The PNG-Australia Partnership is helping strengthen transparency and accountability in government spending in Western Province, with training delivered this week on the Bilum digital reporting platform.
Fifty-two provincial and district public servants, including finance managers, accountants, senior administrators and electoral staff from MPs’ offices participated in hands-on training to use the Bilum system to manage and report on Service Improvement Program (SIP) funds.
The Bilum platform is a digital governance initiative that supports Papua New Guinea’s efforts to improve how public funds are tracked, reported and used to deliver services, replacing paper-based processes with more accurate and accessible digital reporting.
The platform is funded through the PNG-Australia Partnership and owned and operated by the PNG Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DIRD).
In a speech to Parliament last week, the Minister of Rural and Economic Development, Hon. Joseph Lelang underlined the importance of Bilum to the Government of PNG.
“Through the Bilum Digital Platform, every Kina invested in development will be traceable. Leaders and citizens alike will have real-time access to information on the projects, ensuring that resources reach the people for whom they are intended.”
Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor, Madeleine Moss, said the training is helping build trust between communities and government in Western Province.
“When public funds are tracked clearly and reported openly, people’s confidence in government increases,” Ms Moss said.
“Australia is proud to support practical tools like Bilum that strengthen accountability and help provinces deliver for their people. Australia’s support reflects the close partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia, grounded in shared commitments to strong institutions, good governance, and better services for communities.”
ENDS
Officials undergoing training.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100