Wale, Albanese announce new era of Solomon Islands–Australia partnership

Canberra, Australia |03 June 2026|: Prime Minister Hon. Mathew Wale and Australian Prime Minister Hon. Anthony Albanese today announced a significant step forward in the Solomon Islands–Australia relationship, signalling a new era of strengthened partnership and cooperation.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Canberra, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to elevate bilateral ties based on mutual trust, respect and open dialogue.

As a key outcome, both Prime Ministers agreed to commence negotiations on a comprehensive treaty to capture the shared ambition and long-term vision for the relationship.

Foreign Ministers, in consultation with relevant portfolios, have been tasked to lead the development of the treaty with a view to concluding it as expeditiously as possible.

The leaders also announced a series of tangible initiatives to support Solomon Islands’ development priorities, including budgetary support, education, migration and policing.

In terms of budget support, Australia will provide SBD$200 million (AUD$35 million) to assist Solomon Islands in responding to Tropical Cyclone Maila and addressing the impacts of global energy shocks.

In recognition of the Government’s strong focus on education, Australia will double training and vocational scholarships to 1,500 by 2027. Australia will also work with partners to support the Solomon Islands’ goal of achieving free education.

In migration, the number of Pacific Engagement Visas allocated to Solomon Islands will increase to 300 in the next program year.

And in policing, both countries welcomed continued cooperation to strengthen the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, including the planned completion of a new police academy in Honiara by 2028. The policing partnership will continue under the next phase of the RSIPF–Australia Policing Partnership Program.

Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Wale jointly affirmed the strength and endurance of the bilateral relationship and expressed optimism that this deepened engagement will be transformative.

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