PNG Haus Bung

Malahang Technical Secondary School is set to receive a K15 million infrastructure upgrade, following the launch of a major development package by the Australian Government and the Lae City Authority.The launch was attended by Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea His Excellency Ewen McDonald and Lae City Authority chairman and Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso.The projects will be funded by the Australian Government through its Incentive Fund and are scheduled for implementation from October 2026 to June 2027. The investment is intended to improve the school’s facilities and strengthen its capacity to deliver technical and vocational education.The planned works include construction of a new Tourism and Hospitality Centre, expansion and upgrading of the automotive workshop, and new ablution facilities. The package will also improve the school’s water supply, electrical systems, and supporting utilities, alongside modernizing facilities needed for technical and vocational training.The upgrades are expected to provide students with improved learning environments and access to facilities that better support practical training. The new hospitality centre and expanded automotive workshop will, in particular, strengthen the school’s capacity to offer hands-on instruction in key vocational areas.The investment is part of a broader program of development projects underway or planned in Lae. These include the Lae Main Market redevelopment, a new female dormitory at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, and health facilities at West Taraka and Tent City.The project announcement follows years of negotiations between Deputy Prime Minister Rosso and the Australian Government, according to the Lae City Authority. The authority described the Malahang investment as another outcome of that partnership and a significant commitment to education infrastructure in the city.Once completed, the works are expected to give Malahang Technical Secondary School improved facilities to support its students, staff and training programs.

The Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC) has commended 46 University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) student leaders who successfully completed a comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop on electoral processes.The full-day workshop, hosted in partnership with the UPNG Student Representative Council (SRC), is part of a nationwide civic awareness campaign ahead of the 2027 National General Election.The training equipped student leaders with the knowledge and tools required to become effective civic awareness advocates within their home communities and provinces. Participants explored critical phases of the electoral cycle, including voter enrolment, the Limited Preferential Voting (LPV) system, proper voting procedures, and the responsibilities of election stakeholders. The curriculum placed a heavy emphasis on safeguarding electoral integrity and boosting youth participation."When young people understand the electoral process, democracy is strengthened," said CCAC Secretariat representative Barbra Kunai. "Through this training, student leaders can become champions of electoral integrity. They will help their communities understand their rights, participate responsibly, and find the courage to reject all forms of corruption during election periods."Student participants also underscored the vital role citizens play in upholding democratic systems.Mr. Samuel Pisa, a second-year Business and Public Policy student, noted that while laws exist to govern elections, citizens must actively uphold them through responsible conduct, also was Mr. Jeremiah Paraji, a fourth-year Law student, who emphasized that widespread public awareness is crucial for ensuring citizens fully understand both their democratic rights and obligations.The workshop achieved three primary outcomes: arming student leaders with voter education resources, promoting the integrity of the electoral roll, and empowering participants to identify and report malpractice to deter electoral corruption.

PNG Kumuls assistant coach Paul Aiton has said that the team is focused on refining its performance from last week as it prepares to face Samoa this weekend.At today's Post match press conference at the Santos National Football Stadium, Aiton said, with limited time together in camp, the preparation had been short and at times “a little bit scrappy”, but the squad was working to sharpen the details ahead of the match.“We’re just sharpening up what we did in the last match,” he said.Aiton confirmed there were no changes to the lineup planned at this stage. He also praised the growth of several players who have returned to the Kumuls after playing overseas, including Gairo Voro, Finley Glare, and Morea Morea.“It’s really nice to see them grow. They’ve gone to the [overseas competition] and grown to another level,” Aiton said, pointing to their recent grand final success in London.Zac Laybutt said the squad was gelling well, with players coming together from Papua New Guinea, Australia and England. He also welcomed the cultural connection between the two teams, and the warm reception Samoa had received in PNG.“PNG loves the Samoans and loves every country that comes here,” Laybutt said. “I love coming over here. I love the people and the culture."Laybutt said the heat had not been a major adjustment after training in similarly hot conditions in Townsville, and that he was looking forward to the match.Asked about a teammate’s ability to handle the occasion, Laybutt said he expected the big stage to bring out his best.“I’ve never seen him go down. I’ve only seen him rise to the occasion and go beyond,” he said.Aiton described the fixture as a significant one, with strong interest surrounding the matchup. The Kumuls will look to carry their momentum from last week’s win into the weekend’s game against Samoa.

