The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Australian Border Force (ABF) have launched a new Joint Work Program aimed at enhancing cooperation on border security. The program for 2024-2025 was signed by ABF Deputy Commissioner Tim Fitzgerald and FRCS Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh in Suva and coincides with the first anniversary of ABF’s presence in Fiji, as part of the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership.
Over the past year, the ABF has deployed two officers in Fiji as part of its Pacific Network. According to FRCS, these officers have worked closely with local border agencies and the Oceania Customs Organisation, conducting workshops, training, and joint operations. Their contributions have notably improved Fiji’s capacity to handle emerging border risks across maritime, aviation, and cargo sectors.
The collaboration focuses on combating revenue loss and encouraging legitimate trade and travel, particularly through the FRCS’s Gold Card initiative, which promotes compliant trading practices. In addition, the ABF has arranged multi-agency visits to Australia, allowing FRCS officials to gain insight into Australia’s border management practices, including activities related to maritime border commands and container examinations.
The new Joint Work Program aims to fortify these initiatives by advancing capabilities in maritime security, intelligence, and targeting operations, along with enhancing screening processes for containers, cargo, and mail. ABF Superintendent Uriah Turner emphasized that while substantial progress has been made, there is still much work ahead. Formalizing the partnership aims to direct efforts effectively to address border security challenges, benefitting both nations.
Udit Singh, FRCS Chief Executive Officer, expressed gratitude for the support from the Australian Government and ABF in enhancing Fiji’s border management and security. He highlighted the importance of the partnership in customs modernization, technical assistance, and capacity building, which have significantly aided FRCS in enforcing border protection, security, and trade facilitation. Singh noted that the formalization of the partnership will further support FRCS in achieving its objectives of safeguarding borders against illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.