The Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Limited has recognized the pressing need to update its operational laws, highlighting that existing regulations have become obsolete. Chief Executive Ajay Singh pointed out that the Fiji Public Trustee Act of 2006 and the Fees Regulations of 2008 no longer reflect the corporation’s evolving role and responsibilities in contemporary society.
Singh disclosed that a thorough review process is currently underway, in partnership with the Ministry of Justice, the Law Reform Commission, and the ministry that oversees the corporation. He stated, “Most of the clauses in the Act are now, I will say, outdated. So the corporation has just started reviewing the 2006 Fiji Public Trustee Act. The works have begun and currently we are in consultation stages.”
The review and consultation process is projected to last over a year. Singh acknowledged the complexity of the task, commenting, “We have just started. So we will have to go through the consultation process. I think we are targeting one year, but one year is a very short time for a review of the Act.” Preliminary discussions began last year, and the initiative is being directed to the Law Reform Commission for further evaluation.
Singh expressed optimism that revising the legislation will strengthen governance, improve operational efficiency, and ensure that the Public Trustee effectively safeguards the interests of beneficiaries. This modernization effort aligns with current economic and regulatory frameworks, as the corporation aims to provide enhanced protections for the community it serves. The proactive stance taken by the Fiji Public Trustee Corporation indicates a commitment to evolving with the times and improving its services, making it a promising development for the future.