Youth in Hela Province are being supported to step away from conflict and build brighter futures through a new training program under the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ).
The Hela Youth Diversion Program aims to reduce violence by supporting youths affected by tribal fighting to build practical skills and small business opportunities.
The new training builds on earlier mental health and behaviour change programs for conflict-affected youths in Hela, which highlighted the need to also address unemployment and lack of income to bring about change. The program shows how law and justice support can help create safer communities by investing in young people.
By combining mental health support with practical skills, it gives youths opportunities and the tools to move away from violence and contribute positively to society.
Up to six further small business and skills training courses will be delivered over the next six months, targeting young people already being engaged through Australian Government-funded mental health programs.
The courses are aimed at participants with low levels of formal education and those affected by conflict, and focus on basic business skills, income generation and pathways into the formal economy.
David Hilai, a participant whose life is changing due to these training courses was previously involved in tribal fighting and drug use.
Mr Hilai made a public commitment to give up firearms and pursue a different path after joining the mental health training in 2025. He believes that without proper financial management, social issues will continue to increase in communities.
“I attended this training to make money. Mental health has played a big part in helping me see money differently,” he said. Through this training, he has developed skills in budgeting and planning that he wants to now use to build a better future for his family.
The program forms part of broader peacebuilding and community stability efforts in Hela under the PNG–Australia Partnership.
It reflects a shared commitment by PNG and Australia to support peace, resilience and opportunity for young people across the country, recognising that long-term peace depends on giving young people real alternatives to conflict and a safer, more prosperous future.
ENDS
A lecturer delivers training to conflict-affected youth in Hela, to give opportunities for a different path in life.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100