Australia, Solomon Islands officially open Western Border Outpost in Shortland Islands

The new facility brings together the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, Customs, Immigration, and Biosecurity officials in a single location, enhancing interagency coordination and strengthening border management operations that help keep Solomon Islands secure.

The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles and Solomon Island’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Public Service, Francis Sade, as well as Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services John Tuhaika jnr, and Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration Harry Kuma.

“The official opening of the Western Border Outpost marks an important milestone in Australia’s longstanding partnership with Solomon Islands,” Minister Marles said.

“This new facility will support Solomon Islands to strengthen border management and maritime security while delivering real benefits for its people.

“It stands as a practical demonstration of what Australia and Solomon Islands can achieve together and provides a sovereign asset for Solomon Islands to use to strengthen its security.”

The new facility is envisioned to support Solomon Islands to strengthen border management and maritime security, marking a significant milestone in the longstanding security partnership between the two nations. Once handed over, this will be a sovereign Solomon Islands facility.

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In partnership with the Solomon Islands government, this project has created lasting benefits for local communities including 368 jobs created and more than 1,000 contracts awarded to local businesses.

Robert Dougherty

Author

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.

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