PNG Haus Bung

This year marks 75 years since Australian volunteers started serving in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in working alongside local organisations in education to sports.Their work in education, health, emergency services and sport to share skills, strengthen institutions through capacity building, creating opportunities, build lasting professional and personal connections while supporting PNG’s priorities.2026 marks 75 years of Australian volunteers supporting development outcomes across the Indo-Pacific. Since the program began, more than 1,700 Australians have volunteered in PNG, contributing their skills while building lasting connections between the people of both countries.Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor, Madeleine Moss, says the volunteers service deepens the enduring connections between Australia and PNG.“People are at the heart of the Australia–Papua New Guinea partnership. By working side by side with Papua New Guinean colleagues, Australian Volunteers share skills, strengthen organisations and create opportunities that benefit communities. Their service deepens the enduring connections between our two countries.”Furthermore, a cohort of Australian Volunteers based in Port Moresby recently visited the Australian High Commission to discuss their work with Papua New Guinean partner organisations and the communities they serve.Their assignments show the diverse ways Australians and Papua New Guineans are working side by side to build capability, create opportunities and strengthen enduring professional and personal connections.The cohort were made of Daniel Everett, who is supporting lecturers and student teachers at Sacred Heart Teachers College; Peter McLean who is working with St John Ambulance as a People and Culture Systems Mentor; and Anthony Healy who is serving with Cricket PNG as a Cricket Development and Inclusion Mentor.

Westpac PNG delivered free financial literacy training to more than 9,000 people across Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the 2026 financial year (FY26).According to a statement, Westpac PNG delivered 109 hours of education across 67 sessions, reaching 9,013 participants from Port Moresby to Goroka and beyond.Women made up 53 percent of participants and men 47 percent, the training was delivered face-face, through webinars and regional outreach.The program reached students, youth and church groups, community organisations, employees, corporate customers and small businesses.Participants were taught practical skills in budgeting, saving money management and business planning, including through Westpac’s Financial Basics for My Business training.Westpac Pacific Head of Corporate Affairs, Marketing and Community, Rachel White, said the FY26 result showed the opportunity to make financial knowledge more accessible to people and businesses across PNG.“Financial Knowledge plays an important role in giving people greater confidence in the decisions they make about their money,” Ms. White said.“What makes this program valuable is its practical focus, whether we’re working with a student learning the basics, a community group or a small business looking to strengthen its financial management.”She said reaching more than 9,000 people was a result the bank was proud of, with a focus on continuing to make financial education accessible to more Papua New Guineans.In the first quarter of FY26 alone, 1,072 people took part in 18 sessions, including schools and corporate customer sessions delivered in person and online. The program has continued to broaden the way financial literacy is delivered in PNG.Westpac said the focus in FY26 also includes improvement to training resources, participant tracking, testimonials and impact reporting to help strengthen program delivery and measurement.The bank’s free financial literacy program has been running across the pacific since 2007, providing education, resources, and tools designed to build financial knowledge and confidence.Westpac will continue to build on the program’s reach across communities and businesses, by supporting more Papua New Guineans with practical financial knowledge.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has rejected internal Treasury projections circulating in the public space that claim the revised fiscal arrangements for the Papua LNG project will cause a K28 billion revenue deficit by 2035. Speaking ahead of the project’s Final Investment Decision (FID) deadline on December 15, 2026, Prime Minister Marape stated that the government has not compromised its long-term financial position and that the local economy will instead expand through a combined K70 billion capital investment program.He emphasized that this includes the project’s US$14.5 billion capital expenditure, valued at about K60 billion under baseline financial modelling. PM Marape further clarified that Papua LNG represents the initial step in a broader economic roadmap designed to expand total sector activity through sequential resource developments.Marape confirmed he has directed the Department of Treasury to reconcile its data with the State Negotiating Team (SNT) during a scheduled meeting on Monday this week.He noted that while the petroleum tax from the existing PNG LNG project may experience a temporary decline due to accelerated depreciation schedules, the revenue will be fully recovered once Papua LNG enters production.  He also emphasized that the multi-billion-kina construction phase starting in 2027 will immediately broaden the national tax base via goods and services tax (GST), corporate income tax (CIT), and personal income tax (PIT)."I want to say from the outset – and someone can hold me to my words – that in 2029, there will not be a drop in PNG government revenue," Prime Minister Marape promised. "We don't see it just from the lenses of five-year revenue loss. We look at it from the context of intergenerational benefit and value chain to the economy."According to State Negotiating Team (SNT) briefings, the Treasury analysis inaccurately categorizes temporary timing deferrals and State equity financing as permanent financial losses.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), in partnership with the National Department of Health (NDoH), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and partner health facilities, has initiated a series of sensitization, vaccination training, social mobilization, and microplanning workshops.These preparations lead up to the rollout of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Project across the National Capital District in November.The orientation and training workshops brought together clinic managers and healthcare workers from NCDPHA-managed facilities alongside four participating private health providers: Mobile Doctors Private Clinic, CPL Wellness Clinic, Karua Medical Center, and Aharoni Private Medical Center.The program aims to equip frontline health workers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and implementation strategies to deliver the vaccination program effectively while leading community awareness campaigns.Targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years, the HPV vaccine provides crucial protection against the Human Papillomavirus, a leading cause of cervical cancer among women worldwide.NCDPHA strongly supports the initiative, emphasizing that the upcoming rollout represents a major investment in preventive healthcare for young girls and future generations.NCDPHA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Robin Oge highlighted the critical role of these workshops in preparing healthcare personnel to communicate accurate information and build community confidence.“The HPV vaccine is a safe, effective, and proven public health intervention that protects girls from HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer later in life,” Dr. Oge said.“Through these trainings, we are equipping our healthcare workforce with the tools and knowledge needed to support families and communities throughout the rollout.”Dr. Oge also recognized the collaborative effort required to prepare for the launch.“This training marks an important milestone in our collective effort to safeguard the health and future of young girls in the National Capital District.”“I would like to sincerely acknowledge the National Department of Health, WHO, UNICEF, our partner clinics, and all participating healthcare workers for their commitment to ensuring the successful introduction of the HPV vaccine in NCD.”In light of the upcoming launch, NCDPHA is appealing to parents and guardians to visit their nearest health facility for information and to support eligible girls aged 9 to 14 years in receiving the vaccine once the rollout begins.

