Update following Nadi meeting.
The Pacific Church Partnership Advisory Network (PCPAN) held a design consultation meeting for a multi-year Phase 2 program in Nadi, Fiji from 11-14 March 2025.
The meeting was co-facilitated by Pacific Conference of Churches and NCCA with the participation of National Councils of Churches’ representatives from PNG, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and Kiribati. Also attending were representatives of the Pacific Disability Forum, Pacific Theological College and South Pacific Association of Theological Schools, Chair of the Church Agencies Network of 12 Australian aid and development agencies and staff of the Office of the Pacific in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
PCPAN Deputy Chair, NCCA President Rev John Gilmore, assisted with moderating sessions of the meeting.
The network intends to strengthen its advisory, advocacy and coordination roles with capacity-building in coming years in order to amplify its voice into discussions of joint regional priority underpinned by the Pacific household and whole-of-life philosophies and approach.
Key points of focus in the next phase include the importance of mutual learning, representation, and inclusivity. The network aims to strengthen partnerships between Pacific and Australian churches, address regional and national priorities, engage with both Australian and Pacific national governments and civil society organisations.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of involving the voices of youth and traditional indigenous knowledge in engagement and advocacy of issues.
Recommendations for incorporation in the Phase 2 design emphasised the need for clear meeting agendas, mutual learning and practical outcomes. The network’s purpose will be revised to better reflect these goals and ensure effective collaboration and advocacy.
