Tuvaluans make history as first climate migrants to Australia

The first climate migrants from Tuvalu have arrived in Australia, marking the implementation of a landmark mobility treaty between the two nations, Euronews reports.

Tuvalu, a small South Pacific nation composed of nine coral atolls and reef islands, is among the countries most threatened by climate change. Scientists warn that rising sea levels could submerge 95 per cent of the nation at high tide by 2100. Two of Tuvalu’s atolls have already nearly vanished beneath the waves as global warming accelerates the melting of ice and causes ocean expansion.

In response, more than a third of Tuvalu’s 11,000 residents applied for an unprecedented climate visa scheme with Australia. The Falepili Mobility Pathway, which took effect on August 28 last year, is designed to enable “mobility with dignity” for Tuvaluans, allowing them to live, work, and study in Australia. To prevent the mass emigration of skilled personnel still needed at home, the intake is capped at 280 visas annually.

A spokesperson from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade told Euronews Green that the first Tuvaluan families began arriving last month, with additional arrivals expected in the coming months. Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong welcomed the initiative, saying: “The Pathway reflects the deep trust between our two countries, and we look forward to the contributions Tuvaluans will make to Australian society.”

Among the first arrivals is Dr Masina Matolu, a dentist and dental surgeon who completed her undergraduate degree in Fiji and postgraduate studies in New Zealand. She plans to settle in Darwin with her husband and three children, where her brother lives, and hopes to work with Indigenous communities. “I’m really excited to go [to Australia] to help out the people: to serve, to alleviate suffering and pain,” Dr Matolu said. “It’s a great opportunity. I can always bring whatever I learn from Australia back to my home country to help.”

Kitai Haulapi, the first woman in Tuvalu to operate a forklift, is also relocating to Australia to reconnect with family in Melbourne. Working with the Falepili Mobility Pathway’s pre-departure support service, she plans to find a job and send remittances back to Tuvalu. “The wages are very good, and it would enable me to support my family and contribute positively to our nation back home,” she explained.

Pastor-in-training Manipua Puafolau arrived on November 22 and plans to settle in Naracoorte, where a small PALM worker community has invited him to participate in agriculture, food processing, and other labour sectors. “For the people migrating to Australia, it’s not only for their physical and economic wellbeing, but also calls for spiritual guidance,” he said. “One of the great opportunities that must be maintained is the spiritual life of the Tuvaluan people.”

By Tamilla Hasanova