Tuesday, 24th February 2026 | Apia, Samoa.
[JOINT MEDIA RELEASE]: The Governments of Samoa and Australia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen long-term cooperation on cybersecurity, backed by AUD 2 million (WST 3.8 million) over three years to support Samoa’s national cyber priorities.
The MOU was signed during an official Government dinner hosted by Samoa’s Prime Minister, the Honourable Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, in honour of Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Honourable Penny Wong, and her visit to Samoa.
The partnership will strengthen cyber incident preparedness and response, enhance secure digital systems, and support governance frameworks aligned with international standards and national priorities.
Samoa and Australia share concerns about the increasing prevalence of cybercrime targeting the Blue Pacific, including from cybercriminals, nation-state actors, and hackers. Cyber threats increasingly affect government services, businesses, and communities, particularly for young people online.
“Our partnership with Australia aligns with our vision of a safe digital world that reflects Samoa’s national values,” said Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt.
“Malicious cyber activity is a threat to the peace, stability and prosperity of our region. Cyber security cooperation with our Pacific partners strengthens our collective defence and resilience,” said Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Honourable Penny Wong.
SEA-PAC Cyber is a development assistance program to support Samoa’s cyber incident preparedness and response; provide secure and trusted technologies for cyber security; and strengthen Samoa’s governance of cybersecurity drawing from best practice international laws, norms and standards. Support will include the provision of new equipment and tools, technical assistance, and participation in international forums.
END.
Government of Samoa
Australian Government
Australian High Commission, Samoa
Photo Credit: Australian High Commission, Samoa & Government of Samoa
Source: Australian High Commission, Samoa & Government of Samoa