Fiji, July 21 -- Australia's Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen is facing scrutiny over plans to spend more than AUD$4.2 million (US$2.94 million) on accommodation and meeting facilities for foreign delegates attending climate talks in Fiji ahead of COP31.

According to Australian media reports, AusTender documents show AUD$4.2 million (US$2.94 million) has been allocated to secure accommodation and venues for the meetings, which will be held from 05 - 8 October.

The largest allocation, about AUD$2.1 million (US$1.47 million), is for hotel accommodation, lodging and meeting facilities at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort.

A further AUD$2 million (US$1.40 million) has been allocated to secure rooms at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and S...