EU–Vanuatu Partnership: EU Ambassador Barbara Plinkert wrapped a five-day visit to mark Vanuatu’s 46th Independence Day, discussing development cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure, climate resilience, governance and investment. India–Vanuatu Health & Skills: India’s EAM S Jaishankar sent Independence Day greetings and highlighted an India-supported Centre of Excellence in IT in Vanuatu, with healthcare aid also mentioned as part of the deepening partnership. Pacific Marine Protection: Vanuatu is part of the push for the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves (MOCOR), a major transboundary marine protected area aimed at protecting biodiversity across Melanesia. Cleaner Waste Action: SPREP’s SWAP2 project is progressing across nine Pacific countries, including Vanuatu, to improve waste infrastructure and cut pollution using regional cooperation. Maternal Health Funding Shift: In Australia, Bendigo’s maternal and child health service is moving from council funding to the Victorian government, raising concerns about access to community-based support. Kava Safety Research: A new study reviews kava’s complex chemistry and why it’s hard to pinpoint what drives the small number of liver injury reports. Mental Health Data Caution: A global depression ranking highlights how low reported rates can reflect limited screening, not necessarily better wellbeing. Organ Donation Barrier: A family’s organ donation plans were blocked after oxygen-related brain damage meant organs deteriorated too much for transplant use. Healthcare Safety & Trust: A royal commission heard calls to stop doctors wearing political pins, saying visible advocacy can make patients feel unsafe. Kava & Liver Risk: Researchers note modern kava products may differ from traditional preparations, complicating safety assessments.