Australia is providing over $2 million in grants this month to support community-led projects in almost every district.

This was announced by Australian High Commissioner to Samoa Will Robinson on Australia Day.

The grants are called the MALO grants, a longstanding feature of the Australian High Commission’s bilateral program aimed at supporting Samoa’s communities in addressing local priorities.

The High Commission said the program has helped fund a wide range of community needs over the years, including solar lights, sewing machines, farming equipment and more. The latest round of MALO Grants closed on 21 November 2025, with over $2 million now committed to successful projects. 

The High Commission confirmed it is in the final stages of its due diligence processes and expects to notify applicants of the outcomes soon.

Past projects supported by the MALO Grants program include community initiatives in Leulumoega, Satapuala, Sapapali‘i, ADRA Exercise (Leulumoega Tuai), ADRA Exercise (Luatuanuʻu), the Sataua Farm Project and Palisi.

“Australia’s MALO Grants empower Samoa's communities to achieve their own development goals. Meaningful and lasting change is driven by communities who know their context best,” Robinson said.

“This year, we are pleased to be providing over WST$2 million in districts across Samoa.

“These grants complement our partnership with the Government of Samoa to support shared aspirations for safe, healthy, and prosperous people and communities.” 

The High Commission said further information will be provided once applicants have been formally notified.