A total of 760 homeowners dealing with termite infestations have received $5,000 each, while an additional 15 homeowners have been compensated with $3,000 each as part of the Coalition Government’s support for affected families. Sashi Kiran, co-chairperson of the Termite Taskforce, highlighted the ongoing issue of Asian Subterranean Termites (AST), which have been a problem in the country for the past decade, causing significant damage to homes.
In Lautoka, property values have been particularly impacted by the AST infestation. Kiran noted that the termites have also spread to the Northern Division and Nakasi. To date, $3.83 million has been distributed among 775 applicants. The Lautoka City Council processed the applications, with verification conducted by Biosecurity of Fiji.
The Coalition Government has initiated a pilot assessment and baiting program in Lautoka, with plans to extend the strategy to other regions based on insights gained from this initial phase. Insights from Lautoka will inform future assessments and responses to the termite issue nationwide.