Australia Backs Ten Community-Led Projects in Samoa

Apia, Samoa – 04 March 2025 – Ten community-led projects across Samoa have been awarded funding through the latest round of the Australian High Commission’s MALO Grants program.

At a signing ceremony held at the Australian High Commission in Apia last Friday, Australian High Commissioner HE Will Robinson congratulated the successful applicants and praised their commitment to serving their communities.

“This round of MALO Grants was highly competitive, with so many strong applications from across Samoa.  We acknowledge the spirit of service that drives local leaders to create solutions for the challenges their communities face,” said High Commissioner Robinson.

The MALO Grants program provides funding for locally-led initiatives designed and delivered by Samoan communities.

Projects funded in this round will support a wide range of community priorities, including solar power and clean water for rural villages, community farming, sewing and livelihood projects, and youth gardening initiatives.

High Commissioner Robinson said Australia’s support for MALO Grants reflects the importance both countries place on community leadership and local knowledge and expertise.

“Samoa knows best what works for Samoa. Real change comes from within, and Australia is proud to support projects designed and led by Samoa’s communities,” he said.

Each successful project had a funding range between WST$10,000-WST$60,000.Grants awarded in this round total WST$456,284.57, with projects located across Upolu and Savai‘i.