Four midwife trainees from Divine Word University’s (DWU) Rabaul campus have successfully completed a seven-week intensive rural clinical placement at the Vunapaka Health Centre. Located in the Reimber-Lassul Baining Local Level Government (LLG) of East New Britain Province, this marks the first time the Vunapaka facility has hosted students for such an assignment.The clinical placement is an integral component of the 18-month midwifery curriculum supported by the Australia Awards In-PNG Scholarships program. According to Eva Tamina, a midwife lecturer at DWU St. Mary’s School of Nursing, partnering with Vunapaka Health Centre allows academic instruction to be directly translated into lifesaving practical care where it is needed most.“The midwife trainees are attending to antenatal clinics, birth complications and other health care, where they are actually being assessed on how they are competent.”Beyond direct clinical duties, the trainees- hailing from New Ireland, Milne Bay, West Sepik, and Southern Highlands provinces, assisted by conducting in-service training sessions for local health staff. They also worked closely with the surrounding community, conducting health promotion activities and family planning sessions to encourage community ownership of health and well-being. Upon completion, the scholars will return to serve in their respective home provinces.Despite the ongoing training of specialized nurses, health educators remain concerned that many graduates may eventually move away from active midwifery practice. Ms. Tamina highlighted critical structural gaps in the national health system regarding maternal and child-care delivery.“There is no position and funding for nursing specialty areas such as for midwife, where midwiferies are leaving the provision of care and going into administrative jobs, becoming a challenge nationwide.”“This is something that really needs to be looked at so that health centres and other rural facilities have midwiferies present.”The Australia Awards In-PNG Scholarships program continues to support midwifery training across several key institutions, including St. Mary’s School of Nursing, Lutheran School of Nursing, the University of Papua New Guinea, Pacific Adventist University, and the University of Goroka.

Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to working with Papua New Guinea (PNG) to prevent and provide timely response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV).This commitment was made following Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy's visit the Bel isi PNG Case Management Centre in Port Moresby on 21 October.Minister Conroy met with frontline staff to familiarize himself on how the center manages confidential case and connects survivors with counselling, health care, police, legal assistance, safe accommodation and other services. The visit also highlighted the importance of cooperation between government, civil society, service providers, and the private sector.The minister recognised and commended case workers and partner organisations for helping survivors make informed decisions about their safety and recovery. He also noted the profound effect that GBV and SARV can have on individuals, families, and the communities.“Gender-Based Violence and Sorcery Accusation Related Violence cause profound harm to individuals, families, and communities. Australia is committed to working alongside Papua New Guinea to prevent violence, strengthen survivor-centred services and support PNG-led solutions,” Minister Conroy said.Australia provides its support through technical assistance through PNG Women Lead, including safe-house service standards, public financial management, sustainable financing and professional learning on survivor-centred services and coordination. This includes the pilot of the Safe Futures Fund, a government-led crisis response and resilience fund for gender-based violence, and Sorcery Accusation Related Violence.Bel isi PNG is a PNG public-private-civil society partnership that works with businesses, government and service providers to prevent and respond to family and sexual violence.

