Vanuatu president dissolves Pacific island's parliament

President Nikenike Vurobaravu of Vanuatu has signed an order to dissolve the Pacific island's parliament, Vanuatu broadcaster VBTC reports.

Vurobaravu and Vanuatu's Prime Minister Charlot Salwai had been expected to face separate votes of no confidence in the parliament, after motions were lodged by the political opposition.

Vanuatu has experienced a period of political instability over 18 months, with three prime ministers in that time.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles visited Vanuatu in September, meeting with Salwai.

with AAP