25 June 2004

Military Drawdown as Progress Continues in Solomon Islands

The Government has decided to withdraw further Australian Defence Force elements from the Solomon Islands following continued progress in the restoration of law and order, Defence Minister Robert Hill, Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer and Justice and Customs Minister Chris Ellison announced today.

The Ministers said the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands had transformed the security environment since its deployment in July 2003.

"Prior to the Mission's arrival law and order had broken down and people were subject to intimidation and violence," the Ministers said.

"In less than 12 months RAMSI has made almost 3000 arrests including many key militants, collected and destroyed more than 3700 guns and stabilised the Government's finances. The mission has also commenced work with the Government on complex long-term reform to help re-build government institutions and the country's economy."

In August 2003 there were over 1700 military personnel serving in RAMSI to support police. There are now 650 serving in the country. The ADF gradual drawdown commenced in November last year. The latest withdrawals will leave around 100 troops in Solomon Islands at the end of August.

The Australian Army's 1st Health Support Company from Holsworthy, New South Wales, departed the Solomon Islands on Wednesday. They were responsible for providing essential health services for military personnel and were at times augmented by specialist health staff from the Royal Australian Navy and Air Force.

The Force Support Squadron of about 84 personnel, predominantly made up of Army personnel but including some Air Force elements, will leave the Solomons on Monday. These personnel were deployed from Townsville, Brisbane and Melbourne-based units. Duties included road transport, logistic, engineering, maintenance and administrative roles.

"The remaining Australian-led military component will continue to be active and visible throughout the country," the Ministers said.

"They will ensure the safety of RAMSI police and will respond to any incident requiring a military presence. If necessary, RAMSI military forces will be supplemented from time to time.

"The ongoing military contribution to RAMSI will continue to be provided by the current troop-contributing nations, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Tonga. These troops will serve on a three-monthly rotating basis.

"The key elements of the remaining ADF contingent will be an Army Force Protection detachment and headquarters staff. An Australian naval vessel will also continue to serve in Solomon Islands waters until a Solomon Islands patrol boat is able to resume this responsibility."

The Australian Government remains committed to the people of Solomon Islands and will continue to provide specialist support to advance reforms in policing, justice, finance and governance.

Ten countries throughout the region have come together to contribute civilian, police and military personnel to work with the people of Solomon Islands to ensure a stable future for the country.

Inquiries:  Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's office) 02 62777 500, Simon Troeth (Senator Ellison's office) 02 6277 7260, Catherine Fitzpatrick (Senator Hill's office) 02 6277 7800