For immediate release
29 August 2011
Australia to improve visa services in PNG
The opening of two Australian visa application centres in Port Moresby and Lae will result in faster processing of applications and demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to high-quality service in the region.
The changes to the way the Australian Government delivers services, announced by Australian High Commissioner Ian Kemish today, will see visa lodgement hours extended to 8.30am-4.30pm on weekdays, almost double existing times. Phone lines will also be open to handle travellers’ questions and enquiries, from 8.30am until 7pm weekdays.
“We’ve listened to the feedback from our clients, and I am pleased to announce the establishment of two Australian Visa Application Centres in PNG. I am especially happy to say that travellers in Lae will now find it considerably easier to gain access to visa services,” Mr Kemish said.
The changes are possible because PNG has been chosen as the first country in the Pacific where Australia will introduce its new Service Delivery Partner (SDP) arrangements.
The use of an SDP in other overseas locations has provided benefits including improved client services and processing efficiencies. Additional services will include an SMS alert service, internet kiosks, photocopying, and the issuing of passport photographs.
“As Australia’s closest neighbour and the largest Pacific Island country, it is only right that it is here that Australia looks to improve our visa processing systems in the Pacific,” Mr Kemish said.
Work on opening the new shopfronts is already under way, with doors expected to open to the public in both Port Moresby and Lae between September and October. Staff at the new centres will be trained to a professional standard, and applicants’ personal information will be protected in line with Australia’s privacy rules.
The SDP will have no involvement in the decision-making process. All applications will continue to be assessed and decided by the visa and immigration office at the Australian High Commission in accordance with migration legislation and policy. The new arrangements in PNG will not affect official visa applications (those accompanied by Third Person Notes from the PNG Government); these will continue to be accepted at the Australian High Commission.