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Maldives move-to-Australia plan copied from New Zealand

11 November 2008 | Joe Stella, Jebediah Cole and Adam Yardley

The Indian Ocean republic of Maldives believes it is sinking and will set up an account to finance everyone moving to Australia at some point.

Read more background from ABC News.


A similar fund is already in operation in New Zealand.

The tiny archipelago is only a metre above sea level, drawing tourists to the panoramic views from the islands’ highest point, Dave’s roof.

Longtime opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed recently took power in the islands’ first democratic election, beating out incumbent Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and Dave, who ran on a platform of “it’s my roof, guys.”

But not everyone in the Maldives supports the move-out plan. Some local leaders say the country can stay put and adapt to climate change—among them Sebastian the Crab.

Mr Nasheed will also enact sweeping economic reforms, including a plan to float the currency.

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