BY SAMIE WAIKORI
Australia remains as Solomon Islands’ largest development partner and Solomon Islands ranks third globally—after Papua New Guinea and Indonesia—in the scale of development support it receives from Canberra.
As one of Solomon Islands’ longstanding partners, Australia continues to demonstrate resilience and consistency in its commitment to the country’s development.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) last week, Australian Acting High Commissioner His Excellency Andrew Schloeffel expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to engage with PAC members and stakeholders across government, parliament, civil society, and the private sector.
He described these engagements as fundamental to ensuring Australia understands the best ways to support Solomon Islands’ development.
“We are talking about a substantial commitment, and we want to make sure it is a commitment that is being led and driven by the priorities of the government and the people of Solomon Islands,” Schloeffel said.
For the current financial year, Australia’s development assistance to Solomon Islands stands at approximately AUD 170 million.
Schloeffel emphasized that Australia aligns its development programs with the priorities of the Solomon Islands Government, delivering support in what it sees as the most effective and responsive manner.
He noted that in June this year, Australia launched its Development Partnership Plan—a public document outlining how Australia intends to work and what it will prioritise in its support to Solomon Islands.
The Acting High Commissioner added that Australia continues to respond to key recommendations raised by successive Solomon Islands governments, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, job creation, and economic growth. These priorities, he said, have become major features of Australia’s support.
In addition, Schloeffel highlighted ongoing cooperation in health, education, public financial management, and gender equality.
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