The Australia Pavilion showed up in numbers at the Morobe Show over the weekend, displaying their longstanding partnership focused on supporting economic development, regional stability and strong people to-people connections.The Australian Pavilion’s presence showcased Australia's partnership with Papua New Guinea (PNG) through interactive displays, information booths and community engagement activities. The pavilion partnered with development programs and local partners to provide information on initiatives supporting health, education, economic growth, infrastructure, gender equality, climate resilience, community development and sport.The 2026 Morobe Show provided an important opportunity to engage directly with Papua New Guineans from across Morobe Province and beyond. An estimated over 5,000 showgoers visited the Australian Pavilion during the event.Consul-General Brenton Kanowski said the strong community response reflected the warmth and enduring strength of the relationship between Australia and PNG.“The Morobe Show brings people together, and it was a privilege to speak with so many visitors about the practical ways Australia and Papua New Guinea are working side by side,” Mr. Kanowski said.Representatives from Australian-supported programs and partner organisations shared information about their work through interactive displays, educational materials and activities demonstrating the practical outcomes of the development partnership.Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae, John Rosso DPS MP, welcomed Australia’s participation and the focus on cooperation that delivers tangible benefits for communities.“The Morobe Show is an important national event and a proud showcase for our province and Lae city.” “Australia’s continued participation in the Show demonstrates the strength of our partnership and our shared focus on practical cooperation that supports the priorities of Papua New Guinea and its people,” Rosso said.The Australian Government thanked the Morobe Provincial Agricultural Show Society, participating partners and visitors for helping make this year’s event a success.

