The Governments of Australia and Samoa have marked a new milestone in their partnership with the endorsement and publication of the Australia – Samoa Development Partnership Plan 2024-2030.

The Development Partnership Plan translates into action the development priorities Australia shares with Samoa. It builds and strengthens over 55 years of diplomatic relations, and delivers on the ambitions set out in the Australia–Samoa Bilateral Partnership Arrangement – O le Fala Folasia I Lo Ta Va (The Map that Guides Us), the Pathway for the Development of Samoa FY2021/22–FY2025/26, and Australia’s International Development Policy. 

“This Development Partnership Plan reflects our seasoned partnership – underpinned by respect for each other’s sovereignty, shared values and goals for development, as well as our shared stewardship of our Blue Pacific continent,” said Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa.

The Plan captures the full spectrum of Australia’s development partnership with Samoa, encompassing economic governance and growth; health, education and gender equality; climate, disaster and security cooperation; and creating inclusive opportunities for Samoans locally and through linkages with Australia. It sets out common goals and mutually agreed objectives, on how the two nations will work together to deliver shared outcomes, and how progress will be monitored. It will serve as the guiding framework for all Australia-funded bilateral, regional and global initiatives delivering support to Samoa over the next five years. 

“This plan celebrates the deep connection between our peoples, cultures and governments. As members of the Pacific Islands Forum, transparent and respectful partnership and locally led development remain the cornerstones of our development partnership,” said Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, Will Robinson.

 The Governments of Australia and Samoa look forward to celebrating this significant milestone through an official launch in due course.