AUSTRALIA has described as “incorrect” a news article the Island Sun newspaper published that claim they are further opening up their doors to Solomon Islanders.
The front page article, published on Monday, quoted unnamed sources.
It claimed Australia came up with the offer to counter moves by the Sogavare Government to switch diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China.
It further claimed that under the new package, Solomon Islanders will have easy access to gaining residency in Australia.
But the Australian High Commission in Honiara yesterday dismissed the news article.
“Australia supports Solomon Islands’ sovereignty, prosperity and stability,” it said in a statement.
“Australia’s programs are not changing,” it added.
“Australia is committed to supporting Solomon Islands to increase participation in Australia’s Pacific Labour Scheme and Seasonal Workers Program from the 334 Solomon Island workers who participated in the scheme during 2018-19.
“The Australian High Commission encourages media to check the facts with us before publishing unverified stories about Australian policy and programs.”