The Rabaul District Administration has partnered with Water PNG Limited to establish two new public water supply outlets in strategic locations across the district, providing vital relief during the ongoing prolonged dry season.The first outlet is located at the Kaivuna front in Ward 4 of the Rabaul Urban Local Level Government (LLG) along the Matupit-SSM Road, while the second has been established at Nonga village, positioned directly in front of the Balanataman LLG Office complex. Both facilities were officially launched today by representatives from the Rabaul District Administration and Water PNG in a ceremony witnessed by local public servants and community members.Under a three-year partnership agreement, Water PNG utilized its existing infrastructure to install the outlets, while the Rabaul District Administration has committed to covering all monthly utility bills. This arrangement guarantees that local residents receive clean, safe drinking water completely free of charge. Both stations will operate daily for public water refilling between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.Speaking at the launch, Rabaul District Administrator Mr. Freddy Lemeki emphasized the critical need for reliable water access during extended dry spells and expressed his appreciation to Water PNG for their swift collaboration.“Water is essential, and we thanked the Water PNG management for their understanding and willingness to partner with us using their existing water supply systems to set up taps for public use,” said Mr. Lemeki.The Kaivuna outlet in Ward 4 will serve residents of Rabaul Town, the Matupit and SSM corridors, and adjacent communities. Meanwhile, the Nonga village outlet at the Balanataman LLG chambers will supply water to Nonga, Tavui, and surrounding areas within the Balanataman and Kabiu LLG wards.With these two new sites operational, Rabaul District now manages three free public water supply points, adding to the existing main source at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul. Mr. Lemeki further revealed that efforts are currently underway to refurbish two water bores owned by Coconut Products Limited (CPL), which will eventually reticulate water directly to the Malaguna No. 2 Ward Hall.To ensure sustainability, Mr. Lemeki urged community members to respect and take ownership of the new infrastructure. He added that site attendants will maintain detailed tracking sheets at each location for monitoring and evaluation purposes.Representing Water PNG at the event, Team Leader for Water Production Mr. Mohu Moana commended the district administration for initiating the partnership and reaffirmed Water PNG’s commitment to ongoing cooperation for reliable service delivery.

Australia has come in to provide funding support to Papua New Guinea's efforts to assist communities impacted by the prolong dry weather brought on by the El Nino.Australia has announced an initial package of more than K21 million (approximately AUD 7 million) to help Papua New Guinea (PNG) prepare for and respond to the impacts of El Niño and drought conditions. The announcement was made at the 2026 Papua New Guinea-Australia Ministerial Forum.The package will support drought preparedness and response through investments in water security, health and humanitarian supplies, school feeding programs, and agricultural resilience initiatives.It will be delivered through trusted humanitarian, development and aviation partners with existing reach across Papua New Guinea.Visiting Papua New Guinea as part of the 32nd Australia-PNG Ministerial forum, Australia's Minister for Emergency Management, the Hon Kristy McBain MP, said Australia was acting early to help communities prepare for the impacts of worsening drought conditions.“Australia stands with Papua New Guinea as communities face the growing challenges posed by El Niño and prolonged dry conditions. Early action helps protect lives, livelihoods and essential services, while reducing the need for more costly emergency responses later,” Minister McBain said.“This support package reflects Australia's commitment to working alongside the Government of Papua New Guinea and our humanitarian partners to strengthen preparedness, reach vulnerable communities and build resilience to future disasters.”The package includes:K7.5 million (AUD 2.5 million) for NGOs to support water and food security, and other drought-related interventions in affected communities through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership.K7.5 million (AUD 2.5 million) for health and humanitarian supplies, including pre-positioning and delivery of essential items through partners such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the World Health Organization (WHO) and aviation partners.K3 million (AUD 1 million) for school feeding and nutrition support, expected to benefit more than 87,000 students across targeted provinces.K3 million (AUD 1 million) for drought monitoring, vulnerability assessments and the distribution of drought-resistant seed to support recovery and food security.Australia’s National Emergency Management Agency, which sits under Minister McBain’s portfolio has recently signed a partnership with PNG’s National Disaster Centre, to support Papua New Guinea’s coordination and response ability, working with local disaster abilities.This support builds on Australia's long-standing partnership with the MRA, through Geoscience Australia, and the National Weather Service with Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology.Australia will continue to work closely with the Government of Papua New Guinea, the United Nations, non-government organisations and other partners to monitor the evolving situation and ensure assistance reaches those most in need.

