The Australia and Papua New Guinea have strengthened cooperation on road planning, maintenance, and climate resilience through a study tour in Far North Queensland, supported by the Australian Government.
Seven senior officials from Papua New Guinea’s Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) participated in the program, which focused on re‑establishing a twinning relationship between DoWH and the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).
The study tour builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2012 by the Papua New Guinea Minister for Transport and the Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads to foster long‑term collaboration between the two agencies. While the MoU delivered tangible outcomes, formal engagement lapsed in 2016. This visit marked a crucial step in revitalising the partnership.
Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads District Director for the Far North District, North Queensland Region, Mr Darryl Jones, led technical briefings and field visits displaying how Queensland agencies plan, deliver and maintain road networks in tropical environments. The program highlighted practical responses to extreme weather, challenging terrain, and climate impacts common to both regions.
The delegation also visited James Cook University, where officials were introduced to emerging technologies, including the use of data analytics and artificial intelligence to support infrastructure planning, maintenance, and resilience.
Department of Works and Highways Secretary Gibson Holemba said the visit demonstrated a practical, forward‑looking approach to strengthening Papua New Guinea’s transport sector.
“This study tour gave our engineers direct exposure to how road systems operate in environments similar to Papua New Guinea,” Secretary Holemba said.
“The lessons and partnerships developed through this program will help us apply practical solutions that keep roads open and communities connected.”
Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor for Economics and Infrastructure, Dr Cate Rogers, said the initiative reflects the renewed partnership between Queensland and Papua New Guinea and a shared commitment to climate resilience.
“This program reconnects technical experts from Queensland and Papua New Guinea to share practical knowledge and strengthen cooperation across the road sector,” Dr Rogers said.
“By working together on climate resilience and road management in tropical conditions, we are helping communities build safer and more reliable transport networks.”
The study tour forms part of Australia’s broader partnership with Papua New Guinea under the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3, which supports road maintenance and rehabilitation, institutional strengthening, and infrastructure investment.
Australia remains committed to working with Papua New Guinea to deliver climate‑resilient transport infrastructure that improves access to services, markets, and economic opportunities.
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At Barron bridge, Kuranda.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100