As part of Papua New Guinea and Australia’s Bilateral Security Agreement, the 28 August 2024 official opening of the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP) Mt Hagen Office marks the beginning of the next phase of Australia’s support for law enforcement cooperation activities in Western Highlands Province.
Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Dr Joanne Loundes, said that the opening of the new PNG-APP facility demonstrates Australia’s ongoing commitment to PNG under the Bilateral Security Agreement, signed by both countries in December 2023.
“We understand that, as PNG’s primary security partner, we need to remain responsive to your security needs and to deliver priority projects and programs quickly,” Dr Loundes said.
“PNG’s security effects Australia’s security. A more secure and prosperous PNG means a safer Australia.
“Investments, like the opening of the PNG-APP Office here in Mt Hagen, demonstrate our commitment to delivering security support tailored to PNG’s security needs.”
Through the PNG-APP, Australia continues to work closely with the RPNGC to deliver equipment, assets and training that will help PNG develop a world class police force. PNG-APP has already made significant gains in April this year with the donation of a Prisoner Truck to Mt Hagen RPNGC, and the construction of two new hauswins for RPNGC and Community mediations.
The RPNGC welcomed further PNG-APP contributions to the region with:
- new office refurbishments at Mt Hagen Police station;
- new ablutions block at Kimininga barracks; and
- commencement of new police housing to be completed April 2025.
Australia remains committed to delivering security support tailored to PNG's traditional and non-traditional security needs, as it has over decades of partnership.
Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Dr Joanne Loundes (third from right) officially opening the new PNG-APP facility.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100