Paramount Lau chief urges Australia to introduce visa-free travel for Fijians

A paramount traditional leader from Fiji's Lau group has called on the Australian government to implement visa-free travel for Fijians and offer them immediate domestic university tuition rates. Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara, holding significant traditional titles, stated that while he appreciated the expanded 'Vuvale Union' (family union) announced last month, a truly equal footing is necessary to make the concept of 'vuvale' genuine.

Mara proposed that Fijians should receive visa-on-arrival status in Australia, mirroring the arrangements for Australians traveling to Fiji. The recent Suva announcement allowed Fijians to apply for tourist visas of up to four months, offered five-year multiple-entry visas for business travelers, and promised domestic fee arrangements for Fijian students at Australian universities starting in 2029.

“

It feels like receiving a gift before the release.

Speaking as a guest who experienced Australia's warmth, Mara emphasized the custom of family not being barred at the door. "An Australian steps off the aircraft in Nadi and is welcomed without a form; a Fijian must still apply to enter Australia," he stated. He thanked the Australian government for the agreed-upon stay lengths, calling it a generous and noticed step, but stressed that the final barrier remains the entry process itself. Achieving reciprocal travel ease, he believes, would make 'vuvale' meaningful on both sides of the ocean.

Regarding university fees, Mara welcomed the commitment but questioned the 2029 start date. He argued that every year between now and then represents another year of families paying unaffordable international fees. He urged Australia to reconsider this timeline, noting the significant contributions of Fijian workers in Australia under the PALM scheme. Over 5,000 Fijians were working in sectors like horticulture, meat processing, and aged care as of late 2025, sending an estimated FJ$145.5 million home in the year to June 2025. "Our workers are picking Australian fruit, standing in Australian meat works and caring for elderly Australians - this season, and every season," he said.

“

Through research and interviews, I strived to avoid preconceived notions and adopt a balanced viewpoint.