji 2019-2020 Budget 34% 66% Operating Expenses Capital Expenditure Aid In Kind: $1.5m 113 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The major expenditures are as follows: Expanding access to water and wastewater reticulation systems: Water Sources and Water Treatment Plants: constructing and upgrading water treatment plants to increase capacity in new and existing areas ($30.7 million).
Water Distribution System Project: improves and expands WAF’s ability to distribute clean and safe drinking water to a growing customer base ($25.2 million).

Wastewater Treatment Plant: continually upgrades wastewater treatment plants by expanding capacity in line with sewer extension projects ($10.5 million).

Improvement and Upgrade of Wastewater Distribution System: extends wastewater reticulation systems in line with capacity improvements at wastewater treatment facilities ($10.3 million).
Providing access to safe drinking water in rural and peri-urban areas: Rural Water Supply Programme: covers the provision of safe drinking water to upwards of 32 schemes, which includes villages, settlements, schools and health facilities ($11.3 million).

Rural Water Carting to Non-Metered Areas: distributes water supplies to non-metered communities that are experiencing intermittent water supply or are affected by worsening drought conditions due to changing weather patterns ($5.0 million).
Government Subsidy for Rainwater Harvesting Systems: funds a 70% subsidy for systems that will allow for the collection and storage of rainwater by Fijians living in peri- urban and rural areas affected by intermittent water supply.

Eligible households that construct the necessary bases and gutter systems will be provided with 5,000L water tanks ($3.0 million).
Improving operational efficiency, resilience and sustainability: Integrated Meter Management: replaces defective water meters to reduce billing errors 114 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights and improve water meter accuracy ($2.0 million).

Non-Revenue Water Reduction Project: reduces the amount of water leakages throughout the water reticulation system ($4.2 million).

Water Catchment Management Programme: surveys new water sources by undertaking hydrological studies ($900,000).
Electrical Upgrading Project: installs new generators and switchboard systems to ensure sufficient and reliable power supply to WAF facilities and resilience to power disruptions ($8.7 million).

o Relocation of Existing Water and Wastewater Pipeline - FRA Road Works: relocates existing water and the major wastewater pipeline on ongoing road works ($1.0 million).

o Emergency Response Contingency: carries out repair and immediate rehabilitation works during and after natural disasters ($2.3 million).
WAF Facilities Upgrade: refurbishes existing warehouses, staff quarters, depots and offices to improve service delivery and improve working conditions ($500,000).

Urban Water Supply and Wastewater Management Project: augments vital urban infrastructure and services to support sustainable growth and development in the Greater Suva Area by increasing water-supply capacity by 26% and wastewater-treatment capacity by 164%.
As part of the project, a new 40 mega litre treatment plant will be constructed in Viria, Rewa.

Blended funding provided by the Asian Development Bank ($13.5 million), European Investment Bank ($5.5 million), the Green Climate Fund ($13.3 million), and local funding ($20.7 million) has made this immense project possible.
115 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Fiji Roads Authority The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is responsible for the country’s entire surface-transportation network which, due to unprecedented funding allocations in recent years, has been massively expanded and upgraded to provide new levels of access and far greater mobility to the Fijian people.
As the network that connects our towns, cities, domestic and international ports and rural and maritime communities, FRA’s assets facilitate increased flows of goods and services throughout our country.

FRA is tasked with improving and expanding Fiji’s roads to fit the needs of a society where a growing number of financially-empowered citizens own motor vehicles.
This encompasses a comprehensive approach that involves not only paving new roads, but also rethinking the way that Fijians use those that already exist, and fostering innovations that will streamline the way that Fijians get from place to place.

FRA is embarking on an ambitious capacity-building and congestion-managing programme that will see network expansion throughout Fiji.
The initiative will create more lane space on existing roads; undertake traffic counts and transportation studies throughout the country that will inform on the changes required to assist in congestion management; and construct bypass roads around all major urban centres (such as Labasa, Lautoka and Nadi), increasing lane space to relieve congestion in the worst-affected areas.
The Authority is also responsible for implementing the footpaths and street-lighting programmes, which give greater measures of safety and security to roadside communities and pedestrians all across Fiji.

The total budget for FRA in 2019-2020 is $419.4 million, comprising $19.7 million for operating expenditure and $399.8 million for capital expenditure.
Fiji Roads Authority 2019-2020 Budget 5% 95% 116 Operating Expenses Capital Expenditure Aid In Kind: $0.9m The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The major expenditures are as follows: Improving the standard of the existing road network: Maintenance Programme: covers the maintenance of the overall road network ($60.0 million).

Renewals and Replacements Programme: covers the renewal and replacement of existing road assets that have deteriorated ($36.1 million).
Upgrading and Replacement of Bridges – Bridge Renewals: covers the renewal and replacement of existing bridges and crossings ($62.4 million).

Jetty Maintenance and Renewals: covers the renewal and replacement of existing jetty assets ($1.4 million).

Transport Infrastructure Investment Sector Project: rehabilitates roads, bridges and rural jetties to achieve climate-resilient transport infrastructure, more efficient project management support and effective institutional management.
The project is financed through Asian Development Bank and World Bank loans of US$100 million and US$50 million respectively, supplementing already-robust Government investment.

The breakdown of the 2019-2020 allocation of $113.0 million are as follows: Government of Fiji - $14.0 million; Asian Development Bank - $66.0 million; and World Bank - $33.0 million.
Relieving traffic congestion and improving the safety of pedestrians and travellers in rural and urban areas: Capital Community Programme: covers the construction of footpaths and bus shelters, and improves signage in peri-urban and urban areas ($33.5 million).

117 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Streetlight Improvement Programme: covers street lighting installations in rural, peri- urban and urban areas ($8.7 million).
Capital Congestion and Capacity Improvements: aims to address congestion by increasing the capacity of existing road networks ($26.4 million).

Expanding and improving the rural road network access through upgrading, periodic maintenance and construction of new roads and crossings in the rural and maritime areas ($52.3 million).
An allocation of $5.0 million has been allocated for the design and construction of a four-lane road from Nasoso Junction to Lautoka to improve the travel time between this corridor.

In the 2019-2020 financial year, design will continue, with construction to start soon after the completion of these preparatory works.

The project is expected to be climate-resilient, and where possible, electricity cables will be put underground.
To improve access for rural Fijians to markets and pave the way for better development, $1.0 million is allocated for the preliminary works for tarsealing of East Bank of Sigatoka Valley Road.

118 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights How the 2019-2020 Budget Allocation for Ministry of Health and Medical Services Will Be Spent Government is committed to protecting and improving the health of all Fijians, regardless of income or geographic location.
It aims to achieve this through a wide-reaching and holistic approach, from the provision of preventative, curative, and rehabilitative medical care and treatment, to the encouragement of healthy lifestyles, to the training and education of a healthy public.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is tasked with achieving Government’s vision of a more modern and affordable Fijian healthcare system.
The Ministry is actively improving and bolstering its internal capacity, alongside partnering with outside experts, to address the specific health needs of the Fijian population.

It is seeking out innovative ways to deliver high-quality medical services and health education that reaches every Fijian community, no matter how remote.
The total allocation to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in the 2019-2020 Budget is $349.8 million, comprising of $303.5 million to cover operating costs, $34.7 million for capital expenditures and VAT of $11.5 million.

119 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Service Delivery To improve service delivery, the Ministry will recruit 175 doctors and 200 nurses, significantly bolstering staffing capacity at hospitals and health centres throughout Fiji.
By improving the sector’s doctor-to-patient ratio, this human capital infusion will cut down on patient wait time and foster a more personal culture of care.

Through a variety of aid programmes, the Ministry works to ensure that location and financial need are not barriers to accessing medical care.
$1.5 million has been allocated for Overseas Medical Treatment, covering the cost to send Fijians to specialised international hospitals where they can receive complex, life-saving medical procedures that are not yet available domestically.

To cover circumstances in which patients can neither practically be served by local doctors nor travel abroad, the Ministry hosts Foreign Visiting Teams in Fiji.
To meet the cost of travel, hospitality, treatment and imported surgery equipment, $300,000 is allocated in this year’s Budget.

