Various aspects of Samoan land was the topic of discussion amongst senior figures an academics and from across the Pacific early this week.

The meeting is part of peer review sessions organised by the Australian Aid under the “White Paper.”

The White Paper is an initiative by the Australian Government which sets out the strategic directions for its aid program over the next decade.

The two day meeting in Apia was held to discuss innovative practices and problems in land tenure and administration in the Pacific.

Unfortunately the Facilitator did not wish to be interviewed as he had reservations about the media however in a Press Release issued by the Australian High Commissioner, it stated: “The Pacific Land Program is a two-phase land initiative, funded by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and is a key component of the Australian Government’s commitment to support partner governments in programs that will help to promote growth and stability.”

Some of the issues discussed include, Land for public purposes in Samoa, Land dispute settlement in Samoa, Absentee land ownership in the Cook Islands and the ownership and management of land by incorporations and trusts under the Maori Land Acts in New Zealand.

“This meeting in Apia is one of four ‘peer reviews’ that are currently being held in locations across the Pacific” Australian High Commissioner, Matt Anderson, said.

Mr Anderson said the aim of the case studies is to inform Pacific governments, officials, customary owners and other stakeholders on how other countries in the region have sought to address some common issues in land tenure.

“These case studies are not designed as policy prescriptions to be transplanted from one country to another.

“They seek to provide ideas and inspiration to Pacific governments and stakeholders on how solutions might be developed or adapted for the unique needs of their own countries” he said.

“Conclusions will be drawn in the case studies from both successes and failures,” Mr Anderson said.

“The Australian Government has made a clear and strong commitment to provide support to our Pacific partners who are seeking to strengthen their land systems.”

Representatives from Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Australia and New Zealand are meeting at the Insel Fehmarn Hotel to discuss four case studies:

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