In a significant move to aid Papua New Guinea’s recovery efforts following a devastating landslide in Enga Province, Australia transported a package of Indian supplies to the landslide to the disaster zone.
In a statement on X, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator Penny Wong said: “Australia is coordinating with partners to ensure the delivery of much needed assistance to our Papua New Guinean family. We were pleased to transport a package of Indian supplies to the landslide affected-Enga Province as we visited the disaster zone.”
Further, the Australian Government has pledged additional monetary support. This assistance aims to bolster essential services and infrastructure in the affected region.
The announcement came during a visit to the landslide site in Mulitaka, attended by PNG Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph and Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas.
Australia’s commitment includes $2 million to restore critical services, particularly focusing on local infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions that have been severely impacted.
Senator Wong after meeting PNG’s Prime Minister Marape in Port Moresby said: “Australia and Papua New Guinea are close neighbours, friends and equals. … Together, we’re working to ensure a stable, peaceful, prosperous Pacific.”
Key among the priorities is the restoration of road access, essential for delivering vital services and maintaining supply chains for food and fuel. The funding responds directly to PNG’s urgent appeal to reconnect the Highlands Highway, a vital transport lifeline for the area.
Specifically, Australia will allocate $220,000 towards healthcare services at the Mulitaka Health Centre and the Pokolip Health Post. This funding will provide crucial equipment and supplies for maternal health services, facilitating the reopening of delivery rooms at both facilities.
Furthermore, Australia will distribute 1,170 learning packs through its Partnerships for Improved Education program, ensuring children in the region can continue their education amidst the recovery efforts.
These initiatives build upon Australia’s initial emergency assistance of $2.5 million, which supported immediate relief efforts, humanitarian organisations, and the deployment of technical experts, including a Disaster Assistance Response Team.
On the successful completion of 30th Australia-PNG Ministerial Forum, Senator Wong observed: “PNG is the only country with which Australia has a Forum like this and our senior delegation shows the importance we place on this relationship.”
Acknowledging the commendable efforts of local authorities, including the Enga Provincial Administration and the PNG Defence Force, in spearheading the disaster response, Australia reaffirmed its commitment to standing by Papua New Guinea in its time of need.
Highlighting the enduring friendship and partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea, officials emphasised their readiness to extend further assistance to support the people and government of Papua New Guinea during this challenging period.
Senator Wong was in PNG to participate in the 30th Australia-PNG Ministerial Forum along with Richard Marles MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, and Pat Conroy MP, Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
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