A group of Australian special police have headed to the Solomon Islands, with more on the way alongside ADF personnel.

Australia is helping local authorities restore peace in capital Honiara, as protestors continue to riot and burn down buildings.

Locals are angry with the government over the country’s deteriorating economy.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne confirmed the “welcome presence” of Australians in the Solomon Islands to Ben Fordham.

“This is about Australia contributing to stability in our region … at the direct request of the Solomon Islands government under our bilateral security treaty.”

The population’s unrest over Beijing’s influence in their backyard “are matters for the Solomon Islands themselves”, she said.

“We’re not going to comment on those or engage in those.”

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