Port Vila, Vanuatu – His Excellency Max Willis, the Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu, has paid a courtesy call to the newly appointed Minister for Justice, Youth, and Community Services, Honorable Job Sam Andy. During the meeting, the High Commissioner extended his congratulations to the Minister on his new role and took the opportunity to provide an update on the ongoing support that the Australian government has been providing to the justice sector in Vanuatu.
The High Commissioner highlighted the continued Australian commitment to the justice sector, including the ongoing Vanuatu-Australian Policing & Justice Program (VAPJP). The third phase of the program was officially launched this month in Port Vila. The High Commissioner Willis emphasized that the transition into Phase 3 of the program marks a significant milestone and demonstrates Australia's strong commitment to improving the justice system in Vanuatu. He also noted that the program plays an essential role in strengthening longtime bilateral relationship between Australia and Vanuatu, fostering mutual growth and cooperation.
Minister Job Sam Andy highlighted the recent growth of his ministry, which now oversees the Department of Youth and Sports Development, as well as the Sports Commission/Authority and the Youth Authority. He called for Australian support to address key youth-related issues, including the ongoing challenges in sports development and the increasing concerns surrounding youth engagement and empowerment.
Additionally, Minister Andy expressed the desire for Australian government support in promoting economic empowerment for women and exploring opportunities for microfinance initiatives that could benefit women in Vanuatu.
A key topic discussed was the long-awaited Vanuatu Hall of Justice Project, which has been stalled for some time. Minister Andy emphasized that it is now crucial for Vanuatu’s international partners to step forward and make a commitment to move the project forward in 2025. The Minister reaffirmed that the Hall of Justice Project remains a priority for the Vanuatu government, as it is central to addressing the integrity and efficiency of the nation’s justice system.
Both the High Commissioner and the Minister expressed their eagerness to continue working together to strengthen the partnership between the two countries and make meaningful progress on these important issues.