Survivors of violence in Bougainville will now have improved access to skilled and trusted counselling and support services.
This is following the completion of a 10-day basic counselling training in Buka, supported by the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ).
The training brought together 30 frontline workers, including safe house staff, health workers and community development officers. Participants strengthened practical counselling skills to respond safely and confidentially to survivors of gender-based violence and sorcery accusation-related violence.
The training was delivered by the PNG Counsellors Association through the National Gender Based Violence Secretariat, with funding from the Australian Government. The training in Buka was part of broader, nationally-led efforts to strengthen counselling capacity across Papua New Guinea.
In addition to building their skills in safe and confidential counselling that meets survivor needs, participants also strengthened their understanding of referral links with police, clinics, and community organisations, contributing to more coordinated local response systems.
Speaking at the final training in Buka, Bougainville Minister for Community Development and Public Service, Mr Melvin Wilolopa said the training gives frontline workers practical skills that communities urgently need.
“Here in Bougainville, our people face serious challenges, including family violence and sorcery-related attacks. Many survivors carry emotional wounds we cannot see.
“Counsellors play a special role in helping them be heard and supported. This training gives the skills to do that, and we are grateful it has reached our region, where the need is real every day,” he said.
This training series is part of broader joint efforts by PNG and Australia to build safer communities and strengthen local services that protect survivors.
Through the PNG-Australia Partnership, both countries will continue working together to expand access to care, support frontline workers and help communities respond to violence with confidence and respect.
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Group Photo Training Graduates with their certificates and sector representatives following the successful training.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100