They are neighbours, friends and in many cases family, but now the Pacific Islands are being seen as vital in the struggle for power in our region.

With China’s influence growing, Australia is pushing back, turning Wallabies into ambassadors.

Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was the guest of honour in Newcastle as part of a charm offensive aimed at a pivotal player in the Pacific power struggle.

Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was the guest of honour in Newcastle as part of a charm offensive aimed at a pivotal player in the Pacific power struggle. (AP)

With China investing billions into infrastructure projects across the Pacific Islands, Australia and our allies – unable to compete financially –have turned to sport as part of a bigger-picture approach. Fijian workers on a specialty Pacific visa class were in the stands.

“We provide a lot of support for rugby in the Pacific – it’s an important way of connecting up with a lot of young people,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia ahead of the International Test match between the Wallabies and Fiji. (Getty)

“That essentially is about family. We are all part of the Pacific family – we have an important responsibility.”

Rugby union is the code of choice for Fiji, with the new NRL team vital for Papua New Guinea, our nearest neighbour.

The contest for hearts and minds in the Pacific has been made harder with the Trump administration cuts to American financial aid in the region.

“We are managing, and in three years hopefully things will change,” Rabuka said.

Deputy Nationals leader Kevin Hogan said “Obviously China are an important trading partner for us”.

Harry Wilson of the Wallabies is presented the Vuvale Bowl by Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia and Sitiveni Rabuka, Prime Minister of Fiji during the International Test match between Australia Wallabies and Fiji at McDonald Jones Stadium on July 06, 2025 in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images) (Getty)

“We have issues with China – we have things we need to talk about their leadership as well,” he told Sky’s Agenda.

The prime ministers jointly presented the Vuvale bowl to the winning Wallabies today.

Trust and cooperation in uncertain times is a much bigger prize.

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