Kairuku district in Central province is experiencing humanitarian and livelihood distress from the prolonged El Nino induced drought.A recent ground survey conducted by the district's Community Development Officer, Paul Aluofo, indicates an escalating emergency affecting food security, water access, and public health.According to Mr. Aluofo's disaster report, the three Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Mekeo, Kairuku and Kuni are bearing severe impacts with water scarcity, and food insecurity.According to the reports, natural creeks, shallow wells and traditional water sources have all dried, forcing villagers to rely on unsafe water sources, increasing health risks. "Staple garden food has withered under intense heat, threatening immediate food security and household sustenance," he said.He said waterborne illnesses are placing more strain on local health facilities in the area.He said to prevent further deterioration of living conditions and human distress, a report has been compiled by his office requesting the Central Province administration and the disaster office to intervene."The situation in the three LLGs of Kairuku requires urgent coordinated multi sectoral intervention, whilst the Community Development Division remains committed to assist on-ground logistics and community mobilisation for relief efforts," he said.He further urged the local MP Peter Isoaimo and the Kairuku District Development Authority to intervene and address the distressing situation faced by the local communities in the district.

State institutions in the capital of Gulf province go up in flames as the Koraea Haus burns this morning.The Member (MP) for Kerema and Finance Minister, Thomas Opa, has confirmed that the Treasury office, the Gulf Provincial Assembly and the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) office were destroyed by fire when fire broke out at the Koraea Haus in the early hours of the morning at Kerema town.“This is a sad time for Gulf Province waking up to news that the Koraea Haus that houses Gulf Treasury office, the Provincial Assembly and IRC in Kerema Town has gone up in flames early hours of the morning. We will rebuild again better and stronger,” said the MP.The cause of the fire remains unknown and will be uncovered later as the fire still burns.

Twelve gunmen have died after opening fire on police during a robbery attempt in Kimbe this morning, Monday, 26 October 2026.Commissioner of Police David Manning said the outcome of the armed robbery should serve as a warning to criminals that the public and police will no longer tolerate violent offending.“Today, a group of armed men robbed a trade store in Kimbe and attempted to flee in a stolen vehicle. While attempting to escape from police, the criminals’ getaway vehicle rolled, resulting in the deaths of several passengers.“Those who were not seriously injured in the rollover subsequently drew their weapons and opened fire on police officers.“Police standing orders and the law are clear: when a criminal raises a weapon, they will be stopped,” the Commissioner said.“A total of 12 gunmen died in the incident, while one man, believed to be the ringleader of the group, survived and is in police custody.“Police officers recovered stolen currency, along with a sizeable quantity of weapons and ammunition, from the vehicle. Investigations into the incident are continuing, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.“The protection of innocent people is the priority for police. The RPNGC will not shy away from enforcing the law and protecting communities from criminal gangs.“Our stance against criminal gangs is firm, but there is still a way forward for young people who have been drawn into gang life. I call on them to turn away from violence, reconnect with their families and communities, and choose a lawful and productive future.”Minister for Police, the Honourable John Pundari, commended the swift intervention of RPNGC personnel.“I commend the police officers on the front line in West New Britain who have confronted criminals involved in two armed robberies over the past four days.“This follows an incident last Friday in which a group of gunmen robbed a PMV near Kimbe and were confronted by a lone police officer. Following an exchange of gunfire, one gunman was killed, while the others fled into the bush.“These incidents demonstrate that police will respond forcefully to confront criminals who choose to use illegal firearms. The firearm amnesty provides a clear opportunity for people to surrender illegal firearms without fear of prosecution, and they should take advantage of it.”Further updates on the ongoing investigations will be provided when information can be released.

