Cook Islands Government Deepens Diaspora Ties in Australia
Prime Minister leads national consultations on seabed minerals, ocean sustainability, and development goals
The Cook Islands Government has wrapped up a national diaspora consultation tour in Sydney, Queensland, and Melbourne, connecting with Cook Islanders living in Australia through open and honest dialogue.
Led by Prime Minister the Honourable Mark Brown, the high-level delegation held a series of community consultations focused on key national priorities—including the emerging seabed minerals sector, sustainable ocean management, climate resilience, and economic independence.
“These consultations have been more than just policies, science, and progress; they’ve been about people,” said Assistant Minister Sonny Williams. “Hearing the hopes, concerns, and ideas of our diaspora has been both grounding and inspiring.”
Held across hubs in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Melbourne, the events drew hundreds of Cook Islanders. The chance to hear directly from Government leaders and ask questions on matters close to home and the heart was greatly appreciated by the attendees. Topics included education, health, climate change, land, and seabed minerals.
Seabed Minerals: Clearer Conversations, Stronger Transparency
The focus of the tour was the Cook Islands’ seabed minerals (SBM) sector. Government officials presented updates on exploration programmes and outlined the legal and environmental safeguards in place.
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) outlined the licensing process, the requirement for independent environmental assessments, and the measures in place to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the sector’s development.
"This is not a race for wealth," said a representative from SBMA. “This is about responsible ocean stewardship. We’re building this sector slowly, carefully, and transparently with the well-being of our people and our environment at the forefront.”
Community members raised thoughtful questions about the long-term impacts of seabed activities, intergenerational benefits, and how overseas Cook Islanders can play a role in shaping the future. The dialogue was open, and all questions were addressed with clarity and care.
Sydney Diaspora Community Attendees
Shared Goals: Guardianship, Growth, and Global Leadership
Beyond seabed minerals, the delegation also shared broader strategies for sustainable development—highlighting efforts in marine spatial planning, renewable energy, and climate action. These initiatives are all part of the Cook Islands’ vision for ocean leadership and national progress.
Diaspora communities were encouraged to stay connected and take part in shaping the country’s future. Participants openly discussed opportunities to return home, contribute skills, or invest in national development, reinforcing a spirit of shared responsibility and pride.
Brisbane & Gold Coast Diaspora Attendees
Voices from Abroad: Connection, Reflection, and Aspiration
For many who attended, the consultations were more than informative—they were deeply personal. People expressed pride in the Cook Islands' direction, raised important questions, and called for more regular engagement with diaspora communities.
Several shared their reflections:
“To be honest, I walked in with doubts… but I walked out informed, empowered, and deeply proud. I learned things I didn't know. The level of care and responsibility shown by the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority, the science behind it, and the focus on environmental protection really shifted how I saw this. It wasn’t just about mining. It was about our future, our people, and how we can be part of something that benefits generations to come with transparency and integrity. Our voices were heard. Questions weren’t avoided; they were welcomed. The Prime Minister and his team answered openly, and it felt like a real conversation with us, not just to us.” - Kendall Browne, Sydney
“I attended the seabed minerals conversation, listening to all the chatter, and sometimes the chatter is incorrect. I’m so glad I attended; you will be educated, and you will be informed. I was a little skeptical myself because I was concerned about the impact, climate change, and everything like that. Can I now say I am converted? I thank the Prime Minister that he was brave enough to come and face our people and that he took the time. At the end of the day, he’s sincere about him. He stated in his own words that he wants to raise the standard of living for the Cook Islands people.” - Leonie Rikiau, Brisbane
"I am glad that I had the opportunity to attend this consult here. One of the key things I wanted to express tonight is that we needed a more balanced approach to the discussions and the conversations that we are having here and to also highlight that it would have been great to have the likes of Ocean Ancestors, the Civil Societies, Korero O Te Orau, Te Ipukarea Society, and some of those who are vocal in opposition to also provide their perspectives and knowledge.” - Louisa Castledine, Ocean Ancestors, Rarotonga
“They came with clarity, with transparency, with purpose, in sharing with us as to what is evolving, what is developing, and all that. Through all these consultation meetings here in Melbourne, Victoria, it has given our people an opportunity to tune in, to be attuned, and to be brought up onto the same page as what we would like to see happen for our Island Nation and our people right across the world, particularly back home. Kia kotou katoatoa te aere mai no tatou ipukarea, te apaina mai i teia karere kura, kia matou i teia tua. Pumaana ta matou ngakau, ngakau parau mataou no to tatou anau mapu, i te takai mai i teia aatea – i te apai mai i teia kura. Kare e eikoko e, kua marama, kua ariki, kua turu te iti tangata i teia tua i teia ta manako ia nei, e parani nei, e umumu ia nei, kia riro ei meitaki puapinga no tatou katoatoa, note uki i te tuatau ki mua. Meitaki Maata!” - Tere Brown, Melbourne
“I truly appreciate the knowledge and the wisdom that was brought to our people. Just really educating us on what's to come, I truly see a new Cook Islands, a new unity. I really do see the new improvements we are in much need of.” - Mama Rei, Melbourne
The feedback, insights, and ideas from these sessions have been constructive and thoughtful. The delegation emphasised that the goal was to listen—to give Cook Islanders abroad the chance to share their views, raise concerns, and better understand the nation’s current direction.
Melbourne South-East & North-West Diaspora Attendees
Looking Ahead: A Journey Shared
As the consultation tour came to a close, the sense of unity and shared purpose was clear.
“We are one people—whether you're living in Rarotonga, Rotorua, or Rockhampton,” said Prime Minister Brown. “Your voice matters. These conversations are just the beginning. Our journey forward is one we all share.”
Stay engaged
We encourage all Cook Islanders, whether in Pa Enua, Aotearoa New Zealand, or Australia, to follow and participate.
🔹 SBMA - Leading the way in responsible seabed minerals development.
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