Suva - The Australian government's major aid donor to Fiji is concerned on the impact rising costs, food security and economic uncertainty has on the poor people in the country.

Acting Head of Mission and Charge d'Affaires at the Australian High Commission in Fiji Judith Robinson said Monday reducing poverty and increasing community resilience were the key objectives of their aid programs in the island nation.

She says Australia is interested to see how the budget comes out as they give a considerable amount of funding to health and education in Fiji.

Robinson adds - an important way to reduce poverty is through sustainable agriculture and increased opportunities to generate income as she handed farming equipment to some squatter dwellers in the island nation.

Twenty five families of Jittu Estate, Suva were happy following the official handover of farming equipment that will assist them in their relocation.

The donations are part of a project piloted by local Non Government Organisation Pacific Community Network - who received a grant of $103,000 from AUSAID.

With the equipment, the 25 families from the informal settlements of Wailei and Jittu will be able to become farmers of their own land once they are relocated to Lomaivuna.

Through the grant - PCN was able to purchase a three tonne truck, a van, farming tools, a generator and office equipment.

Farmers will be trained in ginger, vegetable and root crop farming techniques as well as in animal husbandry.

Robinson told the families the donations would transform their lives for the better.

Australia hopes the equipment will ensure better food security, higher incomes and improved living conditions.

PCN is one of 32 civil society organizations in Fiji that were successful in receiving funding under an AUSAID Infrastructure and Capital Grant worth 2.5 million Fiji Dollars ($1.3 million).