The Australian High Commission in Tonga celebrated Australia Day 2025 over the weekend with the theme “Sea of Connections,” emphasizing the enduring partnership between Australia and Tonga.
The event, held at the Tailulu College’s Falemasiva Hall in Havelu, was graced by HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala and HRH Crown Princess Sinaitakala as Guests of Honour.

The Australian High Commissioner, Brek Batley, reflected on 150 years of shared history, cultural exchanges, and collaboration. “Our partnership is growing from strength to strength. We thank our many partners and the Australians living here in Tonga who contribute to this every day,” the High Commissioner stated.
The evening celebrated Australia’s First Nations heritage, highlighting the ‘Evolution: Torres Strait Masks’ exhibition, which showcases the rich mask-making traditions of Torres Strait Islanders. The exhibition, from the Gab Titui Cultural Centre and National Museum of Australia, will soon be displayed in Tonga.

A special announcement included an enhanced round of grants under the Direct Aid Program, with proposal limits increased to TOP60,000 for March, encouraging community leaders to pursue ambitious projects.
Ms. Mele Prescott’s captivating performance was a highlight of the evening.

Prescott is the high school student from Niuatoputapu who was recently in Sydney for a two-week vocal training program at the Gondwana National Choirs School sponsored by the Australian High Commission in Tonga.
There are over 43,000 Tongan-Australians calling Australia home.