Fiji’s growing reliance on Australian technology and expertise is raising questions over whether the country has the capacity to manage and sustain its own border security systems.

Questions are being raised over whether sensitive government data under the proposed Fiji-Australia Vuvale Union and Ocean of Peace Alliance treaties could eventually be stored in Australia.

Deaths linked to rheumatic heart disease in Fiji are rising, with the latest review showing an increase from about 60 to 71 deaths a year.

Former inmates should not continue to be punished by society after completing their prison sentences, with rejection and discrimination creating what President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu describes as a “second prison”.

Fiji is urging Pacific leaders to strengthen their participation in discussions leading up to COP31, with Tuvalu set to play a key role in bringing the region’s climate priorities to the global stage.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has clarified that the $56.25 fee for medical reports at Tavua Hospital is not unique to the facility.

The Supreme Court has upheld a $5,000 legal costs order against a man who lost his appeal in an employment-related case.

Fiji’s tourism earnings fell by 4.9 per cent in the June quarter compared with the same period last year.

Concerns are being raised over Fiji’s growing reliance on Australia to modernise its border management systems.

Fiji will need stronger systems, skilled personnel and long-term funding to manage the proposed expansion of border security cooperation with Australia.

Rheumatic heart disease can cause lifelong heart damage if it is not detected and treated early, with children and young people among those most at risk.

The mental wellbeing of RFMF servicewomen cannot be addressed through one-off workshops, with calls for sustained support to help them deal with trauma linked to their service.