What Pacific peoples know about climate justice — and Australia still needs to learn

Pacific communities have long led the global climate fight — not from the margins, but from the front. Australia's hopes of co-hosting COP31 alongside Pacific Island nations have been dashed. So, what does genuine partnership now look like and what does it demands of Australia? 

This live conversation was recorded at the 2026 WOMADelaide festival, produced and presented as part of their Planet Talks program, held on the traditional lands of the Guarna people.

Listen to Big Ideas — Changing minds on climate change

Speakers

Moemoana Safaʻatoʻa SchwenkeSamoan climate activist, cultural ambassador, former Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific Islands

Salā Dr. George CarterHead of the Pacific Institute and Deputy Head of the Department of Pacific Affairs, Australian National University

'Alopi LatukefuDirector Edmund Rice Centre for Justice & Community Education

Tukini Tavui (host)CEO of the Pacific Islands Council of South Australia