09 August 2023 Apia Samoa. Australia recognises the critical role the Samoa Bureau of Statistics plays in ensuring decision-makers are informed by accurate and comprehensive data.
The Australian Deputy High Commissioner, Ms. Claire McGeechan, yesterday presented equipment to the Chief Executive Officer of the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, Leota Ali’ielua Salani, to support their work as they undertake their Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES).
The equipment package includes laptops, tablets, and statistical software which will contribute to the collection of HIES data.
This survey, which collects household level data on income, expenditure, and living conditions, will ensure that the Government of Samoa and its partners are able to provide targeted support to where it’s most needed.
Australia’s broad financial support earmarked for the HIES totals WST$1.2 million, with the equipment presented part of a total equipment and software package of WST$140,000.
“Australia is pleased to support the Samoa Bureau of Statistics’ Household Income and Expenditure Survey which will offer critical insights into Samoa’s socio-economic landscape,” said Ms. Claire McGeechan, Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Samoa.
“The data gathered will inform decision-making and policy development at all levels and contribute to Samoa’s aspirations for an equitable and prosperous nation.”
The Chief Executive Officer of the Samoa Bureau of Statistics thanked the Government of Australia on behalf of the Government and People of Samoa.
“Thank you for your commitment in assisting the Samoa Bureau of Statistics in ensuring that the survey is equipped with the right office equipment to further improve the collection and dissemination of statistics. This will also serve as a continuous reminder of the close relationship between our two countries,” said Leota Ali’ielua Salani.
The HIES is conducted by SBS every five years; 2002, 2008, 2013/14, 2018 and now 2023. The survey runs from for 44 weeks from 30 January to 01 December 2023 and will collect information on income earned as well as expenditure in the last 12 months from selected households.
Objectives of the survey
1. To collect information on the income distribution and consumption patterns of household
2. To provide information for poverty analysis
3. To provide information on food security and nutrition
4. To provide information for the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Consumer Price Index (CPI)
5. To collect sociodemographic and economic data to populate national, regional and global indicators like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
Australia’s support for the HIES is multifaceted, encompassing financial assistance, equipment, software, technical expertise, and capability building.
This support was provided through the Tautai – Governance for Economic Growth Partnership between the Governments of Australia and Samoa.
The Tautai Partnership focuses on supporting the Government of Samoa’s fiscal governance, public financial management, debt sustainability, and policies and services that translate economic growth into improved community well-being.
