“PNG’s security affects Australia’s security. A more secure and prosperous PNG means a safer Australia,” says Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea Dr Joanne Loundes.
 
Dr Loundes said this during the official opening of the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP) Mt Hagen Office that marks the beginning of the next phase of Australia’s support for law enforcement cooperation activities in Western Highlands Province.
 
Dr Loundes added that the opening of the new PNG-APP facility demonstrates Australia’s ongoing commitment to PNG under the Bilateral Security Agreement signed by both countries in December last year.
 
“We understand that as PNG’s primary security partner, we need to remain responsive to your security needs and to deliver priority projects and programs quickly,” said Dr Loundes.
 
Australia remains committed to delivering security support tailored to PNG’s traditional and non-traditional security needs as it has over decades of partnership.
 
Through the PNG-APP, Australia continues to work closely with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to deliver equipment, assets and training that will help PNG develop a world class police force.
 
PNG-APP made progress early this year with a donation of a prisoner truck to Mt Hagen RPNGC, and the construction of two new “hauswins” for RPNGC and community mediations.
 
RPNGC welcomed further PNG-APP contributions to the region with new office refurbishments at Mt Hagen Police Station, new ablution block at Kimininga barracks and commencement of new police housing to be complete in April 2025.
 
“Investments like the opening of the PNG-APP Office in Mt Hagen demonstrates our commitment to delivering security support tailored to PNG’s security needs,” Dr Loundes said.