Free travel assistance is also available for needy patients who are referred to a domestic facility for treatment through the Ministry’s Local Transport of Patients allocation, which totals $622,500 for 2019-2020.

An additional $2.1 million is allocated for Mercy Evacuations, where patients are airlifted - typically from remote and maritime areas - for emergency treatments.
$500,000 is provided for the engagement of specialised Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) to supplement the Ministry’s health services, including the provision of counselling, ambulatory services, eyecare, and reproductive and family health services.

$2.5 million is allocated for the engagement of private doctors for Locum Services at health centres during periods of peaked patient need.

$185,000 is provided for the Outreach Services.


This funding assists health personnel to extend their services to remote areas of Fiji, including rural and maritime areas where medical facilities are not currently available, thereby removing the patient’s burdens of travel.

The outreach team consists of doctors, nurses, allied staff and other support staff.

$2.5 million is allocated for the Community Health Worker (CHW) programme.
CHWs are chosen by the community members to promote health and wellness, and are then provided with competency-based training from the Ministry.

As first announced in the 2018-19 Budget, CHWs currently receive an increased monthly allowance of $200.

$200,000 is provided in subsidy assistance for low-income patients who require Kidney Dialysis.

Patients with an annual household income of below $30,000 can apply for a 50% subsidy for every dialysis treatment received, reducing the cost to $150.
Patients in Northern Division can visit the Northern Dialysis Centre for subsidised treatment, while patients in the Central Division can visit National Kidney Dialysis Treatment and Research Centre at Prime Plaza, Nadera.

To qualify for assistance, patients can register at the Ministry’s headquarters in Toorak, Suva.

120 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights $8.0 million is allocated for the Ministry’s Free Medicine Scheme for patients with an annual household income of below $20,000.
Under this scheme, patients are provided with essential medicine at zero cost.

All eligible drugs can be found on the Ministry’s essential drug list, available at health facilities and private pharmacies throughout Fiji.

To apply for kidney dialysis assistance or the free medicine scheme, patients can fill out the appropriate forms at any health facility.
Public Health Services The Ministry’s Public Health Services collectively address Government’s extensive preventive, curative, and rehabilitative initiatives, aimed at cultivating a healthier Fijian society.

$1.9 million is allocated for Wellness, funding that is aimed at curbing Fiji’s Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) through a comprehensive approach that includes early disease detection, monitoring, treatment and awareness.
Wellness programmes include: Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Fiji Suicidal Prevention Programme National Centre for Health Promotion Food and Nutrition Security Programme Rheumatic Heart Disease Prevention and Control Programme Food Supplement for Malnourished Children Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiatives Primary Eyecare Oral Health Promotion Programmes Antenatal Cardiac Care Mental Health Awareness $1.0 million is provided for communicable disease control and prevention under Health Protection.
Programmes also include environmental health and surveillance services, food control, disaster preparation, and emergency response programmes.
Health protection initiatives include: Neglected Tropical Diseases/Lymphatic Filariasis Communicable Disease Prevention & Control Provision of Polythene Bowls Food Unit Control and Protection of Pollution and Waste Management Control, Safety and Quality of Food and Drinking Water Environmental Planning, Management and Development Control Leptospirosis Control Programme Tobacco Control Enforcement 121 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Dengue Prevention and Control Clean-Up Campaign in Labasa Typhoid Prevention and Control Typhoid Vaccination $1.1 million is allocated for Family Health, funding the Ministry’s various family- focussed prevention and control programmes, including vaccines and immunisations.
Family health initiatives include: HIV/Aids Prevention and Control Programmes Family Health Projects Child Health Development Fiji Adolescent Health Programmes In addition to these specific programmes, funding is provided for primary care at health centres, nursing stations, and subdivisional hospitals throughout Fiji.

These facilities are managed by the four divisional offices, which are responsible for overseeing and implementing health services and initiatives at the local level.
122 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Hospital Services A sum of $95.3 million is allocated for Fiji’s three divisional hospitals and two specialised hospitals.

The three divisional hospitals (CWM, Lautoka and Labasa Hospitals), which provide a wider range of medical services compared to subdivisional hospitals, serve their respective divisions as the main referral point for more serious treatment and curative care.
The two specialised hospitals include: St. Giles Hospital: provides medical and rehabilitation services for patients suffering from mental illness.

In addition to inpatient and outpatient care, St. Giles provides services such as occupational therapy, day care facilities, forensic assessments, counselling services, community psychiatric nursing and electroconvulsive therapy.
Tamavua/Twomey Hospital: provides specialised medical treatment, including dermatology and rheumatology, and handles cases of rare communicable disease (tuberculosis and leprosy).

Rehabilitation services are also offered for severely disabled persons, including patients with spinal paralysis and stroke victims, in addition to prosthetic fittings for amputees.
Pharmacy and Biomedical Services The Fiji Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Services Centre is responsible for the procurement and supply chain management of various health commodities (drugs and medical supplies, consumables, vaccines and immunisations, medical and dental equipment, etc.).

Funding of $57.2 million is allocated to ensure all essential commodities are filled and distributed to health facilities throughout Fiji.
The Centre’s commercial arm –– its Bulk Purchase Scheme –– works with the private sector to minimise the cost of medicine and ensure all pharmaceuticals are sources from reputable suppliers.

Infrastructure To meet today’s demand for medical services, the Ministry is constructing, upgrading and refurbishing divisional and subdivisional hospitals, health centres and nursing stations throughout Fiji.
An allocation of $12.7 million is dedicated to the Ministry’s major health infrastructure projects, including: Extension of CWM Hospital Maternity Unit Construction of New Navosa Sub-divisional Hospital Upgrade and Extension of Rotuma Hospital 123 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Preliminary works for Labasa Hospital, Nausori Sub-divisional Hospital, Korovou Subdivisional Hospital, Valelevu Subdivisional Hospital and Lodoni Health Centre.
Concurrently, the Ministry plans to undertake major upgrades and refurbishment at a number of its hospitals, subdivisional hospitals, and health centres; $3.2 million is provided for the necessary planning, preparatory and maintenance works.
Notable projects include: Refurbishment of Emergency Department at CWM Hospital Refurbishment of Tamavua Twomey Hospital Refurbishment of Nabouwalu Subdivisional Hospital Refurbishment of Savusavu Subdivisional Hospital Upgrade of Nausori Health Centre (Emergency Department and Waiting Area) Maintenance of Vunisea Subdivisional Hospital An additional allocation of $2.0 million will fund Minor Maintenance and Repairs at healthcare facilities throughout Fiji.
Equipment Government is dedicated to filling these new and improved healthcare facilities, along with those that already exist, with modern, state-of-the-art tools and technology.

$9.9 million is allocated for the procurement of new and replacement equipment, including ITC infrastructure.
The following initiatives fall under this allocation: ICT Infrastructure and Networking Purchase of Equipment for Urban Hospitals Purchase of Equipment for Subdivisional Hospitals Purchase of Biomedical Equipment for Urban and Subdivisional Hospitals Purchase of Dental Equipment for Urban and Subdivisional Hospitals 124 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights How the 2019-2020 Budget Allocation for Rural Electrification Projects Will Be Spent The total allocation towards rural electrification in the 2019-2020 Budget is $17,966,177.
Rural electrification projects are carried out by Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) and the Department of Energy.

These projects spread the tremendous benefits of electricity to rural communities that would otherwise be considered uneconomical, and this informational booklet contains a detailed breakdown of those projects.

Grid Extension Programme $12,541,095 These projects extend EFL gridlines to communities that currently do not have access to electricity.
Grid Extension Projects - $9,247,883: 44 schemes will be carried out which are expected to benefit 1,419 applicants in the Central (109), Western (758), and Northern (552) Divisions.

The list of grid extension schemes that will be undertaken in 2019-2020 is attached below.

House Wiring - $1,500,000: allocated to install proper wiring in homes that will connect households to the EFL grid system.

$1,793,212 is allocated as rollover for House Wiring payments.
125 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Solar Home Systems Programme $5,405,081 This programme installs new solar home systems in households located in rural areas that do not have access to electricity and are too distant from EFL gridlines to qualify under the Grid Extension Programme.