The Rabaul District Administration is continuing its ongoing water cartage exercise to provide immediate relief to wards, schools, health facilities, and churches across both origin and resettlement areas as severe El Niño impacts affect local communities. The distribution initiative, which commenced last month, aims to ensure safe drinking water reaches vulnerable populations facing critical shortages caused by the prolonged dry season across the district and country.During a recent District Disaster Committee meeting, Rabaul District Administrator and Committee Chairman, Mr. Freddy Lemeki, commended District Disaster Coordinator Mr. Tony Namur and his technical support staff for their dedicated efforts in coordinating relief operations and working tirelessly to deliver water.“This El Nino disaster presents a major challenge for us as a district administration operating with limited resources,” Mr. Lemeki said.“Frequent power outages, logistics constraints, and rising fuel costs continue to limit our coverage to other severely affected areas, particularly across the resettlement areas given the long distances.”He noted that the administration's primary priority is ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water, followed by addressing food security, bushfire prevention, potential disease outbreaks, and other health-related concerns.Mr. Lemeki also clarified that the anticipated K2.5 million El Niño Disaster Relief funding from the National Government has not yet been received by the district. The funds are currently parked at the National Banking Corporation (NBC) pending the establishment of district trust accounts and the issuance of amended Financial Instructions outlining spending guidelines.“At the moment we are relying on our existing project and program funds to assist with El Nino disaster related activities,” explained Mr. Lemeki.Providing an update on the operation, Mr. Namur stated that the water cartage exercise has covered almost all wards in both origin and resettlement areas. However, he noted that several communities still lack proper water catchments at central and neutral locations where residents can easily collect water.The water cartage team delivers up to 3,000 liters per trip and completes nine runs a day. Alongside water distribution, the team is inspecting existing water supply infrastructure, identifying systems that require quality testing and physical upgrades.To expand its reach, Rabaul District has partnered with Water PNG to establish two key water points in Ward 4 of Rabaul Town and Nonga in the Balanataman LLG. Additionally, the district is working closely with Coconut Products Limited (CPL) on a phased project to restore an existing bore that will supply water to the Malaguna 2 Ward Hall.The district water cartage team is distributing water to Watom Island this week and may continue operations into next week following an evaluation and assessment by the District Senior Executive Management and District Disaster Committee.

The Marape-Rosso Government has delivered K150 million to the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) to support preparations for the 2027 National General Elections.Minister for Finance Thomas Opa has officially presented a Dummy Cheque representing the K150 million allocation to newly-appointed Electoral Commissioner Dr Nicole Haley at Parliament’s State Function Room, following the Parliamentary session.The presentation was witnessed by Minister for Administrative Services Richard Masere and other officials.Minister Opa confirmed that the Funds had already been transferred to PNGEC, with the ceremonial presentation demonstrating the Government’s commitment to supporting preparations for the upcoming Elections.The occasion followed a comprehensive presentation by Dr Haley to Members of Parliament, outlining PNGEC’s Election preparations, strategic priorities and challenges ahead of 2027.The Funding forms part of the Marape-Rosso Government’s efforts to strengthen electoral administration, address operational challenges and support the conduct of credible, transparent and well-organised National Elections.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has hailed the official identity and inaugural jersey unveiling of the Papua New Guinea Chiefs as a monumental milestone for national unity, youth empowerment, and the enduring geopolitical partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.Speaking at a prestigious unveiling ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, which was attended by Australian Foreign Minister Senator Hon. Penny Wong, visiting Australian dignitaries, rugby league executives, and major corporate partners, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the PNG Chiefs’ official entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028 extends far beyond a sports franchise.“This is not just another sports business. This is about uniting the most diverse nation on the face of planet Earth,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “Sports and music unite society. Rugby league is our national sport, and through the PNG Chiefs, we have an opportunity to bring our people together behind one team, one nation, and one common purpose.”The Prime Minister extended profound gratitude to the Australian Government and Australian taxpayers for their decisive backing in securing PNG’s historic NRL dream. He highlighted that the project reflects a deep bilateral relationship built on shared geography, mutual sacrifice, and historical ties dating long before Papua New Guinea's independence in 1975.“We are bound by geography; we are bound by history, and what we are doing today is securing that future for our children,” said Prime Minister Marape. “I want to thank the Australian Government and every Australian taxpayer for making this dream possible. Your investment is not in vain. It will be returned many times over through stronger relationships between our governments, businesses, and, most importantly, our people.”Evoking the shared history of both nations, Prime Minister Marape recalled an account from an elderly village chief at Isurava along the Kokoda Track, noting that Papua New Guineans who protected Australian soldiers during the 1942 Kokoda campaign did so out of a shared defense of their homeland. “As it was during the war, we will always be there for Australia. Our two nations must continue walking together into the future,” he added.The Prime Minister paid special tribute to Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys and the NRL executive body for embracing the Pacific expansion initiative.Reflecting on PNG's foundational efforts to enter the premier competition, Prime Minister Marape noted his involvement with the government in 2008 under founding Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, whose initial vision utilized rugby league to galvanize national solidarity.A key highlight of the franchise development was the direct involvement of local children in selecting the team’s identity and jersey design:Youth-Driven Design: The team logo, colors, and identity were co-selected by the next generation of Papua New Guineans.Cultural Heritage: The inaugural jersey features bespoke artwork by celebrated Papua New Guinean artist Tabu Pelei Warupi, reflecting the nation's diverse heritage.Leadership Core: Strategic operations are led by PNG Chiefs Chair Catherine Harris, Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson, and inaugural Head Coach Willie Peters.Sharing his own personal trajectory from a remote village in PNG where he did not learn English until Grade Eight, Prime Minister Marape used the platform to inspire youth across the nation's 800+ linguistic groups.“Where you start in life does not matter as much as how you finish the race. Find a sport, find a passion, find a purpose in life, and contribute to uniting this beautiful diversity that we call Papua New Guinea,” the Prime Minister urged. “One nation, one people, one country, one team. That spirit will live forever. The PNG Chiefs belong to you and to the generations who will follow.”

