Australia supports Walk against corruption
Staff at the Australian High Commission Port Moresby again joined in the annual Walk Against Corruption on Sunday 14 June.
Australia is a long standing supporter of Transparency International (TI) PNG through the Strongim Pipol Strongim Nesen program.
Australia’s approach to promoting anti-corruption efforts in PNG includes supporting criminal enforcement through initiatives such as the partnership between the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Royal PNG Constabulary police force and building on existing accountability frameworks in PNG society which include vibrant civil society organisations such as TIPNG.
Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Ms Deborah Stokes, said corruption is a serious problem worldwide.
“It inhibits economic growth and slows development, and therefore impacts on poverty reduction. Corruption reduces resources available for basic services. It often impacts on the poorest members of society,” Ms Stokes said.
“The Australian Government has a Zero Tolerance Policy against fraud and corruption and strongly supports the PNG National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2010-2025.”
The Walk raised funds for TIPNG’s Siaguru Endowment Fund. Australia has provided K10.6 million to TIPNG since 2011 to assist with advocacy against corruption.