New solar home systems - $3,000,000: 795 households in the Western (26), Northern (484), Central (137), and Eastern (148) Divisions will be benefiting from this project.
The list of areas that will benefit from this programme in 2019-2020 is attached below.

$1,526,876 is allocated as rollover for installation of 2,543 Solar Home Systems.

$373,962 is allocated as rollover for upgrading of 700 Type I Solar Home Systems.

$34,243 is allocated as rollover for replacement of components for existing Solar Home Sys- tems.

$120,000 is allocated for installation of solar at Cicia High School.

$350,000 is allocated for new replacement components.
Other Components $20,000 Other projects under the programme include: $20,000 is allocated for the upgrading of Tukavesi Switchboard.

126 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights List of 2019-2020 Grid Extension Projects No.

Scheme Name Scheme No.

No.
of Applicants Total Cost 1 Saioni Settlement, Valenicina, Lami SU04-14 Central Division 2 Vunaniu Village, Serua 3 Kabara Settlement, Nataveya, Naitasiri SE02-18 VU02-18 4 Vunilogologo Settlement, Suvavou, Suva SU07-18 5 Mua-ni-Wavu Settlement, Lami 6 Wailailai Settlement, Wainibuka 7 Nubuni Farm Lomaivuna, Naitasiri 8 Loganisebi Koromakawa Village, Naitasiri 9 Tova-Delaka Settlement, Korovou 10 Nauluvatu Settlement, Vuci South 11 Rivesi Settlement, Waidina, Naitasiri SU02-18 KO04-18 VU05-18 NU05-18 KO02-13 NU06-18 VU01-18 12 Waituitui Settlement, Viria, Naitasiri VU06-18 13 Jorim Farm, Navunimono, Verata, Tailevu NU01-18 14 Batilekaleka Naivuruvuru, Verata, Tailevu NU07-18 15 Drodrolagi, Naboutini Village, Serua SE01- Total Central Division 109 896,488.46 1 Kaliova Nadumu, Vatiyaka Road, Ba BA14-18 Western Division 2 Navo Settlement, Nadi 3 Mukesh Kumar, Rarawai, Ba 4 Vatukaka Settlement, Legalega, Nadi 5 Vunaivisere, Denarau Road, Nadi 6 Naviyago and Vitogo Village, Lautoka 7 Inia Rokomatu Korociri, Nadi 8 Bijen Prasad Waimalika, Nadi 9 Iliesa and 2 Others, Lomawai, Sigatoka 10 Gallau Settlement, Rakiraki 11 Olo-Olo, Sigatoka NA18-18 BA07-18 NA07-18 NA19-18 LU12-17 NA22-18 NA27-18 SG09-18 RA87/99 SG15-18 1 2 1 8 6 44 1 1 3 4 8 13,499.01 16,583.27 14,091.09 43,737.09 25,817.38 70,024.77 17,540.70 20,443.43 37,285.62 102,496.00 188,527.83 127 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Scheme No.
No.

of Applicants No.
Scheme Name 12 Korobebe Village, Sabeto, Nadi 13 Lausa Top Hill, Tavua 14 Koronubu, Ba 15 AOG Church and Neorio Raunabila Of Koroua, Kavanagasau Road, Sigatoka 16 Low Voltage Overhead Power Line Exten- sion Sigatoka Valley School Quarters 17 Navuevu Settlement, Sigatoka 18 Iliesa and Veramu, Oloolo, Sigatoka 19 Uciwai, Nadi 20 Sanjay Chand and 4 Others, Nukuloa, Ba NA02-18 TA08-18 BA15-18 SG08-18 SG12-17 SG11-17 SG09-17 NA17-17 BA02-18 21 Low Voltage Line Extension, Tavuto Settle- C15-18 ment, Sigatoka 22 Osonabukete Settlement, Muaivuso, Nadi SU01-15 23 Wairoro Settlement, Lobau, Sigatoka VU04-18 14 4 5 2 1 3 2 7 5 9 17 10 Total Cost 38,070.54 29,793.21 131,390.91 46,205.45 20,243.00 18,862.00 44,872.99 86,995.73 49,208.69 25,715.12 61,667.39 58,740.09 24 Grid Extension to Nalawa District, Nasau, Rakiraki (remaining payment to EFL) RA01-18 600 2,015,071.00 Total Western Division 758 3,176,882.31 Northern Division 1 Nasekawa Settlement, Savusavu 2 Low Voltage Line Extension, Wailevu, SA02-18 C38-18 2 10 57,192.67 52,245.57 Labasa 3 Grid Extension to Lalakoro,Vunimako, LAB07-18 143 2,088,208.00 Rokosalase and Daqau Settlement, Sea- qaqa (remaining payment to EFL) 4 Grid Extension to Welagi to Naselesele Village,Taveuni (remaining payment to EFL) 5 Grid Extension to Naikilikoso, Wainikoro, Labasa (remaining payment to EFL) TAVE05-18 295 1,805,066.00 LAB15-18 102 1,171,800.00 Total Northern Division Total 552 1,419 5,174,512.24 9,247,883 128 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights List of 2019-2020 Areas for the Installation of New Solar Home Systems No.
Community Province Eastern Division Households Estimated Cost ($) 1 Malaka, Vanuabalavu 2 Muamua, Vanuabalavu 3 Mualevu Village School, Vanuabalavu 4 Boitaci, Vanuabalavu 5 Vanuaso District School, Gau 6 Mudu, Koro 7 Naqaidamu Settlement, Koro 8 Namilau Settlement, Nabuna, Koro 9 Nagadro Settlement, Nabuna, Koro 10 Matasawa Settlement, Namuana 11 Lavidi, Nakasaleka 12 Lomanikoro, Nakasaleka 13 Burelevu Settlement, Naceva Sub - Total 1 Wairuarua, Nagonenicolo 2 Nakida 3 Matawailevu 4 Nasava, Wainimala 5 Masi Village and Settlement Sub - Total 1 Qeleni, Taveuni 2 Vione Settlement, Taveuni 3 Waitavala Settlement, Taveuni 4 Waimaqera Settlement, Taveuni 5 Qarawalu, Taveuni 6 Lavena, Taveuni 7 Cogea, Wainunu 8 Nadua Settlement, Nasolo, Nadi 9 Sawani, Nadi 10 Koroinasolo 11 Nadivakarua, Kubulau 12 Waisa, Kubulau 13 Navakasali, Wainunu 14 Namukailau, Dogotuki 15 Lutukina, Dogotuki Lau Lau Lau Lau Lomaiviti Lomaiviti Lomaiviti Lomaiviti Lomaiviti Kadavu Kadavu Kadavu Kadavu Naitasiri Naitasiri Naitasiri Naitasiri Serua Cakaudrove Cakaudrove Cakaudrove Cakaudrove Cakaudrove Cakaudrove Bua Bua Bua Bua Bua Bua Bua Macuata Macuata The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights No.
Community 16 Lagi, Dogotuki 17 Vuniqoliqoli Subdivision, Naravuka Sub - Total 1 Muaira, Naviti, Yasawa 2 Waibasaga Sub - Total Grand Total Province Macuata Macuata Ba Navosa Households Estimated Cost ($) 16 10 484 9 17 26 795 60,800 38,000 1,818,200 34,200 64,600 98,800 3,000,000 130 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights How the 2019-2020 Budget Allocation for Water Authority of Fiji Will Be Spent The total allocation to the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) in the 2019-2020 Budget is $258.7 million, comprising of $88.9 million to cover operating costs and $169.7 million for capital expenditures.
The detailed breakdown of the programmes under the Capital Budget can be found within this informational booklet.

Water Sources and Water Treatment Plants $30,685,223 This project improves and upgrades water treatment plants to increase access to clean, safe and reliable water supplies throughout Fiji.
Package Water Treatment Plants (WTP) Implementation Works ($16,800,000): Capacity Upgrade of Waiwai and Deuba Construction Works ($7,640,814.72); Nagado ($2,301,590.13); Vunidawa ($2,825,440.13); Civil Works for Levuka and Savusavu Package Plants ($2,017,155.02); and Namau and Balevuto ($2,015,000).

