Australia is supporting Solomon Islands in the conduct of its upcoming Joint Elections on 17 April 2024, including through investment in logistics, operations and training, Australian election observers and the deployment of additional police and defence personnel.
The 2024 elections are historic for Solomon Islands as this is the first time National, Provincial and Honiara City Council elections will occur on the same day.
Through a AU$25 million package, Australia is delivering assistance in logistics and voter registration, training for electoral officials and voter awareness initiatives.
This builds on our longstanding cooperation with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) to strengthen the electoral cycle, improve election administration and boost women's participation in the political process.
At the invitation of the Solomon Islands Government, Australia is deploying additional Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel to help deliver safe and secure elections.
As part of the Solomons' International Assistance Force (SIAF), the AFP is working with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force alongside partners from Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
The ADF will work alongside the New Zealand Defence Force to provide logistics and enabling support.
Australia will also send parliamentary observers to monitor the elections: Kate Thwaites MP, Bridget Archer MP, Senator Andrew McLachlan CSC and Anne McEwen OAM, former Senator for South Australia.
Quote attributable to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP:
"Australia has a long history of supporting democracy in the Pacific and will continue to work with our regional partners to support prosperity and security based on our shared values. The ADF's support to the Solomon Islands Joint Elections is a further demonstration of our strong partnership."
Quote attributable to acting Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher:
"Australia is a longstanding supporter of democracy in Solomon Islands. With a relationship based on mutual trust and respect, we are pleased to respond to the requests of Solomon Islands, and provide substantial support for upcoming elections."
Quote attributable to the Attorney-General, the Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP:
"The Australian Federal Police continues its strong partnership with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF). Together, the agencies have continued to build RSIPF capacity off the back of the successful Pacific Games security operation in 2023, in preparation for the Joint Elections."
Quote attributable to Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:
"Australia is pleased to be providing election logistics and security assistance to these important elections. Our support responds to Solomon Islands' priorities, and is a natural extension of our deep and longstanding bilateral relationship."
