Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union

The Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union comprises a bilateral treaty between Tuvalu and Australia, as well as a commitment articulated in a joint leaders' statement to uplift their broader bilateral partnership. It was signed by Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Natano on 9 November 2023.

The key features of the Falepili Union are:

• establishing a special visa arrangement for Tuvaluan citizens to live, work and study in Australia;
• a commitment to protect and promote each other's collective security and sovereignty, including through security commitments that will support a peaceful, safe and prosperous region;
• Australian support for Tuvalu's climate adaptation interests, including an additional $16.9 million for the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project (TCAP); and
• a commitment to uplift their broader bilateral partnership, including Australia's development assistance.

At the heart of the Falepili Union is a commitment to count on each other as they navigate their shared challenges, particularly climate change and security. It will also strengthen their ability to contribute to regional peace, prosperity, and the collective stewardship of the Blue Pacific Continent.

https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/tuvalu/australia-tuvalu-falepili-union

14th GFMD Summit - GRT 1: Impact of climate change on human mobility