Australia has gifted ten new church noticeboards to communities across Vanuatu, in partnership with the Vanuatu Christian Council (VCC), as part of efforts to strengthen local communication and community resilience.

From a press release it states that the first noticeboard was officially handed over on Sunday to Paton Memorial Church (PMC) by Acting Australian High Commissioner Emily Fisher during the church’s worship service.

The ceremony was witnessed by VCC Chair Father William Bice, VCC Secretary General Pastor Bernard Yalimyau, church pastors, elders, and members of the PMC congregation.

The remaining noticeboards will be distributed to nine other churches identified in collaboration with the VCC. Five are located in Port Vila — PMC, Sarabetu Church of Christ, Apostolic Church, Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur, and Assemblies of God Nambatu — while five will be installed in provincial centres including Sola (Banks), Luganville (Santo), Lakatoro (Malekula), Saratamata (Ambae), and Lenakel (Tanna).

The noticeboards are intended to provide an accessible way for congregations to share timely information and help communities stay informed, particularly during emergencies.

Speaking at the handover, Ms Fisher acknowledged the important role churches play throughout Vanuatu.

“Australia deeply respects the role that faith plays in communities and is pleased to support the Vanuatu Christian Council, whose leadership continues to bring people together across denominations and islands,” she said.

“A noticeboard may seem like a small contribution, but one we hope will make a practical and lasting difference.”

Australia works closely with the VCC and trusted non-government organisations to strengthen community resilience, including through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership. These partnerships have helped expand church-based disaster preparedness nationwide, supporting congregations to take part in preparedness activities, engage in early-warning systems, and contribute to coordinated local responses.

Church networks have played a critical role during cyclones, volcanic eruptions, and other crises by delivering material assistance and providing pastoral care.

The initiative reflects Australia’s ongoing commitment to working alongside local institutions and supporting resilient communities across Vanuatu.