Today marks the opening of the 2025 Pacific Public Service Leaders Conference (Fono) in Suva, Fiji, hosted by the Fiji Public Service Commission and supported by the Public Service Fale.
The Fono brings together Pacific public service leaders to strengthen collaboration and advance leadership in the region’s public services. It reflects the spirit of regional cooperation and renewal under this year’s theme, “Winds of Change: Reimagining Public Service in the Blue Pacific Continent.”
Day one set a strong foundation for the week ahead. The opening ceremony, attended by the Secretary General of the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat, His Excellency Baron Waqa celebrated unity and partnership, followed by plenary sessions on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and Collective Leadership. Attendees discussed how Pacific public service leaders working together is integral to the success of the 2050 Strategy with delivery of fit for purpose, responsive public services directly aligning to the 2050 Strategy theme of good governance.
A Heads of Delegation session led by Sir Brian Roche, NZ Public Service Commissioner and Dr Gordon de Brouwer, Public Service Commissioner Australia focused on common challenges and opportunities leading at the national and system levels, with the role of AI in improving public service operations and delivery top of mind for all HoDs.
“The Fono is more than a conference, it’s a collective and regional commitment to stronger and more connected Pacific public services. The conversations between the leaders that happen at the Fono are built on throughout the year, and that’s when the real impact happens.”
- Deputy Commissioner Tania Ott, Public Service Fale, New Zealand Public Service Commission
The Public Service Fale, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), is proud to support this regional gathering strengthening Pacific leadership and connection across our shared Blue Pacific Continent.