Australia and Papua New Guinea continue to work side by side to strengthen safety and security at Baisu Correctional Facility in the Western Highlands.
Australia recently handed over detailed site assessment and technical reports to Papua New Guinea Correctional Services (PNGCS) to support works to replace the Baisu fencing system and deliver safer working conditions for staff and a more secure environment for detainees and nearby communities.
Work will now commence on planning to replace Baisu’s ageing fencing system.
Strong, well-designed fencing is essential for protecting staff, detainees and nearby communities, and supports a justice system that is fair, reliable and safe.
Prepared by the Australia–PNG Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ), the studies detail how to replace Baisu’s perimeter fencing, which has been affected by rust, cracking concrete, unstable soil and frequent waterlogging.
The reports were the first phase of a broader package of APLJ-supported work with PNGCS to improve sites in Port Moresby, Western Highlands, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
The handover took place during a routine monthly coordination meeting between PNGCS and Australian-funded partners, reflecting how Australia’s support to the correctional sector extends well beyond a single project or program.
By bringing together planning, resources and expertise across multiple initiatives, Australia is cohesively supporting PNGCS to lead a coordinated and sustainable reform effort, as part of a shared commitment between Australia and PNG for safer, more prosperous communities.
Through APLJ and other programs, Australia is backing PNGCS with practical, foundational support that improves safety, capability and efficiency, now and into the future.
ENDS
Group Participants pose with Site Assessment Documents following a successful coordination meeting.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100