More than 70 Australia Awards alumni and their families came together at the 2026 Alumni Fair to highlight their contributions to Papua New Guinea’s development and the enduring partnership between PNG and Australia.
The event demonstrated how alumni of Australian education programs are contributing to improved service delivery, stronger institutions, and more inclusive development outcomes across PNG - and showcased how skills, knowledge, and professional networks developed through study in Australia and PNG are being applied across priority sectors, including health, education, governance, and economic development.
It reinforced the central role alumni play in translating education investments into long-term, practical impact.
Australia Awards Alumni in PNG include not only scholars who have studied in Australia, but also those who have undertaken studies in-country through Australia Awards In-PNG scholarships and Short Course participants.
Graduands from these pathways are equally making significant contributions across key sectors. Through targeted and practical training that strengthen skills and respond directly to workforce priorities, these awardees are delivering immediate and meaningful impact.
As recipients of Australian-supported education, they are valued members of the Australia Awards Alumni network. The Australian High Commission’s Minister Counsellor Madeleine Moss said the event highlighted the value of sustained investment in people.
“Across Papua New Guinea, alumni are applying their skills to strengthen systems, improve services, and contribute to policy and reform processes.
“Their work reflects the depth of the PNG–Australia Partnership and its focus on delivering tangible outcomes. In addition to celebrating the achievements of alumni, today’s Alumni Fair is also an opportunity to recognise the significant contributions made by families supporting those undertaking an Australia Awards scholarship journey.” said Minister Counsellor Moss.
Alumni also shared how their experiences as recipients of Australia Awards scholarships have supported their professional contributions.
Freda Haihe, a graduate now working as the country manager for Kyeema Foundation said her studies had strengthened both her technical capability and her approach to problem-solving. “I was able to apply what I learned to support improvements in service delivery in my province in my previous role at the Gulf Provincial Government Administration as the District Planner and in my current role as the country manager for Kyeema Foundation to improve health, livelihoods and environmental sustainability in communities.”
Australia remains committed to working with PNG to build capability, strengthen partnerships, and support the next generation of leaders.
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PNGAAA Executives sorting registration for an alumni at their booth during Alumni Fair.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100