Australia has announced that it will be providing 15 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to countries in the Pacific and Timor-Leste by mid next year.

The Australian government gave the assurance in a statement issued recently, when it provided clarity on a commitment made by the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison at the G7 Summit, to share at least 20 million COVID-19 doses with countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

A total of 15 million doses will be sent to the Pacific and Timor-Leste ensuring Australia continues to deliver on its commitment to ensure the countries of the Pacific and Timor-Leste can achieve comprehensive vaccine coverage.

In response to questions sent by the Samoa Observer , Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, Emily Luck said as part of their commitment to partner with neighbours to respond to the pandemic, Australia has shared 10,000 Australian manufactured AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine doses with Samoa. 

"An additional 10,000 doses are scheduled to arrive later this week and we look forward to the delivery of additional doses of CSL-manufactured AstraZeneca to Samoa over time," she said.

"This contribution is part of the 15 million doses Australia will share with the Pacific and Timor-Leste throughout 2021 to support health outcomes and economic recovery. 

"We are in discussions with Samoa about a country specific allocation, arrangements for regular shipment of the vaccines and required consumable materials up to December 2021."

According to the High Commissioner, vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to combat the virus and protect the health and security of the region.

"This assistance comes on top of Australia’s AUD 130 million contribution to the COVAX Facility’s Advance Market Commitment, of which Samoa is a participant. Through COVAX, 52,800 vaccines have arrived in Samoa to date," she said.

"We will continue to work in partnership with our Pacific family in responding to this global pandemic."