DECISIONS OF THE 7TH CABINET MEETING HELD ON 21 APRIL 2026

1. Amendments to Strengthen Beneficial Ownership Transparency

Cabinet endorsed amendments to the Companies Regulations 2015 to strengthen Fiji's compliance with international anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.

The amendments introduce clearer requirements for identifying and disclosing the true owners of companies, improving transparency and supporting regulatory oversight. This is an important step in addressing gaps identified in international assessments and enhancing Fiji's financial integrity.

The changes form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Fiji's legal and regulatory framework, ensuring greater accountability, improved compliance, and continued confidence in the country's financial system.

1. Strengthened Framework for National Children's Committee

Cabinet approved the revised Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Fiji National Coordinating Committee for Children to strengthen national coordination on child protection and development.

The revised TOR enhances the role of the Committee as a key decision-making body and improves its ability to respond to emerging issues affecting children. It also streamlines the Committee's structure and ensures alignment with national laws, policies, and international commitments, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The Committee will continue to bring together Government agencies, civil society, and development partners to coordinate policies and programmes, support implementation and reporting obligations, and promote awareness of children's rights across Fiji.

1. New Adoption Regulations and Court Rules

Cabinet endorsed the Adoption Regulations 2026 and Adoption (Family Division) Court Rules 2026 to strengthen and streamline adoption processes in Fiji.

The new framework addresses gaps that have affected the processing of adoption applications, ensuring clear procedures for both administrative and court processes. It also aligns Fiji's adoption system with international standards, including safeguards for children and families.

The Regulations and Rules introduce improved screening, placement, and approval processes, as well as strengthened confidentiality and oversight measures. Once finalised, they will support a more efficient, transparent, and child-focused adoption system in Fiji.

1. Updated Targeting System for Family Assistance Scheme

Cabinet endorsed an updated Proxy Means Test to improve the targeting of assistance under the Family Assistance Scheme.

The updated model uses more recent data to better identify the most vulnerable households and improve the accuracy of support delivery. It will continue to be supported by special provisions to ensure that vulnerable groups are not excluded.

The changes will strengthen Fiji's social protection system by improving efficiency, reducing targeting errors, and ensuring assistance reaches those most in need.

1. National Counter Terrorism Strategy 2026-2030

Cabinet endorsed the Counter Terrorism Strategy 2026-2030, strengthening Fiji's preparedness and response to evolving security threats.

While Fiji's current terrorism threat level remains low, the Strategy recognises emerging global and regional risks, including online radicalisation, lone-actor incidents, and geopolitical tensions. It adopts a proactive approach to ensure Fiji remains vigilant and prepared to respond to potential threats.

The Strategy outlines key measures focused on prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, and partnerships, supported by a coordinated national framework involving Government agencies, communities, and international partners. Implementation will be guided by a national action plan and supported through both donor assistance and Government resources.

1. Project to Strengthen National Early Warning Systems

Cabinet endorsed a new project to strengthen Fiji's multi-hazard early warning systems and improve disaster preparedness nationwide, supported by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

The project will integrate existing warning systems into a unified national platform, enhancing the country's ability to detect, communicate, and respond to natural hazards. It will also assess critical communication infrastructure and promote the use of nature-based solutions to improve resilience.

Supported by international partners, the initiative will enhance coordination, strengthen technical capacity, and ensure that early warning systems are accessible to all communities, including those in remote and maritime areas.

1. National Framework to Strengthen Response to Invasive Species

Cabinet endorsed the Fiji National Invasive Species Framework and Strategic Action Plan (NISFSAP) to guide coordinated national action on invasive alien species.

With over 650 non-native species, more than 400 of which are invasive, posing significant risks to biodiversity, food security, and the economy, and with increasing pressures from trade, tourism, and inter-island movement, this remains a critical national priority.

The NISFSAP provides a five-year framework to strengthen coordinated efforts for the prevention, control, and eradication of invasive species.

1. National Biodiversity Strategy 2026-2030

Cabinet endorsed the Fiji National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2026-2030, strengthening national efforts to protect and sustainably manage Fiji's natural environment.

The Strategy responds to increasing threats to biodiversity, including climate change and environmental degradation, and aligns Fiji's commitments with global biodiversity targets. It outlines clear priorities for ecosystem protection, sustainable resource use, and equitable benefit-sharing.

The plan will guide national actions, strengthen coordination, and support access to international funding, ensuring that biodiversity continues to support Fiji's economy, food security, and resilience for future generations.

1. National Policy to Protect Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge

Cabinet endorsed the Fiji National Access to Genetic Resources and Benefit Sharing Policy 2026, strengthening the protection and sustainable use of Fiji's biodiversity.

The Policy establishes a clear framework to regulate access to genetic resources and ensure that benefits from their use are shared fairly, particularly with local communities and traditional knowledge holders. It also aligns Fiji with international agreements and promotes responsible research and investment.

The new framework will enhance governance, improve transparency, and support long-term environmental sustainability while creating opportunities for equitable economic benefits from Fiji's natural resources.

1. Phase 1 Amendments to Strengthen Public Financial Management

Cabinet endorsed the Phase 1 proposed amendments to the Finance Instructions 2010, aimed at modernising and strengthening Fiji's public financial management framework.

The amendments form part of ongoing reforms to align financial management practices with the Financial Management (Amendments) Act 2021 and evolving Government systems, including the introduction of updated financial management information systems.

The Phase 1 amendments focus on enhancing financial controls, strengthening governance and accountability, and increasing the use of digital systems in managing public finances. Further amendments will be introduced in phases to support continuous improvement and ensure effective implementation across Government.