Construction of New Tasman Tanks at six sites ($7,600,000) - Phluggers Avenue in Lautoka, Nadi Hospital, Lautoka Hospital, Tacirua East, Tauvegavega in Ba and Lolobalavu in Nadi.
Ongoing Projects ($6,285,223): Nabouwalu Package Plant ($3,185,223.00), Levuka and Savusavu Package Plant ($700,000), New Water Source for Vakaderebua ($500,000), Automation of Nagado ($400,000), Automation of Matovo ($500,000); and Vakaderebua water system ($1,000,000).

131 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Water Distribution System Project $25,182,311 This project increases water distribution infrastructure capacity to meet the growing population’s demand for safe drinking water.
Feasibility Study for System Expansion, Reservoirs and Source Development ($1,450,000): Teidamu and Naliliyaga Sources; Detailed Design of New Reservoirs and Intake Structures ($200,000): Naduri and Malomalo Reservoir; Vatutu and Teidamu Intake Structures; Hydraulic Mains Improvement for the replacement and duplication of aged pipes to reduce head and water loss.

Central/Eastern Division - $1,000,000: Lakena Hill to Verata Village and Naikorokoro to Pacific Fishing Company Limited in Levuka.
Western Division - $1,587,000: Naikabula to Tomuka, Suren Shop in Lautoka, Naseyani, Valele to Rooster Farm.

Critical infrastructure upgrades to ensure that existing water reticulation systems meet current water demand.

The following WAF assets will be upgraded in 2019-2020: Central/Eastern Division - $1,300,000: Mains upgrade for Qaranivalu Road, and RB Patel Nakasi to new Davuilevu sub-division.
Western Division - $1,695,000: New Nawaicoba booster pump, Varaciva raw water main, and Votualevu trunk main replacement.

Northern Division - $1,700,000: Qarawalu and Naselesele borehole, Wainivasa source and Benau to Volanau.

Project Management Cost - $4,210,000: including survey works, environment impact assessment fees, stamp duty fees, administration, support staff and project management monitoring cost.
Upgrading and Maintenance Cost - $3,000,000: this is to cover for all minor upgrade and maintenance works in the three (3) regions.
132 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Rollover Projects ($9,040,311): Extension of water main for Homes of Hope ($150,000), Matalevu ($50,000), Tokoloa ($50,000), Volivoli Phase 1 ($200,000), Keiyasi ($120,846), Benau to Volanau ($1,500,000), Mains upgrading from Lal Singh Road to Rewa Bridge ($1,395,000), Construction of a Dam at Savura Creek ($200,000), Dam collection box and pipe works for Navua system ($250,000), Dam collection box and pipe works for Deuba system ($250,000), Completion of upgrading and replacement of existing trunk mains from Votualevu to Nasau chamber ($300,000), Completion of replacement and upgrading of mPVC outlet from Lawai reservoir to Sigatoka Town ($100,000), Completion of upgrading and replacement of existing raw water trunk main from Varaqe Dam to Saru Water Treatment Plant ($100,000), Chainage zero to Nagado duplicate main feasibility study ($500,000), Pipeline river crossing for Varaqe Dam to Saru WTP ($100,000), Pipeline river crossing for Buabua to Nalau Dam ($300,000), Pipeline river crossing for Varaciva to Waiwai dam ($450,000), Duplication of DN 500 Nadi River crossing ($100,000), 133 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Vaturu Dam aerator and diffuser ($400,000), Feasibility study for the diversion of Tunnel 1 and Pipeline access Tunnel 2 for Vaturu Dam ($700,000), Upgrade of Boubale Reservoir Inlet Mains from Vaturekuka Junction ($500,000), Benau to Rara Reservoir Mains Upgrade (Phase 1) ($500,000), Detailed Design and Build of coffer dam at Waimanu ($250,000), Milverton Road Mains Upgrading ($50,000), Amy Street ($174,465), Ram Sami to Vatuyalewa Extension Project ($100,000), Toorak Reservoir to Mark Street Junction Mains Relocation and Upgrading ($150,000), Waimanu Road Mains Relocation (St Joseph Secondary School to CWM Hospital) ($100,000).
Integrated Meter Management $2,000,000 This project replaces defective meters nationwide to reduce billing errors and improve water meter accuracy.

Meter Replacement Programme - Central Division ($200,000), Western Division ($100,000), and Northern Division ($100,000).

Electromagnetic Flow (EMF) Meters, Domestic Meter Purchase and Remote Terminal Units (RTU) – $1,000,000.

Lockable Valve Purchases - $500,000.

Project Management Cost - $100,000.


134 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Non-Revenue Water Reduction Project $4,150,000 This project is aimed at fixing water leakages throughout the WAF systems.

Geographic Information System (GIS) Programme ($500,000) - Project Management Cost ($100,000); GIS Tools and Equipment ($140,000); Aerial Survey ($180,000); verification, capturing and plant hire ($80,000).

Water and Wastewater modelling - $900,000.

Leak reduction programme - $1,000,000.


Service pipe replacements - $500,000.

Boundary valve replacement - $375,000.

Air valve installation - $375,000.

Air pressure management programme - $500,000.

Water Catchment Management Programme $900,000 This project undertakes surveys of all water catchments.

Catchment Acquisition Programme - $500,000: Central/Eastern Division ($300,000), Western Division ($100,000); and Northern Division ($100,000).
Water Source Management which includes the Hydrological Monitoring and Hazard Assessment ($100,000) at the following water sources: Namau, Soa in Ra, Dakuivuna, Dobuilevu, Viria, Waimanu Pump Station, Upper Waimanu, Vago (Gauge Installation), Waila Pump Station, Navuloa, Vunidawa, Waitavala, Lekutu, Waisasa, Wainivasa Taveuni, Matani, Nukubolu, Savusavu, Bucalevu, Somosomo, Mua, Waiyevo, Vunika, Taganikula, Nabouwalu, Nawetavuni, Waikubukubu, Biausevu, Nawaka, Nadelei, Naseyani, Varaqe and Teidamu.
Environmental Investigation and Assessment ($100,000).

Water Safety and Quality Programme ($200,000).

135 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Wastewater Treatment Plant $10,500,000 This project upgrades wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) to enable increased waste treatment capacity to match the extensive work carried out on sewer line extensions.

Wastewater Master planning for Nadi-Lautoka, Ba Wastewater Systems ($300,000).
Design works for Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades, Natabua and Namara WWTP ($700,000).

Desludging works at Olosara, Natabua, Navakai and Votua WWTP ($700,000).

Adi Cakobau School (ACS) Reticulation Pump and Structure ($100,000).

Project Management Costs ($600,000).

Kinoya WWTP Works including consolidation works ($5,100,000).

Trickling Filter Arm Replacement ($500,000).


Rollover Projects ($2,500,000): Consolidation Works - WWTP urgent building and plants refurbishment works in ACS, Deuba, Naboro, Wailada, Nadali, Olosara and Votua ($400,000); Septic waste treatment facility in Sigatoka, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba and Labasa ($350,000); upgrade works of Wastewater treatment plant for Navakai ($1,000,000); and feasibility study of new Treatment Plants: Navua ($150,000), Tavua ($250,000), Korovou ($250,000), Levuka ($100,000).
Improvement and Upgrade of Wastewater $10,317,863 Distribution System This project extends wastewater reticulation coverage to new areas.

Detailed Design works for sewer coverage extension: Rewa Street ($200,000), Ratu Mara Road ($200,000), Kinoya ($200,000).

Walu Bay Sewer Pipe Bridge ($2,150,000).

Extension of Sewer Coverage for Grantham ($2,000,000), Nabukalou ($1,000,000), and Damanu to Namara ($150,000).

Project Management Cost ($700,100).


Rollover Projects ($3,717,763): Waste Water System Extension (Formal Settlements): Grantham Road ($2,367,763), Vatulaulau ($300,000), Tauvegavega ($300,000), Ba Prison Compound ($100,000), Yahala, Sigatoka (300,000), Ba Industrial ($200,000), and Nasoso ($150,000).

136 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Relocation of Existing Water and Wastewater $1,000,000 Pipeline along FRA Road Works Suva Road Upgrading Project (SARUP) - Suva 2B - $350,000.
Minor Road rehabilitation works - $500,000.

Pipe realignment along bridges - $150,000.

