SOLOMON Islanders working abroad sent home a record $USD61 million between July 2024 and June 2025.
Data released by the Australian High Commission in Honiara shows that Solomon Islands workers in the Pacific Labour Mobility Support Program sent home $USD1111 per month, or three times the average monthly wage.
The money – sent through bank transfers, in-kind and cash remittances – has been used to build homes, support families and boost the national economy.
Remittances flow directly to families who most often use the cash on major expenses like housebuilding and school fees.
The increased remittances reflect the growing number of Solomon Islanders who have taken up employment in Australia under the PALM scheme. It is expected that the amount of money sent home by workers will increase this year.
As of January, more than 11,000 Solomon Islanders have participated in the PALM scheme.
The Australian High Commission’s Andrew Schloeffel said Solomon Islands PALM workers understood the valuable role they played in Australia’s economy.
“The PALM scheme is a true partnership, with huge benefits for both Australia and Solomon Islands,” Schloeffel said.
“We’re extremely grateful for the contribution hard-working Solomon Islanders are making every day, including on farms, meat works plants and aged care facilities across Australia,” he added.
Schloeffel said remittances would improve the lives of their families and communities, while supporting the national economy.
Solomon Islanders provide around 5000 workers to the PALM scheme.
Source: In-depth Solomons, Islands Sun