Papua New Guinea’s partnership with Australia in the transport sector stronger than ever
Papua New Guinea’s Department of Works and the Australian High Commission yesterday celebrated the signing of a long-term arrangement formalising Australia’s technical support to the Department through the Transport Sector Support Program.
The new arrangement will directly support the shared goal of the governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia: a safer and more reliable transport network for all Papua New Guineans.
Secretary Wereh emphasised the central role that the Department plays in improving the lives of Papua New Guineans.
“The Department must be flexible and adaptable to meet the needs of our people. This plan will put us in a better position to deliver core services and connect communities and businesses.”
The new arrangement will deliver support across the Department of Works, focusing on road network planning, road asset information management to support effective prioritisation of resources, improving procurement systems and processes, and strengthening financial management.
The new arrangement outlines a pipeline of support to 2019. This long-term partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia provides the stability needed to sustainably enhance systems and processes within the Department. It also provides the necessary flexibility to tailor activities to best suit the changing needs of the Department.
“The strong technical focus of Australia’s support is targeted where our need is greatest. Strengthening this important partnership will lead to a more effective, sustainable and accountable Department of Works,” said Secretary Wereh.
Minister Counsellor, Benedict David, signed the new arrangement on behalf of Australia. He noted the strong ongoing cooperation between Australia and Papua New Guinea in the transport sector.
“Australia is proud to continue its long-term commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s transport sector, in land transport, maritime and aviation. Australia is delighted to continue to support Papua New Guinea in its vision for an effective and connected transport network that delivers economic and social development for all Papua New Guineans.”
Australia’s support to the Department of Works is delivered through the Papua New Guinea-Australia Transport Sector Support Program.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100
Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor, Benedict David speaking during the signing ceremony.