Emergency Response Contingency $2,300,000 Funding for immediate repair and rehabilitation works during and after natural disasters ($2.0 million).

Ongoing Projects ($300,000): Upgrade of Matovo Intake Structure and three (3) existing galleries.

Electrical Upgrading Project $8,690,000 This project installs new generators at WAF depots and also upgrades the switchboard system.

New Generator Installations ($1,040,000).


Power Factor Installation ($530,000).

Switch Board Upgrades for Water and Wastewater Stations ($1,320,000).

Mechanical Installation ($1,300,000).

Rollover Projects: New Generator Installations ($4,500,000).

Information Communication Technology $1,000,000 Infrastructure Upgrades Network Infrastructure ($250,000).

System Infrastructure ($100,000).

Software and Security Infrastructure ($250,000).

End User Infrastructure ($250,000).


Project Management Cost ($150,000).

137 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights WAF Facilities Upgrade $500,000 Covers the cost of refurbishing WAF quarters, depots and offices to improve customer service.

Upgrade of WAF Depots ($250,000): Wailoku Depot ($150,000); Rewa Depot ($50,000); and Rakiraki Depot ($50,000).

Staff quarters renovation ($250,000): Savura ($79,500); Labasa ($79,500); and Vatunibale ($91,000).
New Office Equipment $300,000 The following equipment will be procured to improve efficiency and productivity of operations: Office equipment ($100,000).

Tools and equipment ($100,000).

OHS equipment ($100,000).

Rural Water Carting to Non-Metered Areas $5,000,000 The project covers water carting to rural and maritime areas.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems Subsidy $3,000,000 Funds cover the subsidy (70%) for rainwater harvesting systems in rural and peri-urban areas.
138 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Urban Water Supply and Wastewater $52,946,248 Management Project The project is designed to improve vital urban infrastructure and services to support the rapid growth and development in the Greater Suva Area by increasing water supply capacity by 26% and wastewater treatment capacity by 164%.
The project will also support the WAF’s efforts to improve operational efficiency and the quality of services delivered by enhancing programmes in non-revenue water reduction, water demand management and liquid trade waste management.

As part of the project, a new 40ML of treatment plant will be constructed in Viria, Rewa.
Funding is supplied by Asian Development Bank - $13,512,616 Green Climate Fund - $13,311,721 European Investment Bank - $5,453,499 Local Funding - $20,668,412 139 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Rural Water Supply Programme $11,250,000 Rural Water Schemes: Central Division ($1,594,222), Eastern Division ($1,941,254), Western Division ($1,473,369), Northern Division ($2,377,823).
Division Number of Rural Water Cost ($) Population to Benefit Projects Summary of 2019- 2020 Rural Water Projects Central Eastern Western Northern Total 10 9 7 6 32 1,594,222 1,941,254 1,473,369 2,377,823 7,386,668 2,173 1,762 2,676 1,800 8,411 Maintenance of existing Ecological Purification System (EPS) - $300,000.

Project Management Cost - $413,332.

Rural Boreholes - $100,000.

Viwa Island Desalination - $12,686.

Vanuavatu Island Desalination - $14,087.

Kavewa Island Desalination - $11,914.


Kia Island Desalination - $11,313.

Rollover Projects: Rural Water Supply - $3,000,000.

140 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights No.
Scheme Tailevu 2019-2020 Rural Water Schemes Estimated Cost Population to ($) Benefit Central Region 1 Drekeniwai Settlement, Nasaibitu Village 2 Vatukarasa Village 3 Nailega District School Naitasiri 4 Nakorovou Village 5 Nawaqabena Village 6 Sawanikula Village Namosi 7 Waikasanaura Settlement, Wainadoi, Veivatuloa 8 Navunibau Settlement Serua 9 Nakorovou Village 10 Waibogi Village Sub Total Central Kadavu 11 Naqalotu Village 12 Nasau Village 13 Lavidi Village, Nakasaleka Lomaiviti 14 Gau Secondary School 15 Bureta Village 16 Nabasovi Village Lau 17 Nuku Village, Moala 18 Masomo Settlement 19 Yasana-i-Rara District School Sub Total Eastern Ba 20 Yasawairara Village, Yasawa 21 Bukama Village, Yasawa Eastern Region Western Division The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights No.
Scheme Nadroga Estimated Cost Population to ($) Benefit 22 Tubairata Village, Mavua 23 Mavua Village and Settlement Farms 24 Tagaqe Village and School Ra 299,980 298,336 170,669 25 Nasau Village, Health Center and Nasau District 347,128 School 26 Fulton Primary School Total Western Division Northern Division Cakaudrove 27 Nakasa Combine Scheme 28 Vidawa Joint Scheme, Taveuni Macuata 29 Nawiwi Combine Scheme 30 Waivurevure Village Bua 31 Vuniuto Village, Nasarawaqa 32 Votua Combine Scheme Total Northern Total New Rural Water Projects 161,906 1,473,369 853,644 140,370 195,569 102,567 712,608 373,065 2,377,823 7,386,668 410 370 310 600 400 2,676 250 120 160 50 320 900 1,800 8,411 142 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights How the 2019-2020 Budget Allocation for Fiji Roads Authority Will Be Spent The total allocation to the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) in the 2019-2020 Budget is $419.4 million, comprising of $19.7 million for operating costs and $399.8 million for capital expenditures.
The detailed breakdown of the programmes under the Capital Budget can be found within this informational booklet.

Maintenance Programme carries programme This The breakdown of the 2019-2020 budget is shown below.

