Fiji receives final reports on land use law reforms

Fiji is advancing its land law reforms following the presentation of final review reports on the State Lands Act of 1945 and the Land Use Act of 2010. The Fiji Law Reform Commission submitted the comprehensive reports to Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo.

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The exercise was critical to ensuring Fiji’s legal framework remains relevant, fair and effective.

Turaga emphasized the critical need to update legislation that has been in place for decades. He stated that reforming laws governing state-owned land is essential for Fiji's legal framework to remain relevant, fair, and effective, meeting the demands of modern Fiji. Law reform, he noted, is a cornerstone of a democratic society, requiring legislation to keep pace with evolving social and economic conditions.

The review process involved extensive nationwide public consultations, in-depth research, and engagement with various stakeholders, alongside internal ministry consultations. Minister Vosarogo underscored the necessity of this review to ensure Fiji's land laws adapt to changing times and remain suitable for the next half-century.

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He described law reform as a cornerstone of a vibrant democratic society and stressed the importance of ensuring legislation keeps pace with changing social and economic realities.

The Attorney-General's Office will now review the final reports, proposed Bills, and accompanying Cabinet papers. These reforms are anticipated to significantly enhance land administration, bolster legal certainty, and provide a stronger foundation for future development across the island nation.

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The review was necessary to ensure Fiji’s land laws evolve with changing times and remain fit for purpose for the next 50 years.