The Australian Government welcomes the historic visit to Australia from 18 to 24 September of His Majesty King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau'u of Tonga as we strengthen our partnership and shape a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pacific.
Today, His Majesty and Australia's Governor-General, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn AC, alongside Tongan Deputy Prime Minister Dr Taniela Fusimālohi and Australia's Attorney-General the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, witnessed the signing of a statement of intent that commits Australia and Tonga to elevating our bilateral partnership with a comprehensive and enduring agreement known as Kaume'a Ofi.
Kaume'a Ofi means 'close friends' and signifies warmth, trust, mutual respect, dependability and shared values.
Australia and Tonga will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber Cooperation to support the two countries to protect national security, manage cyber threats and harness emerging technologies.
Their Majesties' visit to Australia demonstrates the importance of our bilateral relationship and depth of the cultural and personal connections between our two countries spanning 200 years.
The visit will celebrate our strong defence ties, scientific innovation in heath and rich connections across faith.
Tongan diaspora will travel from around the country to attend a church service in Sydney, led by Reverend Charissa Suli, a daughter of Tongan immigrants who became President of the Uniting Church in Australia last year.
His Majesty will recognise Tongan Australians who helped in the 2022 Hunga-Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano disaster with Royal Order of the Crown of Tonga and Coronation Medals.
Her Majesty will also lend her support to Australian researchers in the fight against cervical cancer.
