Australian High Commission
Papua New Guinea

Women’s work readiness project to be trialled in Enga

The PNG Work Readiness Pathway was officially launched today by Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey MP and Australian High Commissioner Jon Philp.

The pilot project will initially involve 200 women in Enga Province from October 2021 to April 2022. The program will provide training for the critical skills needed for people to participate in Pacific labour mobility initiatives in Australia, access vocational education pathways and join the national workforce. The program will also improve participants’ English literacy and numeracy and enhance their work-readiness.

On completion and review of the Pilot Project, it is expected the project could be adapted to allow wider participation by other districts and provinces for both women and men.

The pilot project is supported by the Papua New Guinea - Australia Partnership and will be delivered by the PNG Department of Treasury - Labour Mobility Unit.

High Commissioner Philp said Australia is committed to supporting more equitable opportunities for Papua New Guineans to participate in economic activities and improve their training and skills.

“PNG and Australia are partnering to support people to develop their skills in line with industry needs,” he said.

“Aligning training with workforce gaps will provide better access to employment and education, and stronger foundations for people to start their own businesses and participate in local governance.”

In addition to the English literacy, numeracy and finance skills, the pilot project will also cover women’s empowerment, self-care, nutrition, family planning, health and wellness, social and employability skills, and living and working conditions in Australia.

Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey MP, Australian High Commissioner Jon Philp and Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas at the launch of the pilot project that will involve an initial 200 women in Enga Province.

For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100