Papua New Guinea now has more than 550 confirmed COVID-19 cases and the country's WHO COVID-19 Incident Manager says more testing is needed.

Samoa's Attorney General has defended the request to Australia for the extradition of a man wanted over an alleged plot to assassinate the prime minister.

WHO says the number of COVD-19 cases in PNG is likely to be higher than the 546 reported and is working with the government for more testing and rapid response; and as Fiji marks its 50th anniversary of indepedence, a Fijian transgender activist says community members have faced increased stigma during the COVID -19 global pandemic.

A Fijian transgender activist says members of the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, trans and intersex – or LGBTI – community have faced increased stigma from churchgoers during COVID -19 global pandemic, has broken families and torn lives apart.

A PNG governor says his provincial government will lodge a legal challenge if a proposal for the country's largest mine on the Frieda River gets the green light in its current form.

From kastom dances to traditional paper-making to using dirt and soil for paint, artists in Vanuatu are turning to traditional materials for a new exhibition that's raising awareness about climate change.

It has been a week of celebrations in Fiji as the country builds up to the Fiftieth anniversary of its independence tomorrow, but concerns remain about the Pacific nation's political stability in the post-COVID economy.

A group of young Samoans from the outer Melbourne suburb of Hampton Park have taken out a prize at the recent Pacific Music Awards in New Zealand. Since releasing their debut single last year the HP Boyz have gone from local rappers to international stars.

Pacific Islander community members criticise plans from the Australian Government to introduce an English language requirement for partner visas and their permanent resident sponsors.

The introduction of an English language requirement for partner visas and their permanent resident sponsors, announced during this week's budget, has been met with criticism by some Australian Pacific Islanders community members with concerns it will affect migration numbers; and Fiji celebrates it's 50th independence anniversary this Saturday.