The newly refurbished Living-in-Accommodation (LIA) for female soldiers at the Papua New Guinea Defence Force’s (PNGDF) Murray Barracks Force Support Battalion (FSB) was formally opened today.
Deputy Chief of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), Brigadier General Opa Lari Opa was joined by Australia Defence Assistant Secretary for Pacific Infrastructure, Ms Laura Darlington, to conduct the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The building refurbishment was funded under the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP) and included major roofing repairs, upgrade of the electrical systems, construction of a new Haus Win, new furniture and joinery, and repainting. It now has the capacity to house up to 88 female PNGDF soldiers, and following the official opening it is available for occupation by FSB personnel.
Works were designed and constructed by local PNG companies, under the management of the DCP Infrastructure Program's Captain Osgar Murphy and Warrant Officer 1 Zachary Hurst, with coordination from FSB Advisor Major Chris Pike.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Chief of PNGDF, Brigadier General Opa Lari Opa.
“The relationship between our two countries, and for defence in particular, is not only focussed on defence but also on other aspects.”
“I have no doubt this new building will improve the quality of life for our female soldiers, and it is an area where gender equality is something that we are taking seriously in the Defence force.”
Quote attributable to Australian Defence Assistant Secretary for Pacific Infrastructure, Ms Laura Darlington.
“We are really proud to support the PNGDF in investing in females. We think it is really important that the PNGDF have the ability to provide safe and secure accommodation for their officers and soldiers.”
The refurbished building has the capacity to house up to 88 female PNGDF soldiers, and following the official opening it is available for occupation by FSB personnel.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100