Solomon Islanders Send Record-Breaking SBD431 Million in Remittances

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Solomon Islanders working overseas, particularly under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, sent home a record-breaking SBD431 million in remittances in 2024, according to the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI).

This amount is 70% higher than the previous year, highlighting the growing impact of overseas employment on the nation’s economy.

The increasing figure of remittances underscores the significant role of Australia’s PALM scheme in improving the lives of Solomon Islanders by enabling them to send money back to their families and local communities.


Australia’s High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the remittances improve living standards and bolster Solomon Islands economic resilience.

“This outstanding result is just one of the reasons we are proud Solomon Islands choose to partner with Australia to create more jobs and opportunities for economic development, including under the PALM scheme,” High Commissioner Hilton said.

“With over 8,500 Solomon Islanders who have gone to work in Australia, these remittances play a crucial role in assisting families and local communities.”

Director of the Labour Mobility Unit, Ms Christina Marau acknowledged the contribution of Solomon Islanders working in labour mobility to the country’s economic development.

“With the great reputation of our Solomon Islands workers in labour mobility, I want to acknowledge the workers for their commitment and hard work.”

“We’ve seen a lot of growth in the demand for our workers and it is because of their “Here to work” attitude, maintaining our good reputation”

Surveys conducted by the Pacific Labour Mobility Support Program show that families typically use remittances to pay for school fees, build homes, and start businesses, creating more job opportunities for Solomon Islanders.

This cycle of investment and growth continues to drive sustainable development across the nation.

By December 2024, more than 27,200 PALM scheme workers across the Pacific had secured employment in Australia, working with nearly 500 businesses. This highlights the program’s importance to the Solomon Islands and the broader Pacific region.

“The record-breaking news demonstrates why Australia is Solomon Islands nambawan economic partner,” High Commissioner Hilton said.

“It’s the value and strength of this economic partnership, which is underpinned by Australia’s commitment to creating jobs and increasing opportunities for Solomon Islanders here and overseas.”

 Media Release | AHC

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