The Samoa Bureau of Statistics has been given a major boost in its data collection mandate with Australia stepping forward to support the office.

The SBS is undertaking its Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) with the Australian Deputy High Commissioner, Claire McGeechan on Tuesday handing over includes laptops, tablets, and statistical software which will assist with the collection of the HIES data.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday by the Australian High Commission in Apia and the Samoa Government, the partners said Australia recognises the critical role the bureau plays in ensuring decision-makers are informed by accurate and comprehensive data. The donated equipment was received by the Chief Executive Officer of the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, Leota Ali’ielua Salani.

The HIES – which collects household-level data on income, expenditure, and living conditions – will ensure that the Government of Samoa and its partners are able to provide targeted support to where it’s most needed. Australia’s broad financial support earmarked for the HIES stands at SAT$1.2 million, with the equipment presented as part of a total equipment and software package of SAT$140,000.

Ms. McGeechan highlighted the benefits of data-driven policy development and decision-making at the government level. 

“Australia is pleased to support the Samoa Bureau of Statistics’ Household Income and Expenditure Survey which will offer critical insights into Samoa’s socio-economic landscape," said the Deputy High Commissioner. "The data gathered will inform decision-making and policy development at all levels and contribute to Samoa’s aspirations for an equitable and prosperous nation."

The CEO of SBS Leota thanked the Australian government for its support of their work and how the new equipment will boost their data collection.

“On behalf of the Government and People of Samoa, I wish to thank the Government of Australia through the Australian High Commission, for your commitment to assisting the Samoa Bureau of Statistics in ensuring that the survey is equipped with the right office equipment to further improve the collection and dissemination of statistics," he said. "This will also serve as a continuous reminder of the close relationship between our two countries."

Australia’s support for the HIES is multifaceted, encompassing financial assistance, equipment, software, technical expertise, and capability building. This support was provided through the Tautai – Governance for Economic Growth Partnership between the Governments of Australia and Samoa.   

The Tautai Partnership focuses on supporting the Government of Samoa’s fiscal governance, public financial management, debt sustainability, and policies and services that translate economic growth into improved community well-being.