Australia's Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS)

Australia has a long history of supporting enhanced skills and training for Pacific media through the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).

PACMAS is implemented by ABC International Development and supports the development of a diverse, independent, resilient and professional Pacific media sector.

It promotes informed and meaningful public discourse and good governance, including a focus on training and supporting high quality original content.

The program has also helped expand cooperation between Australian and Pacific journalists, and improved broadcast infrastructure in the region.

PACMAS is currently in Phase 4 and will receive $9.3 million from FY2023-24 to FY2025-26.

More about Australia's Pacific Media Assistance Scheme

Media for Development Initiative (MDI)

MDI commenced in January 2005 and is a long-term development program to build capability and capacity in PNG's media sector. The program's focus is strengthening the media industry, including to uphold principles such as integrity, accuracy, impartiality and providing a diversity of perspectives.

MDI has four streams of activities: media sector leadership, capacity and skills, media content and partnerships.

MDI is currently in Phase 4 and will receive up to $11.2 million between 2022-2026. It is managed by ABC International Development and key partners include the Media Council of PNG, the National Broadcasting Corporation of PNG and Church radio stations.

More about the Media for Development Initiative

Solomon Islands-Australia Media Sector Partnership

Australia’s support for Solomon Islands’ media sector is long standing, including through the now concluded RAMSI-funded Solomon Islands Media Assistance Scheme (SOLMAS) and continuing support through the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS). The Solomon Islands-Australia Media Sector Partnership ($2 million over FY2024-25 to FY2027-28) is implemented by ABC International Development to supplement the regional PACMAS program by increasing journalist capability, strengthening public broadcaster capabilities and reach, and supporting the Media Association of Solomon Islands.