Australia launched 60 new “Solomon Islands – Australia Community Partnerships” projects at an awards night on 2 December with communities from across Solomon Islands, representing a significant investment of nearly SBD$15 million in direct funding for local businesses.
These new projects bring the total number of Australian-funded community projects to 100 in 2024, following the 40 projects already funded earlier this year, and now spread across all provinces of Solomon Islands.
Notably, 27 of the 60 projects will be co-funded by Members of Parliament, further reinforcing the shared commitment between Australia, the Government of Solomon Islands, and local communities to build a more prosperous future for the country.
Australian High Commissioner, Rod Hilton, said Australia was proud to be partnering with communities to deliver infrastructure that directly meets community needs, and supporting local businesses with project materials sourced in Solomon Islands.
This model not only addresses immediate infrastructure needs but also builds long-term local sustainability, empowering communities to take ownership of the projects and shape their own future.
“Australia is proud of this approach, where communities are actively involved in the planning, design, and construction of projects, creating solutions that respond directly to their unique needs and priorities,” Hilton said.
“This means the communities own the projects and the results, which ensures that the benefits endure long after completion,” he added.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said at the Awards Night that “partnerships like this are the cornerstone of progress”.
“They remind us that by working together, we can overcome challenges and build a brighter future,” Manele said.
“The enduring friendship between Solomon Islands and Australia is a testament to what can be achieved when mutual respect and shared goals guide our actions,” he added.
Some of the key projects funded under this new round include:
- Solar Lighting Projects in West New Georgia/Vona Vona, Maringe/Kokota, Ranonga/Simbo, Small Malaita, and Rennell & Bellona Provincial Headquarters. These solar installations will improve healthcare access, enhance street safety, and provide reliable energy sources to remote communities, particularly in areas where access to electricity is limited.
- Education Infrastructure in Northwest Guadalcanal, Gao/Bugotu, Hograno/Kia/Havulei, Temotu Nende, and East Honiara. New classrooms, staff houses, and school fences will improve the learning environment for students and teachers, providing opportunities for children across Solomon Islands to learn and thrive in safe, functional spaces.
- Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Projects in Malaita Outer Islands, Ngella, Temotu Pele, Savo/Russells, East Makira, Central Guadalcanal, East Are’Are, Temotu VATUD, Ulawa-Ugi, and Northeast Guadalcanal. These water access and sanitation projects will improve public health by delivering reliable, clean water sources to rural communities, significantly improving the daily lives of thousands of people.
- Community Halls and Kastom Houses in Hograno/Kia/Havulei, Aoke/Langalanga, Northwest Choiseul, Fataleka, Marovo, Central Guadalcanal, North Malaita, and East Central Guadalcanal. These new spaces will serve as hubs for community engagement, cultural exchange, and resilience, providing vital venues for connection and strengthening social ties.
These projects not only respond to immediate needs but also lay the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity in Solomon Islands.
By empowering local communities and aligning with national development priorities, Australia is helping to ensure that the benefits of these initiatives are drives positive change and growth.
