Vote counting is underway in Samoa after the country went to the polls in a closely watched election that could reshape the country's political future. Also, In Nauru, the government says its new $400 million dollar deal with Australia to resettle a group of refugees will come into effect once the Pacific nation receives its first transferees.

Samoa's first female prime minister, Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, looks to hold onto power after a string of political controversies in the Pacific nation. Also, Papua New Guinea's only power provider is trades insolvent, with over a billion dollars of debt.

The men found guilty of attempting to smuggle more than four tonnes of methamphetamine into Fiji will know their fate in a court in Lautoka today. Also, former All Black and concussion advocate Shane Christie dies at the age of 39.

Marshall Islanders are in shock after a fire lays waste to the country's seat of parliament in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Also, a shortage of locally grown kava in Fiji forces exporters to look to Papua New Guinea to firm up supplies.

A recent announcement by the Nauru government of a $1 billion investment proposal signed with a little known Chinese company has set alarm bells ringing. Also, PNG's former first lady, Lady Ros Morauta calls on Australia to step up support for Pacific neighbours in the wake of a HIV outbreak.

There's fears a consititional amendment in Vanuatu to only legally recognise two sexes will further marginalise members of the already vulnerable LGBTQI+ community. Also, Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad outlines plans to further enhance relationship with Australia.

New Caledonia's main pro-independence coalition has boycotted talks with France's Overseas Minister who is visiting the territory this week. Also, Samoans head to the polls later this month to elect a new government after a year of instability.

The Albanese government presses Nauru over a proposed billion-dollar deal with a Chinese company, warning of the risks tied to opaque financial arrangements and Beijing's expanding footprint in the region. Also, a project to reclaim land in low-lying Tuvalu is held up at a major infrastructure conference as a prime example of how to deliver meaningful, lasting work.

The Supreme Court in Papua New Guinea has found former Deputy Finance Secretary Jacob Yafai guilty of misappropriation and abuse of office. Also, Pacific leaders outline infrastructure needs to development partners at the Pacific Infrastructure Conference in Brisbane.

France's Overseas Minister Manuel Valls is arriving today in a bid to salvage the historic Bougival Accord after it was rejected by New Caledonia's main pro-independence coalition. Also, the treatment Samoa's leader Fiame Naomi Mata'afa raises questions over the what this election could mean for women in leadership.