Access to justice in local communities across Papua New Guinea received a major boost today as five organisations were awarded new support through the Community Justice Fund (CJF), a flagship program of the Australia–PNG Law and Justice Partnership.
The grants were announced during the first official visit to PNG by Attorney[1]General of Australia the Hon Michelle Rowland MP.
The newly funded projects address critical law and justice issues such as gender-based violence, disability-inclusive justice, menstrual health in corrections facilities, and restorative justice.
Since its launch in November 2024, the CJF has supported a growing number of locally led, community-based organisations and frontline service providers working to build safe, inclusive and just communities across PNG.
These initiatives are delivering measurable improvements in community safety and justice outcomes. In Hela Province, CJF-funded mental health workshops have helped over 200 young men, many previously involved in tribal conflict, transition to pursue sustainable livelihoods in agriculture.
Several CJF-supported services will participate in the upcoming World Shelters Conference in Sydney, reflecting our ongoing collaboration under the Australia–PNG Law and Justice Partnership.
These grants are part of Australia’s broader commitment to supporting PNG’s justice institutions and community-led efforts. These shared values continue to guide our deep and enduring partnership.
Australia is proud to walk alongside PNG as a neighbour, friend and partner.
Quotes attributable to Attorney-General, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
“The Community Justice Fund grants show what partnership in action looks like, supporting our Pacific community leaders to drive real change in their communities.
The strength of Australia and PNG’s partnership lies in our shared commitment to more accessible, more inclusive and more responsive justice.”
“Partnership means walking side by side. Today, we took another step together by supporting communities in PNG that drive change."
Ends.
Five organisations who support access to justice in local communities across Papua New Guinea were awarded new support through the Community Justice Fund (CJF), a flagship program of the Australia–PNG Law and Justice Partnership.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100