Over ten criminals were allegedly shot dead by police this morning in Kimbe, West New Britain province after a botched armed robbery by the criminal gang.It was alleged that the criminal gang attempted to rob at shop in Kimbe town when police pounced on them, killing all thirteen of them. The gang were in a vehicle and armed with mostly homemade guns, machetes and other form of weapons.It is understood that the provincial law and order committee, which includes the provincial police commander, is currently in a closed door meet deliberating on the incident and on further law and order measures to take.PNG Hausbung will provide more details to this story as more information is gathered.

Air Niugini is urging passengers to exercise heightened caution when using, charging, and traveling with lithium battery-powered electronics, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and power banks.The notice comes after a minor electrical fire and smoke incident occurred on Saturday, October 24, at the Domestic Kumul Club Lounge at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby.The event was triggered by a power bank drawing excessive current while charging. Staff and lounge members contained the small fire quickly, ensuring no injuries or major damage occurred.Lithium batteries represent one of the most common hidden dangerous goods carried aboard flights, posing severe fire risks if damaged, swollen, exposed to extreme heat, or connected to incompatible and uncertified charging equipment.To prevent future hazards, the airline advises travelers to rely exclusively on manufacturer-approved chargers, refrain from using compromised devices, and never leave charging electronics unattended.Passengers are also urged to answer all dangerous goods screening questions accurately during check-in to assist airline staff in mitigating potential risks prior to boarding.Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne reaffirmed that passenger safety remains the airline’s primary focus across all ground and flight operations.“Lithium battery-powered devices have become an essential part of daily life, but they must be used and handled responsibly.”“We encourage our customers to take simple precautions when charging and travelling with these devices, as awareness and vigilance are key to preventing incidents and ensuring the safety of everyone.”Mr. Milne added that Air Niugini actively promotes dangerous goods awareness across the aviation sector to maintain compliance with international safety protocols.“The safe usage and transport of dangerous goods requires strict compliance with international aviation regulations.”“Through our training programmes and customer awareness initiatives, we continue to help reduce risks and strengthen safety across our operations and the wider aviation industry.”In addition to passenger guidelines, Air Niugini offers accredited dangerous goods training for its staff as well as external organizations handling regulated shipments.Qualified instructors deliver customized, on-site training sessions for large corporate groups.Organizations seeking further details or booking information can reach Air Niugini by phone at (675) 327 1481 / 73725101 or via email at mtugano@airniugini.com.pg.

Prime Minister James Marape has hailed the new solar street lighting set up at the Hope Institute in his electorate in the Hela province.The prime minister expressed his satisfaction when presiding over the official handover ceremony recently of the China-Aided Solar Street Light and Solar Storage Integrated Project at the Hope Institute in the Tari-Pori District of Hela Province, hailing the initiative as a transformative milestone for local education, sustainable development, and green energy innovation.Speaking to a delegation of local leaders, provincial officials, residents, and Chinese government representatives - led by the Chinese Ambassador, Yang Xiaoguang, Prime Minister Marape expressed deep gratitude to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China for the project, valued between K15 million and K20 million.The solar initiative features a 1-megawatt power system (with 0.5 megawatts dedicated to the Hope Institute and nearby community infrastructure) designed to provide stable, clean energy to local classrooms, residential areas, and emerging vocational training centers.Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the solar and storage initiative represents true South-South cooperation between two developing nations without onerous conditions.The project originated from a 2023 bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on environmental cooperation signed in Beijing and witnessed by PM Marape and Chinese President Xi Jinping.Commending China as a global leader in renewable energy transitions, Prime Minister Marape noted that bringing solar power to Hela Province directly aligns with climate change mitigation efforts.Prime Minister Marape highlighted that the green project helps offset carbon footprints associated with resource extraction in the region, including the PNG LNG project.Speaking on the history of the Hope Institute, which was established in a swampy area in 2013 to offer second-chance education, Prime Minister Marape revealed that the institute has successfully graduated more than 1,529 Grade 12 students to date.He emphasized that reliable electricity is critical to supporting students."Without education, this power is useless. Power must go into the homes of children who are in school so that our future leaders are prepared."The imported solar energy will directly supply power to upcoming technical and vocational programs at the Hope Institute, including textile manufacturing, automotive repair, animal husbandry, poultry, and carpentry, aimed at equipping local youths with practical life and business skills.In a personal reflection, Prime Minister Marape noted the symbolic alignment of the project with his local heritage, referring to his ancestral roots as belonging to the "Tribe of the Sun."To further strengthen ties and improve local employment prospects with Chinese enterprises operating across Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Marape announced ongoing efforts to station a Chinese language instructor at the institute.Prime Minister Marape confirmed he will personally convey Papua New Guinea’s appreciation to President Xi Jinping during their upcoming bilateral interactions at the APEC Summit next month in Shenzhen. Prime Minister Marape called on local leaders, councilors, and community members across Hela Province to take strong ownership of the facility and protect the critical infrastructure for future generations."From nothing, we can make it happen. Hope Institute will continue to incubate the next generation of Hela businessmen, businesswomen, tradesmen, and leaders who will meaningfully contribute to the growth of Papua New Guinea."

