DFAT Staff Take Part in Second Intensive “Understanding the Pacific” Course

On 29–30 July 2025, the Department of Pacific Affairs (DPA) at The Australian National University ran its intensive Understanding the Pacific course for staff from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The two‑day program provided participants with a comprehensive look at the Pacific Islands region, exploring the challenges and opportunities shaping Australia’s engagement.

Designed and delivered by leading ANU academics, Pacific Islander scholars, external experts and senior DFAT officials, the course offered participants a chance to step back from day‑to‑day work and focus on the region’s history, diversity, and future. Sessions explored topics such as climate change, gender, aid and development, China’s role in the Pacific, and Australia’s evolving place in the region.

One participant, preparing for a posting to Tuvalu, said they joined the course “in preparation for a posting to Tuvalu where I will be working on Australia’s development program with Tuvalu.”

Reflecting on the program, they shared:

“The most valuable insights I took away from the course were: the importance of remembering the history and context of the Pacific and Australia’s engagement with the Pacific, the diversity of Pacific Island countries, and how integral it is to listen.”

A key highlight was the opportunity to hear directly from Pacific Islander scholars. “I found the presentations and panels from Pacific Islander academics and scholars to be the most insightful and impactful sessions,” the participant said. “It was useful to understand how Pacific Islanders and Australians see the world differently, how Australians are perceived, and ways in which Australians make mistakes and can improve our engagement in the Pacific. It was particularly valuable to hear from a Tuvaluan scholar ahead of my posting.”

The course also provided important context for DFAT’s work. “This knowledge is beneficial for DFAT officers and their work in the Pacific as it provides a greater understanding of the context we are working in, as well as views and perspectives DFAT officers may not often be exposed to,” the participant reflected. “It was incredibly valuable to have time out of the office and away from day‑to‑day work to think deeply and engage with content that is directly relevant to our work.”

With Australia’s relationships in the Pacific more important than ever, the Understanding the Pacific course equips DFAT staff with the insight and skills needed to engage effectively, respectfully, and meaningfully across the region.