Solomon Islands PM targets 5,000 annual workers for PALM scheme

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has called on Australian employers to recruit 5,000 Solomon Islanders annually through labour mobility programs. Speaking at the inaugural Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme Approved Employer Expo in Honiara, Wale challenged participating employers to utilize the country’s work-ready labour pool to meet this target.

The expo, attended by 25 approved Australian employers, aims to strengthen recruitment partnerships and expand employment opportunities. Wale noted that increasing seasonal employment is a key priority for his administration as it seeks to reform the domestic economy. He described the scheme as an “investment in our people,” noting that since 2018, over 13,000 Solomon Islanders have participated in the PALM scheme across various industries.

The event follows discussions between Prime Minister Wale and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, where labour mobility was identified as a shared priority. The expo also involves government officials, training providers, and representatives from the health and insurance sectors to build confidence in local workers.