The Australia Infrastructure Financing Facilty for the Pacific has just not delivered

As I have repeatedly urged, Australia has to go "big and bold" when it comes to not just countering China's massive influence, but strengthening our own "national Interest" in our immediate region.

The agenda of the AIFFP is neither big nor is it bold! Frankly, it is an embarrassment for Australia in our immediate region.

It began as a good idea, with worthy objectives.

But it has failed totally to deliver with any sense of impact let alone urgency.

There is still time for Australia to counter China's grip on our immediate region when it comes to lending that is unaffordable, and in significant cases for projects that are just wasteful.

But time is running out.

Australia has done an outstanding job when it comes to assisting our neighbours meet the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Our vaccinations contribution has been second to none, as has our support with specialist health services.

But when you look beyond the pandemic, the story is just not good enough.

There should be no embarrassment in admitting that a well-intentioned goal has fallen well short.

The AIFFP has failed. Abolish it, and back to the drawing boards with the advice and assistance of business, the churches, NGOs, and Australians with vast experience in Papua New Guinea and our immediate region!