Australia Launches 46m Investment for Gender Equality

His Excellency Rod Hilton, the Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, has announced a new investment plan to inject over AUD 46 million over three years as part of the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership for Gender Equality. This investment is designed to further advance the cause of gender equality in the Solomon Islands.

High Commissioner Hilton stated that this investment, entitled "Advancing Gender Equality in Solomon Islands," will continuously strengthen women's leadership, enhance women's economic empowerment, and work to eliminate violence against women. Australia will continue to support the Women's Rights Action Movement (WRAM) through the International Women's Development Agency and assist the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs in introducing reserved seats for women in provincial governments, accelerating women's entry into politics.

Building on the first phase of UN Women's "Markets for Change" project, Australia will fund the second phase to ensure that more markets across the Solomon Islands become safer and more inclusive, thereby promoting gender equality and women's empowerment nationwide. Furthermore, Australia will continue to support the SafeNet referral system for survivors and victims of gender-based violence, as well as response services such as Family Support Centers, safe houses, and Christian Care Centers, which are complemented by the Pacific Women Lead program.

To further strengthen Australia's support for the Solomon Islands, the inaugural Australian Awards Alumni Women's Award announced Ms. Laura Kwa’iara as this year's recipient, an award that recognizes outstanding alumni who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. This award embodies Australia's long-term commitment and support for the cause of women in the Solomon Islands.

Australia is supporting the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs in hosting a three-day event at the National Auditorium from March 11-13, which includes a charity drive to purchase wheelchairs for the gynecology ward of the National Referral Hospital. This event further highlights Australia's focus on healthcare and women's health in the Solomon Islands.