out maintenance on $60,000,000 the overall road network.
Central Western Northern Maritime Suva Sub- Division Sealed Roads Footpaths Drainage Navua Sub- Division Sealed Roads Footpaths Drainage Korovou Sub- Division Sealed Roads Footpaths Drainage Rewa Sub- Division Sealed Roads Footpaths Drainage Highways Nadi Sub- Division 3,500,000 Sealed Roads 2,500,000 Labasa Sub- Division Sealed Roads 2,500,000 All Regions Sealed Roads Footpaths 300,000 Footpaths 500,000 300,000 Drainage 500,000 Drainage 1,000,000 Footpaths 1,000,000 Drainage Sigatoka Sub- Division 980,000 Sealed Roads 300,000 Footpaths 200,000 Drainage Ba Sub-Division Savusavu Sub- Division Sealed Roads 1,500,000 300,000 Footpaths 500,000 Drainage Nabouwalu Sub-Division 500,000 Sealed Roads Footpaths 250,000 100,000 Drainage 1,000,000 Sealed Roads 200,000 Footpaths 200,000 Drainage Rakiraki Sub- Division 1,500,000 Sealed Roads 250,000 Footpaths 100,000 Drainage 9,680,000 Taveuni Sub- Division Sealed Roads 500,000 100,000 Footpaths 50,000 7,450,000 Drainage 143 750,000 400,000 200,000 500,000 100,000 50,000 300,000 100,000 50,000 5,950,000 500,000 50,000 50,000 600,000 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Unsealed Roads Maintenance (including vegetation control/signs/railings) Suva Sub-Division 2,000,000 Nadi Sub- 2,000,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 1,500,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 5,500,000 Suva Sub-Division 100,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 100,000 100,000 100,000 Suva Sub-Division 700,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 200,000 200,000 200,000 Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division 1,000,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division 1,500,000 Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 500,000 1,500,000 All Regions 1,030,000 1,000,000 500,000 500,000 5,000,000 3,500,000 1,030,000 100,000 100,000 Bridge
 Inspection and Audit Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 100,000 100,000 Bridge Maintenance 700,000 300,000 300,000 200,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 150,000 All Regions 5,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 500,000 All Regions 50,000 200,000 100,000 100,000 1,700,000 1,900,000 1,350,000 55,000 Crossing Inspection and Audit Suva Sub-Division 50,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 50,000 50,000 50,000 Suva Sub-Division 400,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division 400,000 400,000 Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 50,000 All Regions 5,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 500,000 All Regions 50,000 500,000 500,000 Crossing Maintenance 500,000 500,000 500,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division 144 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Rewa Sub- Division 400,000 Rakiraki Sub- Division 500,000 Taveuni Sub- Division 1,800,000 2,200,000 500,000 2,200,000 55,000 Suva Sub-Division 50,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 50,000 50,000 50,000 Suva Sub-Division 500,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 400,000 400,000 500,000 Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division 50,000 50,000 Jetty Inspection and Audit Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 50,000 50,000 Jetty Maintenance 500,000 500,000 500,000 400,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 2,000,000 2,100,000 Coastal Protection Inspection and Audit Suva
 Sub-Division 10,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 10,000 10,000 10,000 Suva Sub-Division 210,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 100,000 100,000 100,000 550,000 Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division Coastal Protection Maintenance Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division 500,000 500,000 500,000 500,000 2,200,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division Suva Sub-Division 50,000 Navua Sub- Division 10,000 Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division 20,000 Electrical Inspection and Audit Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division 20,000 145 50,000 All Regions 5,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 100,000 All Regions 50,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 600,000 55,000 10,000 All Regions 5,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 100,000 All Regions 50,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 440,000 55,000 10,000 All Regions 0 10,000 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division 10,000 Ba Sub-Division 10,000 10,000 Rakiraki Sub- Division 10,000 Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 10,000 10,000 100,000 All Regions 50,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 440,000 50,000 14,480,000 0 1,900,000 Suva Sub-Division 300,000 Nadi Sub- Division Sigatoka Sub- Division Ba Sub-Division Rakiraki Sub- Division Electrical Maintenance 300,000 300,000 100,000 100,000 Labasa Sub- Division Savusavu Sub- Division Nabouwalu Sub-Division Taveuni Sub- Division 100,000 100,000 100,000 Navua Sub- Division Korovou Sub- Division Rewa Sub- Division Total 680,000 21,910,000 860,000 21,710,000 146 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Renewals & Replacements - Roads and Services $36,060,930 This programme regularly renews and replaces existing road assets.
Suva Sub-Division ($14.6 million) o Second Coat Sealing - $2,285,161 o Resealing - $2,006,553 Asphalt (Mill & Fill City Center Streets - Pratt, Renwick, Suva, Toorak, High , Spring Street & Mark Street - $2,450,577 Sealed Road Rehabilitation (up to 20km) - $3,276,577 Unsealed Road Rehabilitation (up to 35km) - $2,632,817 Unsealed Road Resheeting (up to 40km) - $1,935,318 Northern Division ($6.0 million) Second Coat Sealing - $678,248 Sealed Road Rehabilitation (asphalt) - $1,257,373 Unsealed Road Rehabilitation (up to 40km) - $1,913,864 Unsealed Road Resheeting (up to 40km) - $2,143,296 Western Division ($9.6 million) Second Coat Sealing - $999,999 Mill & Fill City Center Streets - $2,009,830 Sealed Road Rehabilitation (up to 7km) - Seal Extension - $2,009,830 Unsealed Road Resheeting (up to 40km) - $4,577,033 147 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Maritime Islands ($5.9 million) o Resealing (up to 40km) - $40,733 o Sealed Road Rehabilitation (up to 7km) - Seal Extension - $451,475 o Unsealed Road Rehabilitation (up to 40km) - $1,906,226 o Unsealed Road Resheeting (up to 40km) - $3,235,201 o Drainage (adjacent all road renewals project works) - $250,819 148 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Upgrading and Replacement of Bridges & Crossings $62,374,125 This programme regularly renews and replaces existing bridges and crossings.
Ongoing projects ($62,374,125): o Central Division ($27,098,674) – Waidalice, Kings Road ($6,933,211); FRA 18/22 Tamavua-i-Wai Bridge ($14,449,006); Modular Bridges Package 1 FRA 17-120A Toga ($2,719,457) and FRA 17-120B Vorovoro ($2,997,000).

o Western Division ($12,313,673) - Vutuna, Korovou, Maururu ($10,001,607); FRA 17/17: Western Bridge Maintenance ($1,004,683); Modular Bridges Package 2 FRA 17/122A: Balenabelo and Navaga ($538,060); FRA 17-122B – Naseyani ($769,323).
o Northern Division ($18,774,823) – FRA 18/52: Korovuli, Nakasava, Korovula, Vesidrua ($16,984,851); Modular Bridges Package 3 (Northern Division) - FRA 17/124: Nayarabale ($1,155,498) and Vunikawakawa ($634,474).

o Western Division Low Level Crossing Package 2 - FRA 17/123: Vutuni 3, Mia Mahajan, Wailoko ($1,476,500).

o Northern Division Low Level Crossing Package 3 - FRA 17/125: Naiyarabale, Waibula, Taqaniwaqa, Naviavia ($1,163,481).

o Nakorotari Crossing ($1,546,974).


Jetties Maintenance and Renewals $1,401,705 This programme regularly renews and replaces existing jetty assets.
Ongoing project - design for six (6) island jetties at Koro, Makogai, Moala, Nabukeru, Wainiyabia and Vunisea 2 ($1,401,705) Upgrading of Rural Roads Programme $52,301,932 Ongoing Projects Central Division - $17,904,530 o Beqa Steep Hill ($4,000,000) o Nukusere - Namuamua Nakavu Access Road ($4,690,909) 149 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Wainiyavu - Wainilotulevu ($2,000,000) Vuniduba Circular Road ($2,817,180) Kiuva - Kaba Peninsula Road ($1,651,666) Wainivesi & Wainivilimi Road ($986,426) Rewa - Vutia Road Design ($1,758,349) Western Division - $12,341,869 Naunuku - Nalotawa Access Road ($2,583,333) Nasatogo - Navitilevu Village Access Road ($2,411,111) Matokana Village Road, Stage 2 ($1,882,250) Traction sealing on Nadarivatu Road ($1,915,000) FRA 17/108 Western Roads ($3,550,175) Northern Division - $14,701,036 Niurua - Raviravi Stage 2 & Crossings ($2,560,446) Qelemumu Basoga ($1,031,529) Naviqiri, Nasau Naivaka Road ($2,728,092) Nasealevu - Vuiraqilai Road ($2,607,218) Viani Lea Road ($2,359,836) Nasasa - Nacula - Lakeba Road – Stage 1 ($2,500,000) Lagi - Duavata Village Access Road ($913,915) Maritime Division - $7,354,496 Rotuma Farm Roads ($2,871,741) Vunisea - Vacalea, Kadavu ($2,052,467) Yawe District Road, Section 2, Kadavu ($2,430,288) 150 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Capital Community Programme $33,510,859 The project covers work to improve the safety of pedestrians and travellers in communities on the outskirts of developed areas.
Ongoing construction of footpaths ($32,820,543) o Northern Division - $643,745 o Central Division - $1,769,498 o Additional 14 sites (35km) for footpaths in the Western Division ($19,407,300) - Andrews Street; Raniga Street; Saweni Street; Sigatoka Town – Highway to Hospital; Sigatoka Town Bridge to School; Rifle Range, Lautoka; Field 40, Lautoka; Banaras/Topline/Tavakubu Road, Lautoka; Simla; Lautoka Central Business District; Natabua, Navutu, Nadovu, Lautoka; Yalalevu, Kings Road (Moto Yaketi Road to Chatur Singh Road to Ba Muslim Primary School); Tavua Central Business District, Kings Road (Tavua College to Bridge); and Rakiraki Town to Rakiraki Hospital (Korotale Road to Hospital).
Additional 17 sites (20km) for footpaths in the Central Division ($11.0 million) - Beaumont Road, Narere; Omkar Road, Narere; Vishnu Deo Road, Nakasi; Naulu Road, Nakasi; Nakasi Road - Kings Road Junction; Dilo Street, Nakasi; Yaro Road to Vavalagi Road Junction, Nakasi Road; Niudrau Road to Niuleka Road, Nakasi; Niuleka Road to Nakasi Road); Kalokalo Crescent Road to Matanikorovatu Road Junction, Makoi; Matanikorovatu Road to Hanson Supermarket, Makoi; Nasinu Road to Daniva Road Junction, Valelevu; Boila Road, Valelevu; Daniva Road, Nasinu Road Junction to Daniva Road, Valelevu; Kanace Road, Valelevu; Saqa Road, Valelevu; and Wainibuku Road.
Ongoing construction of bus shelters ($690,316) Construction of 84 urban bus shelters - $690,316 151 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Streetlight Improvement Programme $8,667,712 The objective of the project is to create more secure society by improving visibility for drivers and making streets safer to walk at night.

