Effective
outreach

0
Men and Women

Net additional
income

$0

Private Sector
Investment leveraged

$0

Value of additional
market transactions

$0

Climate Change

Fiji is vulnerable to climate change. The rising frequency of extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods and droughts are a threat to Fiji’s infrastructure, economic growth and societal well-being. In 2024, agriculture was disrupted by prolonged rains and floods in March and December. Marine heat waves and extreme weather damaged natural attractions and infrastructure, affecting tourism.

MDF focused on co-investing in climate change adaptation and mitigation solutions and reduced climate-related losses in agriculture and urban industries. In tourism, MDF supported FHTA to research sustainability practices of tourism operators, with the aim of developing environment-related standards. In agriculture, MDF promoted organic fertiliser distribution and consulted with ACIAR and CSIRO on plant health, soil management and agricultural technology. In urban industries, MDF developed its new green energy portfolio, with electric vehicle leasing trials and research on the demand for rooftop solar energy systems.

A sketch of the dreamy coastline of Fiji with coconut trees and resort chairs.
An artist impression of solar panels sketched.

Climate Change Quick Fact

Fiji needs FJD4 billion (AUD2.7 billion) in investments between 2024 and 2036 to achieve its 100% renewable energy target.
Currently, approximately
60% of Fiji’s electricity is generated from renewable sources, primarily hydro.

Inclusion

MDF’s strategy and focus were guided by the priorities of the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership, which emphasises economic diversification in tourism, agriculture, outsourcing, MSME development and green energy, and Fiji’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2025-2029. The NDP is centred on improving social well-being and achieving sustainable prosperity for Fijians. It also focuses on environmental protection, climate change mitigation and developing a sustainable renewable energy sector. It emphasises sustainable management of natural resources, including non-sugar crops and livestock, and promotes economic growth and diversification through tourism and outsourcing. MDF continued supporting these market systems to enhance economic diversification, productivity and private sector investment. The NDP includes diversity and inclusion priorities, which MDF aligns with to: 

  • Increase women’s workforce participation and leadership. 
  • Promote economic empowerment for iTaukei and communities. 

  • Facilitate participation of people with disabilities in decision-making processes and their access to public facilities and infrastructure. 

In recognition of MDF’s alignment with Vuvale and NDP priorities and the program’s technical capabilities and extensive networks, the government outsourced several important projects to MDF. To provide dedicated support to these government requests, MDF created a ‘Special Projects’ unit in 2024. 

Fiji Stories of Change

A women from the Yasawa-i-Rara Women’s Group hold up a display of handmade earrings to passing yachts and visitors from nearby hotel.

Turning the tide: Innovation for women’s economic opportunity in Yasawa-i-rara

Driving change: Piloting commercial leasing electric vehicle solutions in Fiji

Robert Hay, Co-Founder and Director of Organic Plus, showcases Organic Plus's Liquid Compost.

Transforming ‘backyard’ solutions into a profitable business model