The Pacific Support Vessel, ADV Reliant, and Royal Australian Navy survey ship HMAS Leeuwin will conduct a joint port visit to Lae this week as part of their ongoing deployments in the Pacific, reflecting the historic alliance between Papua New Guinea and Australia, established under the Pukpuk Treaty.
The port visit will include the delivery of emergency response equipment, education and medical supplies, as well as sporting and community engagement activities.
HMAS Leeuwin is currently deployed to Papua New Guinea to conduct hydrographic surveys of the waters surrounding Umboi Island in Morobe Province alongside members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.
ADV Reliant is deployed in the Pacific region to deliver stores and equipment, as well as undertake maritime surveillance.
Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, Mr Ewen McDonald, said the visit by both vessels was an important milestone for the region.
“As allies, Australian and Papua New Guinea Defence personnel work side by side every day, but visits by Australian Navy vessels to Lae is an opportunity for us to continue to deepen our relationships and our ability to operate together in the maritime environment,” Mr McDonald said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae, Hon. John Rosso DPS MP, welcomed the visit, saying it reflected the practical and enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia as close neighbours and allies.
“Lae proudly welcomes the Royal Australian Navy to our city. This visit reflects the strength of the partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia, built on friendship and our shared interests as close neighbours and allies,” Deputy Prime Minister Rosso said.
HMAS Leeuwin is expected to remain in Lae until 11 August. Survey data from Leeuwin’s mission will support the production of nautical charts used for shipping, improving safety of navigation and enabling economic activity across the Pacific.
ENDS
Quotes attributable to Australia's High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, His Excellency Ewen McDonald AM:
“Australia and PNG’s longstanding partnership in hydrographic survey strengthens maritime domain awareness and underpins maritime trade, economic development, and regional prosperity.
“As the Pacific Support Vessel, ADV Reliant spends more than 300 days per year deployed into the region and is vital to Australia’s ability to work alongside our partners to prepare for, and respond quickly, in times of crisis.”
Quotes attributable to Hon John Rosso DPS MP:
“Lae proudly welcomes the Royal Australian Navy to our city. This visit reflects the strength of the partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia, built on friendship and our shared interests as close neighbours and allies.”
“I thank the Australian Government especially the Queensland Government for the continued support for the people of Lae, including delivery of this fire truck and other emergency response equipment. This is practical assistance that will benefit our community here in Lae and throughout Papua New Guinea.”
HMAS Leeuwin conducts testing off the coast of Cairns prior to her deployment on a regional hydrographic survey mission in support of the Government of Papua New Guinea, 2026.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100