How we are helping

On 1 January 2020, Cook Islands graduated from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) List of Official Development Assistance (ODA) Recipients.

Prior to the pandemic, the strong performance of Cook Islands' tourism industry resulted in a relatively high GDP per capita in comparison to many Pacific island countries and the OECD's decision to classify Cook Islands as a high income-country. The COVID-19 pandemic has since caused a significant contraction in Cook Islands’ tourism-based economy.

Australia has provided $8 million to Cook Islands since 2020 (2020/21-2023/24) in non-ODA funds to support Cook Islands after its graduation from the OECD’s List of ODA recipients. This funding has supported Cook Islands' regional engagement and enabled their continued participation in Australian-led and ODA-funded Pacific regional initiatives. It will not be reported as ODA.

Cook Islands' post-graduation priorities include developing marine resources within their large exclusive economic zone, and further developing its tourism, education, seabed mining and renewable energy sectors. Australia's funding to Cook Islands has supported investments in economic growth and governance; regional security, including environmental security; fisheries; pollution management; Cook Islands' COVID-19 response; and gender equality.

ODA achieved program activities

2019-20 total Australian ODA estimated outcome

$3.7 million

2019-20 bilateral budget estimate outcome

$1.9 million

Prior to 1 January 2020, Australia worked with New Zealand through a delegated cooperation arrangement to support Cook Islands' long-term prosperity. Australia supported development activities to:

• improve water and sanitation (SDG 6) by upgrading septic tanks to a reticulated sanitation system and providing technical assistance to strengthen the regulatory environment
• improve quality of education (SDG 4) through budget support and
• improve women's economic participation (SDG 5) and eliminate violence against women.