Australia Cook Islands Partnership Program

# Australia Cook Islands Partnership Program **Issuing Department:** Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) **Category:** Regional Development **Overview:** The Australia Cook Islands Partnership Program is a AUD $7.6 million grant initiative spanning four years (FY2024/25 to FY2027/28). Its purpose is to deepen and strategically enhance the bilateral relationship between Australia and the Cook Islands, reflecting mutual priorities outlined in the ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership. This program demonstrates Australia's commitment to the Cook Islands post-ODA graduation, reinforcing engagement within the Pacific Islands Forum. **Program Pillars:** The grant activities must align with and support the five pillars of the ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership: 1. Strengthening people-to-people links. 2. Enhancing security cooperation for shared regional challenges. 3. Achieving greater prosperity for the people and region. 4. Cooperating on regional and international issues. 5. Fostering closer institutional linkages, including for resilient and inclusive societies. **Eligibility and Selection Process:** This is a **closed, non-competitive grant** opportunity. The **Cook Islands Government (CIG)** is the **sole eligible entity** and invited applicant, recognizing its role as the signing partner to the ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership and the governing authority. No other organizations will be invited or are eligible to apply. The program will disburse one grant annually over the four-year period, with each grant valid for twelve months. **Application Process:** Detailed assessment criteria are available in Section 6 of the Partnership Program Grant Guidelines. The program is administered by DFAT in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024 (CGRPs). The Cook Islands Government can seek further guidance by contacting the Australian High Commission in the Cook Islands via +682 22223, email at AHCRarotonga@dfat.gov.au, or in person at 1st floor, Philatelic Bureau Building, Takuvaine Rd, Avarua – Rarotonga. **Total Available Funding:** AUD $7,600,000 **Keywords:** Australia, Cook Islands, Regional Development, Bilateral Partnership, Government Grants, Cook Islands Government, DFAT, Pacific Islands, International Relations, Foreign Aid, Development Assistance, ‘Oa Tumanava Partnership, Security Cooperation, Economic Prosperity, Institutional Linkages.