Papua New Guinea is looking to strengthen its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system through closer cooperation with Australia to better prepare young people for employment.Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Kinoka Feo, stressed the need to improve vocational training systems, expand industry-based training and apprenticeships, and strengthen the capacity of training institutions.Speaking at the PNG–Australia Ministerial Forum in Port Moresby on October 21, Minister Feo acknowledged Australia's longstanding support for PNG's education sector through Australia Awards Scholarships and Australian-supported vocational training programmes.“Australia has been a longstanding partner in developing our human resources. We acknowledge and sincerely appreciate the investment made in educating and training Papua New Guineans over many years.”Minister Feo also commended the quality of training facilities, practical instruction and industry-focused skills delivered through Australian-supported vocational programmes.“We must ensure that the skills acquired through training translate into meaningful employment opportunities.”The Minister said training institutions must respond to workforce needs both within Papua New Guinea and internationally.He also highlighted the proposed PNG–Australia Skills, Employment and Labour Mobility Action Plan as an opportunity to develop stronger employment pathways for qualified Papua New Guineans in Australia.Minister Feo said closer coordination between government agencies, training institutions and employers would be important in identifying priority occupations, aligning training standards and creating employment opportunities.“Education must not end with graduation. It must create opportunities for our young people to enter the workforce, contribute to economic development and improve their livelihoods.”

Household brand National No1 has officially announced its sponsorship of Papua New Guinean professional boxing champion John Ume, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to backing local talent and celebrating homegrown excellence on the global stage.The partnership arrives fresh off Ume's monumental international victory earlier this month in Auckland, New Zealand, where he secured the BX-9 Interim Welterweight Championship by defeating Hamzy Perwaisy with a spectacular seventh-round technical knockout (TKO).Through this strategic corporate backing, National No1 will fuel Ume’s upcoming professional training, development, and international bouts as he champions PNG pride across the global sports landscape.Speaking on behalf of WR Carpenter Group Papua New Guinea, Liza-Marie Brooks highlighted that the partnership bridges two entities driven by a shared ethos of resilience, discipline, and national pride."At National No1, we're passionate about supporting Papua New Guineans who embody the values of determination, perseverance, and excellence," said Liza-Marie Brooks. "John has achieved remarkable success through hard work, discipline, and determination. We are incredibly proud to stand alongside him as he continues to pursue even greater success both at home and internationally.""John's recent championship win was a proud moment for Papua New Guinea and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication," Brooks added. "We look forward to supporting his journey and celebrating future historic milestones together."For more than a century, National No1 has been an integral part of households, families, and grassroots communities across Papua New Guinea. By aligning with John Ume—whose career has been built from the ground up through grit and perseverance—the brand reinforces its century-long legacy of investing in local communities and driving positive national narratives.Further details regarding upcoming match schedules, public appearances, and collaborative community boxing initiatives under this partnership will be released by National No1 in the coming months.