The Ministry of Housing in Fiji has unveiled a significant expansion of its initial home ownership initiative aimed at assisting families living in informal settlements and those who have experienced eviction from these areas. Minister Maciu Nalumisa discussed the vital importance of this development during a recent parliamentary session, underscoring the persistent demand for support among vulnerable families since the initiative’s inception in 2014.
Minister Nalumisa pointed out that many low-income households have found it challenging to enter the formal housing market due to prohibitive costs. To address this issue, the Ministry intends to launch a First Home Grant Assistance Program, which will provide targeted financial aid to families displaced from informal settlements across the country. The program will initially be tested in Suva, which contains some of the most densely populated informal areas.
The pilot program will focus particularly on families with a combined household income of up to $30,000, especially those living in identified settlements such as Vunidawa, Nabua Muslim League, and Kilikali. In total, over 600 households in these regions have been recognized as eligible for support, marking a substantial advancement towards better living conditions for some of Suva’s most disadvantaged inhabitants.
Addressing inquiries regarding eligibility, especially related to age, Minister Nalumisa confirmed that there are no age restrictions for applicants. Any individual who can prove ownership of registered land will be able to apply for the program.
This initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to improving housing access and affordability, a goal that has been reaffirmed through prior funding for the First Home Ownership Initiative. The government recently allocated $4 million to support numerous applications associated with this initiative and has also introduced a zero-deposit home loan option designed to remove financial barriers to home ownership.
The ministry’s proactive strategies, which include plans to formalize informal settlements and offer resettlement funding, inspire hope for a more secure and stable housing environment across Fiji. By addressing the immediate requirements of families at risk of eviction and facilitating access to formal housing options, the government demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens—ultimately nurturing a society in which home ownership is within everyone’s reach.