The Solomon Islands has achieved a world-first milestone in public health, thanks to the strength of its partnership with Australia. Through two consecutive rounds of Mass Drug Administration (MDA) for scabies, prevalence has plummeted from 23.2% in 2021 to just 3.9% today—a level now considered manageable within the health system.
This achievement is more than a health success story—it is a powerful demonstration of what strong bilateral cooperation can deliver for the people of Solomon Islands.
Australia’s support has been pivotal:
- SBD 14.8 million investment for the second MDA in 2024
- Technical expertise through leading institutions such as the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Kirby Institute, and Fred Hollows Foundation
- Ongoing capacity building and health system strengthening to ensure sustainable results
“This partnership is saving lives, improving well-being, and setting a global example,” said Dr Tristan Armstrong, Human Development Counsellor at the Australian High Commission. “Together, we are proving that collaboration between nations can tackle even the most neglected diseases.”
Adding to this, Dr. Nemia Bainivalu, Deputy Secretary Health Improvement, stated:
“This achievement shows what is possible when we work hand in hand with our partners. Australia’s support has been critical—not just in funding, but in technical expertise and capacity building provided through the technical agencies which has supported us through the journey of achievement. Together, we are building a stronger health system for our people.”
The Solomon Islands Australia Health Partnership extends beyond scabies. Since 2020, Australia has supported interventions for school deworming, trachoma, and yaws, alongside training and technical assistance that strengthen the entire health system.
Why does this matter?
- Healthier communities mean stronger economies and brighter futures.
- Solomon Islands is now leading the world in eliminating scabies as a public health problem—an achievement made possible by partnership.
Next Steps:
DFAT will continue to work with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to maintain low scabies prevalence and expand efforts to combat other neglected tropical diseases.
This is what partnership looks like: practical, impactful, and life-changing.