Street lighting provides a feeling of assurance, it beautifies Fijian streets and communities, and allows business to operate during the evening hours.
Vanua Levu Streetlighting programme from Labasa to Savusavu - $1,645,037 New streetlights ($2,676,437) – Central Division: Suva Central Business District, Nausori- Suva Corridor, Suva urban ($1,051,101), Western Division: Lautoka Central Business District, Lautoka Urban, Nadi Urban, Sigatoka Central Business District, Ba Central Business District, Tavua Central Business District & Vatukoula ($1,155,244), and Northern Division: Labasa Central Business District, Labasa Urban & Savusavu Central Business District ($470,092) Solar Streetlighting (Central Division) - $864,404 Upgrade of 36 traffic signals ($3,481,834) – Central Division ($1,790,826), Western Division ($1,250,642) and Northern Division ($440,366).
Congestion and Capacity Improvements Programme $26,425,775 This programme contains projects aimed at easing congestion and increasing the capacity of current road systems.

Queen Elizabeth Drive road upgrading project - $25.0 million.

Vuci Road drainage upgrade including footpath and bus bays - $1,425,775.
Nasoso Junction to Lautoka Four Laning Road Upgrading Project The objective of the project is to construct a four lane road from Nasoso Junction to Lautoka to improve the travel time between this corridor.

The project is expected to be climate-resilient, and where possible, electricity cables will be placed underground.

$5,000,000 East Bank of Sigatoka Valley Road Upgrading Project $1,000,000 The project aims to improve access for rural Fijians to markets and pave the way for better development.
Preliminary works (investigation, scoping and design) for tarsealing of East Bank of Sigatoka Valley Road - $1.0 million 152 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Transport Infrastructure Investment Sector Project $113,018,240 The project aims to rehabilitate roads, bridges and rural jetties.

The project has two outputs: (i) rehabilitated and climate-resilient land and maritime transport infrastructure, and (ii) efficient project management support and institutional strengthening.
The project is financed through an Asian Development Bank loan (60%) of US$100 million and World Bank loan (30%) of US$50 million and counterpart financing by the Government of Fiji (10%).

The breakdown of the 2019-2020 allocation of $113,018,240 by financier are as follows: Government of Fiji - $14,018,240 (includes $3,018,240 of rollover for SARUP 2 from 2018- 2019 financial year); Asian Development Bank - $66.0 million; and World Bank - $33.0 million.
The funding will be allocated towards the following programmes: Reseals 3 Years FRA/TIISP/16-03 - $3,442,197 Variation 3 Year reseals - $9,000,000 SARUP 2 - $63,173,330 Kings Road Rehabilitation - $12,122,713 Design for Sections between Suva to Tavua Road - $5,000,000 Taveuni Bridges - $7,200,000 Ovalau Bridges - $4,080,000 Rabaraba and Solovi 1 & 2 - $4,000,000 Design for Jetties - Nabouwalu, Natovi and Savusavu - $5,000,000 153 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Revenue Policies Building on a legacy of consistent responsible financial management, the Fijian Government is focussed on setting a sustainable course for Fiji’s development despite a slowing global economy.
We’re laying out a range of new policies that support our people, our businesses and our development partners to step-up their participation in the economy and take advantage of the positive projections for Fiji’s economic growth in the years ahead.

The 2019-2020 Budget revenue policies are designed to stimulate the Fijian economy and ensure necessary revenue generation for the Government.
The overall essence of the revenue policies is to maintain low and competitive tax rates to promote investment and create new employment, simplify revenue administration, improve tax and customs compliance, and promote environment protection initiatives.

In this Budget, major taxes are kept unchanged and an array of new and innovative tax incentives has been unveiled.

The list of major 2019-2020 Budget revenue policies are outlined below.
(Unless otherwise specified, excise tax, fiscal import duty and import excise duty changes listed below are effective from 7 June 2019, while all other tax changes will be effective from 1 August 2020.)

Major Income Tax Policy Changes Tax Deduction for Fiji National Provided Employer Contribution - The tax deduction allowed for FNPF contributions by employers will be increased from 50% to 100%.
This will provide a significant financial boost to businesses, enabling them to claim the full amount incurred on FNPF employer contribution for tax purposes.

Loss Carry Forward - The Loss Carry Forward provision will be extended from four years to eight years to grant financial reprieve to struggling businesses.

This will be applicable to new losses incurred in and after Tax Year 2019.
Export Income Deduction - The Export Income Deduction of 50% will be re-introduced with retrospective application from 2018 and maintained for three years until 2020.

Aimed at fostering Fijian exports and foreign exchange earnings, this incentive provides tax exemption on 50% of export income to exporters.
Tax Exemption on Interest Earned on Government securities and Government Guaranteed Securities – To encourage individuals and private entities to participate in the capital market, a tax exemption will be provided on interest earned from Government, State-Owned Entities and Statutory Authorities financial instruments (bonds, treasury bills and promissory notes).
154 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Exemption of Stamp Duties on Offshore Borrowings – To lower the costs of foreign borrowing, stamp duties levied on all offshore borrowing transactions will be removed with the requirement that funds are brought into Fiji.

Taxation and Customs Incentives Tax incentive for Retirement Villages and Aged Care Facilities - In the 2019-2020 Budget, a new incentive package for investments in retirement villages and aged care facilities has been introduced.
The package will cater for low to medium as well as high-end retiree facility investment.

Investors in this sector will benefit based on their investment level as shown below.

In addition, fiscal import duty on raw materials, plant, machinery and equipment (including spare parts) required for the establishment of the business will be exempted.
Investment Level $250,000 - $1,000,000 $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 More than $2,000,000 Tax Holiday 5 Years 7 Years 13 Years Incentives for New and Existing Hotels - The current duty exemption available under the Short Life Investment Package (SLIP) incentive on the importation of capital equipment, plant and machinery will be extended to include building materials, furnishings and fittings, equipment, room amenities, kitchen and dining room equipment and utensils, and specialised water sports equipment.
For hotels not under SLIP (new and existing), fiscal duty on the importation of capital equipment, plant and machinery, building materials, furnishings and fittings, equipment, room amenities, kitchen and dining room equipment and utensils, and specialised water sports equipment will be reduced to 5% for all items with a fiscal duty above 5% and to 3% for all items currently attracting 5%.
Incentives for Construction of Warehouses - Government is encouraging investment in the business of warehousing and storage facilities given the increasing business needs as the Fijian economy expands.

For companies engaging in warehousing business, income tax exemption will be provided based on the capital investment levels given below.

In addition, fiscal import duty on raw materials, plant, machinery and equipment (including spare parts) required for the establishment of the business will be exempted.
Investment Level $250,000 - $1,000,000 $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 More than $2,000,000 Tax Holiday 5 Years 7 Years 13 Years For existing companies engaged in any business investing in warehouses, a 50% investment allowance will be available for capital investment not less than $1 million and a 100% investment allowance for capital investment not less than $2 million.
155 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Incentive for Renovations of Commercial Buildings – Last year, the Government introduced a 25% allowance for building owners who spend at least $1 million on the refurbishment of their buildings, provided owners utilised a green technology, such as solar panelling, enabled access to buildings for Fijians living with disabilities, such as a wheelchair ramp to the doorway, and installed lighting on the exterior of the building that helps illuminate up our streets.
This year, the investment threshold will be lowered from $1 million to $250,000 - giving smaller businesses and business owners the chance to make similar investments that beautify the nation, while making businesses greener and more inclusive for all Fijians.

Private Public Partnership (PPP) on Rental Housing - Any private sector business investing in a multi-unit rental housing development will be granted an income tax holiday for the duration of the PPP Agreement.
Incentive for residential housing – To encourage the development and construction of residential housing, the following incentives will be introduced: Income Tax (Residential Housing Development Package) Regulations 2016 will be amended to provide clarification on a ceiling on the sale price of residential housing, ensuring affordable housing options to the average Fijian home buyer.

The incentive will only be available to multi-storey development with the following conditions.
Each storey is to have at least 15% units below the price ceiling of $300,000 (this requirement only applies to the first 5 floors of the development.

