Minister for Fisheries, Mr Semi Koroilavesau recently officiated at the launching of Traseable Solutions, a Fijian traceability technology start-up founded by the Katafonos in October 2017.

Over 30 accomplished and enthusiastic delegates will meet in Brisbane, Australia next week for Pacific Connect’s next Network Dialogue, which focuses on ‘Pacific Women in Business and Digital Delivery’.

From a personal perspective, it is always humbling to be in the presence of intelligent and driven individuals. To quote from one of my recent blogs: “The energy, enthusiasm and calibre of participants was evident from the new networks and friendships created, and the discussions and potential projects identified to take forward. It was a pleasure to observe and take part in such positive and action-oriented forums.”

Sixteen Solomon Islanders and Australians recently convened in Honiara from 22-23 November for a Pacific Connect Network Dialogue. The purpose of the event was to discuss how improved digital connectivity in the Solomon Islands can enable a greater choice of educational opportunities, and for participants to meet and expand their networks.

The conversation on digital trade is a vital one for Australia’s future. The question of where the jobs of the future will be create is often raised at community forums, but economists are better at identifying the jobs that will disappear. Jobs will come from plugging into Asian supply chains, exploiting the region’s growing prosperity and by ensuring that more Australians have the skills to meet the needs of the expanding Asian middle class.