An undated file photo shows a coal-fired power station in Australia Photo: 123RF
The Tuvalu Climate Action Network is condemning Australia for its continued promotion of the coal industry saying it is putting Pacific communities at risk.
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The group is among civil society groups which have gathered in Apia for the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting.
The network's Maina Talia said, as Pacific countries head to COP23 in November, they cannot turn a blind eye to Australia's status as the world's largest exporter of the dirtiest form of fossil fuel.
Mr Talia said Australia was the largest and richest of the Forum countries and its position on coal weakens the Pacific's ambitions for a strong stance on climate change.
"Because when we talk about climate change we cannot turn a blind eye to justice. And it is a matter of justice when we are facing this very critical moment for the Pacific and especially low-lying atolls," he said.