LOCAL construction firms and suppliers in Solomon Islands are expected to benefit from Australian-funded infrastructure projects, following a workshop delivered by the Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program (SIIP) under the Solomon Islands-Australia economic partnership.

The fourth workshop in a series was attended by 43 firms, and aimed at helping local industries benefit from Australian-funded infrastructure projects. The workshop focused on how contractors could prepare a compelling Local Content and Industry Participation Plan (LCIPP), outlining how they will create local jobs, use local suppliers, and create onsite learning opportunities for workers.

High Commissioner Rod Hilton reiterated Australia’s commitment to investing in the local economy, stating that the objective of the economic partnership is to maximize jobs and employment opportunities to support Solomon Islands’ national development aspirations.

The SIIP has four local content objectives, including creating local jobs, promoting local enterprise development, accelerating the transfer of skills and technologies, and meeting Solomon Islands’ national development aspirations.

The workshop was facilitated by SIIP’s Local Content adviser, Emma Tiaree, and the keynote speaker was Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO Natalina Hong, who emphasized the importance of local content in infrastructure development.

The SIIP has been working to help contractors deliver Australian infrastructure projects under SIIP to demonstrate their commitment to creating economic opportunities for Solomon Islanders.