Australia will hand over the newly-built AUD$60 million border and patrol boat outpost at Lofung in the Shortland Islands to Solomon Islands on Monday.
Senior officials from both governments will attend the ceremony.
Preparations are being coordinated by a joint ministerial committee, with support from Australian counterparts.
“The new facility strengthens Solomon Islands’ capacity to manage its western maritime border,” a statement from the Government says.
“It will bring police, customs, biosecurity and immigration officers together at one location,” the statement added.
“The arrangement is expected to improve coordination and support safer, more orderly cross-border movement.”
The Shortland Islands sit close to Bougainville and form an important part of Solomon Islands’ western maritime frontier.
The Government says the area faces unique challenges because of its remote location and close links with neighbouring communities across the maritime border.
“The new outpost is designed to help Solomon Islands respond more effectively to those challenges.
“It will support maritime policing, border enforcement and other law enforcement operations.
“The facility will also provide a base for responding to natural disasters and other emergencies in the western border area.
“It will support the delivery of government and health services to communities in the Shortlands.”
The outpost is also expected to contribute to social and economic development in the region.
The facility includes operations and coordination areas, staff accommodation and a new wharf.
The wharf can accommodate RSIPV Taro and RSIPV Gizo, Solomon Islands’ Guardian-class patrol boats.
It can also support fast boats provided by Australia.
Construction at Lofung South began in 2022.
The project represents another major investment in the Solomon Islands-Australia security partnership.
It also strengthens Solomon Islands’ ability to exercise effective control over its western border.
Australia and Solomon Islands continue to work together on border security, maritime surveillance, disaster response and community development.
Both governments have reaffirmed their commitment to a secure, stable and prosperous Blue Pacific.
