Australia and Papua New Guinea share one of the closest of bonds. Our relationship is based on our common history, our close geography, and our shared values.
We are the nearest of neighbours, the most trusted of partners and the oldest of friends. But beyond our proximity lies something more enduring, a shared commitment to justice, democracy, and progress.
I was reminded of these deep ties this week during my first trip to Papua New Guinea since being appointed as the Attorney-General of Australia in May. In every conversation, courtroom, and community space I saw our living, breathing partnership and cooperation growing stronger.
As Australia’s First Law Officer, I take pride in the fact that the law and justice systems that support our democracies have always been at the heart of our relationship.
The respect that exists across Papua New Guinea for the independence and professionalism of the judiciary, and for the rule of law, is a proud achievement
When meeting with the Hon Pila Niningi MP, Minister for Justice and Attorney General, along with senior leaders from our legal institutions, I reflected on these shared values and how the longstanding cooperation among our legal communities continues to serve the people of our nations.
I was deeply honoured to represent Australia at the opening ceremony of the new Waigani National Court Complex. I congratulated Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika on this significant milestone. Papua New Guinea’s independent judiciary is indeed a pillar of its vibrant democracy, another tradition that Papua New Guinea and Australia proudly share.
Papua New Guinea is not alone in facing complex law and justice challenges. Every country must grapple with how to deliver justice equitably and effectively, including the reconciliation between common law and local custom. But Papua New Guinea will not face these challenges alone. Australia is a committed and willing partner, deeply invested in Papua New Guinea’s success. Our engagement in the law and justice sector spans decades and is anchored in a common legal heritage, and close relationships between our legal fraternities, judiciaries, and police forces.
In the 50th year of Papua New Guinea’s independence, we recognise how far we have come together.
Our friendship goes far beyond formal ties. The true strength of our partnership lies in the connections between our people. From enduring collaborations between institutions in the law and justice sector, to the inspiring work of grassroots organisations and support for the emerging leaders shaping Papua New Guinea’s future, I saw firsthand how our shared values and mutual respect are reflected in every layer of our relationship.
On the eve of Papua New Guinea’s momentous 50th anniversary of independence, we are reminded that our nations’ deep ties did not spring up overnight. And they cannot – and will not – be taken for granted.
It is a moment to reflect not just on the past, but on the future we want to build together. The foundations of our modern partnership – encompassing all areas of human endeavour – were laid down over many years by generations who came before.
Our partnership is not only one of geography, but a deliberate choice to invest in shared values, mutual respect and the common goal creating safe, fair, and just societies.
Today, we are working together, as we always have, to ensure these bonds remain as strong as ever, now and into our shared future – side by side and step by step, Yumi Stap Wantaim.
Ends.
Australia’s Attorney-General, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, and PNG’s Minister for Justice and Attorney General, the Hon Pila Niningi MP, meet in Port Moresby to discuss law and justice issues shared by both countries.
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