As Timor-Leste is aiming to build a diverse economy, with opportunities for business and investment, and more jobs for its people, Australia supports the Government’s efforts to improve systems that meet the needs of Timor-Leste in the long-term.  Better access to telecommunications is key to create jobs, to develop a stronger private sector, to increase rural incomes and to ensure more people are workforce-ready.

On 20 July 2017, the Timorese Government signed a two year Option Deed with Vocus, for an exclusive and fully transferable option to reserve capacity on Vocus’ North West Cable System (linking Darwin and Port Hedland) via an existing branching unit, plus the construction of a new spur cable to land in Timor-Leste.

Prime Minister Morrison advised Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sogavare of Australia’s further support for the Tina River Hydropower Development Project through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), in response to Solomon Islands’ request for financing. AIFFP and Solomon Islands’ officials are working to finalise agreements.

This builds on Australia’s support over the last ten years to the Tina River Hydropower Development Project, which will provide electricity to the country’s capital, Honiara.

More affordable and reliable energy will alleviate pressure on household incomes and business costs, and provide opportunities for improved government and community services and entrepreneurship, supporting Solomon Islands’ post pandemic economic recovery.

Using a renewable energy source to produce reliable and sustainable energy will enable Solomon Islands to meet its international commitment for emissions reduction under the Paris Agreement.