PNG Haus Bung

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.

Church leaders from across Papua New Guinea today launched a new national strategy to address Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) at a special event in Goroka attended by church leaders, government representatives and provincial officials. The strategy brings churches together around a common commitment to prevent violence, support survivors, and help communities move away from fear and accusation.The strategy sends a clear message: no person should be harmed, tortured, displaced or killed because they have been accused of sorcery. Churches are committing to promote peace, protect life, and uphold the dignity of every person.Speaking at the launch, Rev Roger Joseph, General Secretary of the Papua New Guinea Council of Churches, said churches were united in their determination to confront the issue."Today, churches across Papua New Guinea are standing together to say that Sorcery Accusation Related Violence must stop," said Reverend Joseph. "Violence is always unacceptable. It goes against the values of love, compassion, and respect that are shared by all people of faith."The strategy, developed by the PNG Council of Churches with support from the PNG-Australia Partnership, commits churches to take action through their existing networks across the country. Churches will train pastors and church leaders, provide teaching on non-violence and human dignity, support people affected by accusations, help calm tensions when accusations arise, work alongside police and health workers, support safehouses and counselling services, and use church schools, health services, radio stations and community programmes to raise awareness.While churches are committing to play their part, church leaders said a stronger national response is also needed.Reverend Joseph called on the Government of Papua New Guinea to deliver on its recent promises to tackle SARV and work with the Churches to deliver its long-delayed SARV National Action Plan."We welcomed the Prime Minister’s statement to Parliament this week where he committed to funding the National Action Plan, establishing a coordinated secretariat and involving frontline organisations in efforts to protect victims and bring perpetrators to justice.” said Reverend Joseph.“The Churches are ready to work with the Government to put an end to SARV for good.”The Churches’ SARV strategy aligns closely with the Government’s National Action Plan while recognising the unique role churches play in shaping attitudes, values and community behaviors across Papua New Guinea

Australia will provide all medical equipment and furniture for the new Moresby South Hospital, plus two advanced life support ambulances to boost health services in the capital.According to a media release, the support will help the hospital open and begin serving the Moresby South and wider community in 2027.The planned services include emergency care, outpatient care and up to ten labour and delivery beds, a significant boost to maternity services in Port Moresby.Australia’s package will include X-ray machines, cold-chain fridges, beds and stretchers, along with furniture and equipment for clinical, administrative and waiting areas.The St John Ambulance PNG will operate the two new ambulances to serve the hospital and broader Port Moresby population. Australia will also provide a year’s supply of medicines and consumables for the hospital and ambulances.During a recent visit to the hospital, Australia’s Foreign Minister, Senator Penny Wong confirmed the support.“I am delighted to confirm Australia will provide the furniture, fittings and equipment needed to help get this hospital up and running. Good health care matters to all of us. It matters to mothers and babies, so kids get the best possible start. It helps people get the treatment they need, and it builds stronger, healthier communities,” Foreign Minister Wong said.Also present during the visit was Foreign Minister, Justin Tkatchenko who welcomed the partnership, saying the hospital would “look after you in your time of need”.Australia said the support reflects its longstanding health partnership with Papua New Guinea and commitment to improving health outcomes, particularly for women and children.

Papua New Guinea will soon have a one-stop digital platform for travellers, with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority announcing plans to develop a Tourism Super App.Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Erick Mossman Uvovo announced the proposed app during the Gala Dinner at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, following the close of the two-day PNG Tourism Summit and Trade Exhibition 2026.Mr. Uvovo said the app is designed as a pocket-sized platform that brings together tourism information, destination experiences and travel services in one place.“The way people discover destinations and plan their travel is changing. We must embrace digital innovation to make Papua New Guinea more accessible to travellers and ensure visitors can find the information they need to explore our country with greater convenience and confidence,” he said.The Super App will allow users to discover destinations, explore cultural experiences, access travel information and receive real time safety updates to help them make informed decisions.PNGTPA says the platform will not only improve the visitor experience but also give tourism operators and service providers a wider platform to showcase their products and services.Mr. Uvovo said the initiative is critical to strengthening PNG's competitiveness in the regional and international tourism markets as travellers increasingly rely on mobile apps to research and plan trips.The app is expected to boost the visibility of PNG's diverse offerings, from cultural festivals and village experiences to adventure tourism, marine attractions and hospitality services.The announcement aligns with the Summit theme, “Reset for Success: Harnessing PNG's Tourism and Hospitality, the Hub of the Pacific,” which brought together government agencies, tourism operators, investors and development partners to discuss collaboration, investment and innovation in the sector.PNGTPA Tourism Super App initiative signals the Authority’s intention to embrace digital solutions as part of its broader efforts to promote Papua New Guinea as a destination of choice in the Pacific.

Prime Minister James Marape has commended the Board, management, coaching staff, players, and their families for their dedication to Papua New Guinea, particularly praising those who have chosen to leave the comforts of their own homes to relocate to Port Moresby.Prime Minister Marape extended the praise following the official unveiling of the PNG Chiefs’ inaugural jersey in Port Moresby.“I sincerely commend Board Chair Catherine Harris, the entire Board, Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson, Head Coach Willie Peters, management, coaching and support staff, and all players for their commitment to Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said.“Many of you have chosen to leave the comforts of your own land, homes and familiar surroundings to come and join us here in Port Moresby.” “You could have remained in your own comfortable environments, but instead you have chosen to believe in Papua New Guinea and become part of our historic journey into the National Rugby League.”“I especially thank your wives, partners and children, who are also making personal sacrifices by leaving behind their homes, schools, friends and familiar surroundings to support this historic journey.”“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I sincerely thank you and your families for this tremendous commitment.”Prime Minister Marape particularly acknowledged seven foundation senior players- Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax, Brian To’o, and Joseph Manu, who have committed to representing the PNG Chiefs starting in 2028. He also recognized Papua New Guinean development players Gairo Voro, Morea Morea, and Finley Glare.“To all our players, thank you for believing in Papua New Guinea and choosing to become part of our national rugby league dream.”“I assure you that you are not coming here as strangers. You are coming to a country where rugby league is deeply loved and where our people will welcome you as part of our extended family.” “I encourage all Papua New Guineans, particularly our people in Port Moresby, to embrace the PNG Chiefs family and make them feel welcome, safe and at home.”“Papua New Guinea will be your home away from home, and together we will build a club that our nation can be proud of.”The PNG Chiefs are scheduled to enter the NRL in March 2028, playing their home matches at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

Papua New Guineans will now benefit from a more reliable, secure and affordable digital connectivity under an expanded digital partnership between PNG and Australia.Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with PNG’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Justin Tkatchenko, and Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Robert Naguri.Under the agreement, the two countries will enter into an overarching MoU to establish a shared strategic framework for a comprehensive digital, critical technology and telecommunications partnership, with the aim of supporting PNG's digital transformation, affirming Australia as Papua New Guinea's ICT partner of choice and strengthening bilateral cooperation.During the meeting, Penny Wong stated that the agreement will not only strengthen connectivity but create more economic opportunities for Papua New Guineans.“A more connected Papua New Guinea is a more resilient Papua New Guinea – stronger connectivity means stronger communities and greater economic opportunity.” Wong said.Australia’s minister for Pacific Islands affairs, Pat Conroy, also mirrored similar sentiments.“Reliable and affordable internet can transform how people access services, do business and connect with each other.” he said.