The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) marked National Women’s Day on 24 March with a panel discussion at Murray Barracks, Port Moresby. The event recognised and celebrated the contribution of women within the PNGDF, with the panel discussion covering the important role women play in various areas of the defence force and Department of Defence, including operational roles, corporate roles and leadership positions.
It was led by PNGDF women in leadership Director of Air Operations Lieutenant Colonel Nancy Wii, PNG Department of Defence Deputy Secretary Ms Doreen Joel and Major Jacqueline Lilih from PNGDF Directorate of Legal Services. PNGDF Chief of Staff to Chief of Defence Force, Colonel Kingsley Wawada, attended the event providing opening remarks, and Australian Defence Force (ADF) Assistant Defence Advisor, Lieutenant Colonel Simone Heyer, was invited to join the panel discussion.
The event demonstrated the vital role women play within the PNGDF and the Papua New Guinean community more broadly. The ADF is proud to work with the PNGDF to support gender equality and inclusivity in the defence forces to further develop the enduring defence relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Quote attributable to PNGDF Chief of Staff Colonel Kinsgley Wawada:
“Women in the Papua New Guinea Defence Force continue to prove their value across all areas of operations, of leadership and within our units. They serve with courage, professionalism and resilience, contributing directly to mission success and home and abroad.”
Quote attributable to PNGDF Director of Air Operations Lieutenant Colonel Nancy Wii:
“The importance of today is to have the time to celebrate and acknowledge our female officers and members, and to share the knowledge and experiences we have had in the PNGDF as leaders to support women to be their best and take up opportunities for leadership.”
Quote attributable to ADF Assistant Defence Advisor Simone Heyer:
“Women play an essential role within the defence force and Papua New Guinea’s National Women’s Day is a fantastic opportunity to highlight this. The DCP is proud to work with the PNGDF to support equality and inclusivity in our defence forces and, working side by side, we are stronger together.”
ENDS
PNGDF National Women’s Day event at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby, Tuesday 24 March 2026.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100