Comments

Interesting work - I like the way authors have presented the information highlighting the business opportunity. Certainly, looking at the age distribution of trees, and the average yield of coffee that is in the lower end compared to other producers, there is a huge opportunity to invigorate the industry with new investment in the production system. As a under-storey forest plant in its natural setting, coffee is best grown as a component of a tree crop farming system. That could have additional benefits as it can extend income opportunities, spread risks and create a more conducive environment for smallholder farmers who need a regular income to stay connected with the farm and their community. A farming systems focus can also help spread new ideas on integrated pest management drawing on ways to improve crop hygiene, plant and soil nutrition and year round labour force utilisation to encourage more productive and sustainable farming. An earlier ACIAR research study - https://www.aciar.gov.au/project/asem-2008-036 - recommended that intercropping with vegetable as a an alternative that should be investigated. A farming systems based studies, for instance can investigate viable components of a multiple enterprise farming system and innovative , context relevant ways to build on this important work. There are many ways such a study can incorporate other pressing issues of adapting to climate change and rural development challenges in enhancing child nutrition and gender equality.

Hi Natasha and Stephen, I am grateful to come across this life changing opportunity and on how you two reply or give feedback on the comments. My question is I am not living in Australia, nor a visa holder but I do have all the necessary documents as requested. Should I be eligible to apply for Pacific Engagement Visa Ballot

Yeah... it's a serious concern.

This inspired me.

This is truly a saddening stage where PNG Government neglecting a major policy implementation with CEPA, to reduce and mitigate the increasing soiled waste disposals in PNG.

Thank you for the vital information, Natasha. I already registered for the ballot and put 3 dependants. The question is, should I choose to leave them behind due to the high cost of moving, settling and living in Australia?? So later on I could arrange for their travel to Aussie to join me??

Ah, the sweet aroma of cultural preservation wafts through the halls of foreign policy. Australia, that well-meaning neighbor with a penchant for meddling, has decided to sprinkle some fairy dust on Melanesian systems. But beware, Melanesians, for this is no ordinary fairy tale—it’s a cinnamon-dusted, sugar-coated saga. Picture this: A conference room adorned with woven mats, where diplomats sip coconut water and discuss global standards. “Gentlemen,” says the Australian envoy, “let’s integrate Indigenous customs into our justice procedures. It’s like adding pineapple to pizza—unconventional, but oh-so-exotic.” Meanwhile, Melanesian leaders exchange knowing glances. They’ve seen this show before. Global standards, like clingy ex-lovers, have infiltrated every crevice of their governance. “Our ancestors,” they muse, “must be rolling in their yam gardens. HAHA” But wait, there’s more! When all else fails, Australia suggests a cultural Hail Mary: “Let’s try their traditional customs!” “Remember those sacred rituals and practices we dismissed as quaint? Well, dust off the kava bowls and fire up the bamboo flutes. It’s showtime!” And so, the dance begins. Lawyers waltz with tribal chiefs, negotiating land disputes to the beat of ancient drums. “Your honor,” says the ni-Vanuatu attorney, “I propose a seashell currency for legal fees. It’s inflation-proof and biodegradable.” Australia, bless her heart, wants to be respectful. “We’ll preserve your culture,” they promise, “like a jam-filled doughnut—sweet, messy, and occasionally indigestible.” When foreign policy meets cultural integration, it’s like mixing Vegemite with taro paste. Some things just don’t blend. But fear not, dear Melanesia, for your traditions endure. And if all else fails, dunk them in coffee—because even global standards need a caffeine boost. But happy celebrations. Cheeeeeeuuuu!

Tank you for government Australia guiving opportunity

Agreed Adrian. Ive lived in the Pacific for 35 years. I don't see our AID spend making much difference. Splitting into areas spent - would at least allow us to pose questions on why things still don't improve. The standard 3 year consultant who writes a 500 page report and leaves needs examination for starters.

Terence I don't call it Government spending I call it the spending of our taxes. My research is not into spending percentage. My research is done by how much new AID they announce near every time they get off an international flight. They have to make sure the budget gets spent I guess. If AID is falling as a share of so called " Government spending" and as a share of GNI - excellent. Only 22% wont be happy. A clear minority. Could ask that 22% next survey - how many of them pay income taxes.

Thanks Adrian, this would be a great idea for a survey experiment: emphasise different sectors that aid is focused on and see whether some were more likely to change attitudes. Some of our work has touched on this, but we haven't tested it directly. See here for more: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4249482

Hi Jason, You state: "if Albanese, Marles and Wong keep throwing our taxes around like its their own". And you emphasise that most Australians are not in favour of an aid increase. I'm not sure where your information on government spending comes from, but it is worth noting that the current government is not increasing aid in any meaningful way. The aid budget is staying static when inflation is taken into account. Aid is falling as a share of government spending. And aid is falling as a share of GNI. Terence