The incentive will also be available for a ground level multi-unit housing developments.

The following incentives will be available: Income tax exemption on developer profits for the entire project.

Import duty exemption on the importation of capital equipment, plant and machinery.
Subsidy on the proportion of capital investment incurred for the development of the housing units at the following rates: Less than $100,000– 7%, $100,000 to $200,000 – 5%, and $200,000 to $300,000 – 3%.

Incentive Package for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing - To promote investment in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, Income tax exemption will be granted to businesses investing in pharmaceutical manufacturing based on investment levels given in the table below.
In addition, fiscal import duty on raw materials, plant, machinery and equipment (including spare parts) required for the establishment of the business will be exempted.

This incentive will also be available to existing businesses in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

The fiscal importation of ethanol by manufacturers of import duty and pharmaceutical supplies will be reduced to zero.
import excise on the 156 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Investment Level $250,000 - $1,000,000 $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 More than $2,000,000 Tax Holiday 5 Years 7 Years 13 years ICT Incentives – Government had introduced a 13 year tax holiday for ICT investments.

To make this incentive more attractive and promote investments in the ICT sector, the conditions of employing a minimum of 50 employees and exporting 60% of the services to qualify for the ICT incentive will be removed.
The annual licence fee of $1,000 will also be removed.

Film Tax Rebate - The film industry has been growing rapidly in Fiji, largely owed to the lucrative incentives set by the Fijian Government.

Recent years saw a boom in the industry, with large – scale, world renowned productions filmed in Fiji, such as the Survivor series (four seasons) and Wrecked.

All other major productions are already in the pipeline.
The film tax rebate will be increased from 47% to 75% and will be now based only on expenditure incurred in Fiji.

A 200% deduction will be available to companies investing in cameras and other filming equipment for audio visual productions.

A new seven-year tax holiday will be available to companies who set up production facilities, including equipment, cameras, editing and post production studios.
Incentive for Waste Management - To promote safer and environmentally friendlier waste management initiatives, the incentives in the table below have been introduced to benefit any company engaged in waste recycling business in Naboro.

In addition, fiscal import duty on raw the materials, plant, machinery and equipment (including spare parts) required establishment of the business will be exempted.
for Investment Level $250,000 - $1,000,000 $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 More than $2,000,000 Tax Holiday 5 Years 7 Years 13 years Incentive for Sports Sponsorship - The minimum cash contribution towards the Sports Fund to qualify for 150% tax deduction has been reduced from $50,000 to $15,000.

This is to make the incentive more attractive and inclusive of minor sports.
Other Major Tax Changes Environment Policy Initiatives - The plastic bag levy applicable on plastics with handles was introduced at a rate of 10 cents per bag in the 2017-2018 Budget and applied at all entities with Point of Sale Systems effective from 1 August 2017.

The Levy is not imposed on a manufacturer, wholesaler or retailer of plastic bags.
In the 2018-2019 Budget, there was a further increase in plastic bag levy to 20 cents per bag and it was also announced that single use plastics will be banned in Fiji from 2020.

Further measures introduced in the 2019-2020 Budget are given below: 157 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights The plastic levy will be increased from 20 cents to 50 cents on LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) plastic bags effective from 1 January 2020.
Fiscal import duty on non-woven bags will be increased from 15% to 32%.

Fiscal import duty on biodegradable kitchenware and tableware will be reduced from 32% to 0%.

Fiscal import duty on biodegradable and environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals and detergents will be reduced from 32% to 0%.
A 10% Environment Climate Adaptation Levy (ECAL) will be imposed on the importation of the following goods: smart phones; air conditioners; freezer/refrigerator; television; washing machines; dryers; dishwashers; electric stoves; microwaves; and electric lawn mowers.

A 10% ECAL will also be imposed on importation of vehicles (the rates are detailed in Transportation Tax Measures section).
Motor Vehicle Fiscal Import Duty Structure - The significant increase in vehicle ownership in Fiji over the years has been attributed to lower fiscal import duties on hybrid cars and new non- hybrid cars, which also led to increased socio-economic status of Fijians and contributed to strong economic growth.

While the desired policy goals may have achieved, it has also presented many new challenges, such as serious traffic congestions and high risk of accidents.
These have increasingly disrupted productivity and made road upgrade works very challenging.

The tariff on new hybrid cars has remained at zero for a long time, while a small fixed duty on used hybrid cars was introduced two years ago.

To control the flow of vehicle numbers into Fiji, there will be higher fiscal import duties, and ECAL will be imposed on hybrid cars as shown in the table below.
Cylinder Capacity Description New Duty New Less than 1,500 cc Used 1,500 cc to 2,500 New cc Used 2,500 cc to 3,000 New Used cc exceeding 3,000 New cc Used Free $4,000 per unit Free $5,000 per unit Free $6,000 per unit Free $13,000 per unit 158 ECAL 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% No additional ECAL (10% ECAL already in place) VAT 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights Likewise, to preserve and maintain the preferential tariff difference the following tax structure will be applied to importation of non-hybrid cars.
The import excise rate will be reduced from 15% to 5% and a 10% ECAL will be introduced on non-hybrid vehicles.

The tax burden will remain the same.
Cylinder Capacity Description New Duty Less than 1,000 cc 1,000 cc to 1,500 cc 1,500 cc to 2,500 cc 2,500 cc to 3,000 cc exceeding 3,000 cc New Used New Used New Used New Used New Used 15% 32% or $7,000/unit 15% 32% or $11,500/unit 15% 32% or $16,000/unit 32% 32% or $23,000/unit 32% 32% or $28,500/unit Other Key Transport Measures - New Excise 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 15% 15% ECAL VAT 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% 9% Heavy machinery, as per Chapter 84 of the Customs Tariff, will be subjected to the following import taxes: Description Current Fiscal Import Duty Current Import Excise New Fiscal Import Duty New Import Excise New Used 5% 15% 5% Free 5% 5% Free 5% To promote usage of trucks primarily used to transport goods, particularly in the agriculture or wholesale and distribution sectors, the following import taxes will be applied to vehicles classified under heading 8704 of the Customs Tariff Act: Fiscal import duty on trucks primarily used for the transport and delivery of goods will be reduced; All new vehicles under Chapter 8704 of the Customs Tariff including new cab and chassis trucks, new dumper trucks for highway use, new refuse collectors, etc.
which currently have fiscal import duty at a rate of 15%, will be reduced to 5%, and with import excise rates ranging from 5% to 15% will be reduced to 0 percent.

This will exclude dual purpose (twin cab) vehicles; All used vehicles under Chapter 8704 of the Customs Tariff, including cab and chassis 159 The Fijian Government | 2019 - 2020 Budget Highlights trucks, new dumper trucks for highway use, new refuse collectors, etc.
which currently have a rate of 32% fiscal import duty and import excise of will be reduced to 15%, and also import excise at a rate of 15% will be reduced to 0%.

The specific rates of duty will be reduced by 50%.

This will exclude dual purpose (twin cab) vehicles; and The age limit requirement on used vehicles used for transporting of goods will be removed.

The vehicle will have to be Euro 4 compliant.

VAT on importation on hybrid and electric ship will be exempted.
To encourage the shift in transportation modes, thereby reducing traffic congestion, fiscal import duty on bicycle and motor cycle tyres will be reduced from 5% to 0%.

Other Tax Measures Other import tax measures include: The fiscal import duty on soap noodles will be reduced to 0%.

The fiscal Import duty on cane knives will decrease from 5% to 0%.

The fiscal import duties on batteries for laptop, tablets, cellular mobile phone and power banks will be decreased from 32% to 5%.
Import taxes on wind driven ventilators will be reduced as follows: import fiscal duty from 15% to 0%.

Import excise on importation of chicken will be increased from 0% to 10%.

The fiscal import duty on wheeled trolleys will be reduced from 15% to 5%.

160 Ministry of Economy Ro Lalabalavu House 370 Victoria Parade, Suva P.O.

Box 2212, Government Buildings, Suva, Fiji Tele: (679) 330 7011, Fax: (679) 330 0834 Website: www.economy.gov.fj Email: EconomyInformation@economy.gov.fj