BUILDING STRONGER PARTNERSHIPS, EXPANDING PALM OPPORTUNITIES: PM WALE

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Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has reaffirmed the GREAT Coalition’s commitment to expanding the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme through stronger partnerships with the Australian Government, approved employers and local stakeholders.

Speaking at the inaugural PALM Scheme Approved Employer Expo in Honiara today, Prime Minister Wale said collaboration was essential to creating more employment opportunities for Solomon Islanders while meeting workforce needs in Australia.

Since 2018, more than 13,000 Solomon Islanders have participated in the scheme, supporting their families and communities while gaining valuable skills and workplace experience.

The Expo brings together representatives from 25 approved employers, including seven engaging with Solomon Islands for the first time.

It also provides an opportunity to strengthen recruitment partnerships and build confidence in the local workforce.

The GREAT Coalition Government has set a target of enabling 5,000 Solomon Islanders annually to participate in labour mobility programs.

Prime Minister Wale said achieving this target requires stronger coordination across government agencies, effective worker preparation and improved systems to support sustainable growth.

“The Government is working to address existing barriers and review the National Labour Mobility Policy to strengthen the country’s labour mobility framework,” he said.

The Prime Minister said the economic benefits are significant.

He said according to Central Bank of Solomon Islands, labour mobility workers remitted approximately SBD 507 million to local households in 2025.

“Beyond remittances, the scheme provides opportunities for workers to develop skills, gain experience and bring valuable knowledge back to their communities,” Prime Minister Wale said.

Prime Minister Wale challenged approved employers and the Government’s Labour Mobility Unit to work together to fill the available work-ready pool and achieve the annual target.

He said the Government’s priority was to ensure labour mobility growth delivers lasting benefits for workers, families, employers and both countries.

ENDS//