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a blunt directive to the country’s economic leadership, ordering state agencies to pivot from merely spending public money to actively driving revenue generation through a robust non-resource sector.Speaking at Melanesian House during the official rollout of the newly established Growth and Economic Reform National Coordinating Committee (GER-NCC), Prime Minister Marape warned senior bureaucrats that structural economic reforms must be accelerated to outpace Papua New Guinea's rapid demographic growth.The Prime Minister established strict economic milestones for the country's financial leadership, emphasizing that non-resource growth must anchor the national trajectory:• By 2030: Elevate the current K140 billion economy to K200 billion, supported by a K50 billion national budget.• By 2040: Achieve a K300 billion economy.• By 2050: Achieve a K500 billion economy."Everything else you hear today, if you forget, go away with these two numbers – K200 billion economy, K50 billion budget... minimum starting point," Prime Minister Marape stated.While major resource extraction ventures dominate headlines, Treasury Department data confirms that long-term national wealth lies in the everyday non-resource economy, including agriculture, retail, manufacturing, and transport.Treasury models reveal that lifting the nation's real non-resource growth rate by just 0.1 percent annually will inject K709 billion into the GDP by 2050. By comparison, the combined lifetime economic contribution of all seven planned mega-resource projects—including Papua LNG, Wafi-Golpu, and Pasca—is projected at K189 billion by the same year.The Prime Minister emphasized that these targets are an urgent economic necessity, underscored by 2024 national census data showing that 59 percent of Papua New Guinea's population is under the age of 25."If these statistics don't ring an alarm bell in your head, you're running around as a leper in our country – numb and not feeling anything," the Prime Minister warned. "A child at 25 today will be a father of three or four just 10 years from today. He must be employed to look after his children. Time flies, and we cannot waste time."Departments have been ordered to immediately fast-track land mobilization, upgrade infrastructure, and harmonize cross-agency policies to foster job creation for the incoming generation.To cut through bureaucratic red tape without creating an entirely new government department, the GER-NCC will function as a streamlined, centralized coordination mechanism:• Leadership: Chaired by Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey and modeled after the deadline-driven framework of the State's Financial Action Task Force.• Funding: Supported by a K10 million annual budget to fund a dedicated Secretariat housed within the Department of Treasury.• Composition: Comprises the chief executives of 22 State bodies, including the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), and the departments of Finance, Agriculture, and National Planning.• Private Sector Inclusion: The Business Council of PNG and the PNG Chamber of Commerce and Industry will participate as formal observers.The committee will operate under rigid operational timelines to prevent stagnation. Full committee sessions will take place monthly, supplemented by weekly technical working group meetings.Agency performance will be tracked via a single, transparent "Reform Matrix." Non-performance will be escalated directly up the chain of command, with mandatory progress updates delivered to the National Executive Council (NEC) every quarter.