Australia stands as Tonga’s largest development partner since its independence in 1970, with contributions and comprehensive programs annually.

Australia provides substantial financial and technical assistance in areas like health, education, disaster resilience, infrastructure, and the economy.

Crown Prince ʻAhoʻeitu ʻUnuakiʻotonga Tukuʻaho (now King Tupou VI) became its first chief of mission.

He further added "We have extensive development assistance programs with both countries [Samoa and Tonga] and we have very strong people-to-people links.

[12] In February 2009, fifty Tongan seasonal workers from a federal government pilot scheme aimed at combatting a skills shortage in the rural sector arrived in the town of Robinvale, Victoria.