Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands in the South Pacific. It is famed for rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Despite many of its islands remaining unpopulated, Fiji is one of the most populated countries in the Pacific. Its cities are booming; its population is growing, with over half the inhabitants now prefer living in the cities and towns. Its major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Viti Levu is home to the capital, Suva, a port city with British colonial architecture, and Lautoka, the second-largest city, known as the Sugar City because of its sugar cane belt areas.
Poverty remains a significant concern in Fiji, despite the overall level of development and the moderately high average incomes, with more than 250,000 people trapped below the poverty line. Rural and remote island communities are particularly vulnerable due to their lack of access to clean water, sanitation, health care, and other government services. According to the latest estimates, about 140,000 people nationwide live in over 200 informal squatter settlements. Besides having no proper legal title to their homes, most lack basic amenities such as piped water, sewerage, and electricity.
Lautoka City lies on the west coast of Viti Levu and is home to 52,500 people. Over 20,000 of these people are living in informal settlements or slums on the city periphery, where they lack essential services such as sufficient clean drinking water, toilets and washing facilities, and safe living spaces.
Habitat for Humanity Australia works closely with families in Fiji to improve their access to safe, affordable housing. Through the Global Village program, volunteers help make the dream of a decent home a reality for these families, which include people living with disability or illness, child-headed households and older adults. Over the course of a week, volunteers work shoulder-to-shoulder with deserving partner families and local tradespeople to build forever homes, develop true camaraderie and create lasting memories. Unite with other like-minded individuals for an unforgettable and impactful experience where you will enjoy the wonders of the colourful Fijian culture and the warmth of its people, make new friends and change lives – including your own.
Through shelter, we empower.
