Papua New Guinea election observation

I am pleased to announce that four members of the Australian Parliament will travel to Papua New Guinea from 24-30 June to observe the national election.

Mr Andrew Laming MP, Ms Cathy McGowan AO, MP, Senator Claire Moore and Senator Linda Reynolds CSC will observe polling activities with staff from the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby.

Australia is working closely with PNG to support the election, including by providing experts from the Australian Electoral Commission, the Australian Civilian Corps and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems. Our assistance also includes voter awareness initiatives, support for female candidates and election-related training for journalists.

The Australian Defence Force is providing logistics support to the PNG Electoral Commission, including helicopters and planes to help transport election materials to regional centres before the polling period.

This assistance will help to strengthen electoral processes, and deliver polling operations in a country with some of the world's most difficult terrain.

Australia's election observation and support demonstrates our close and enduring relationship with Papua New Guinea.

As our nearest neighbour, Australia has a shared interest in PNG's security and economic development. Our relationship is built on rich ties between our peoples which have evolved into deep business and economic links – nearly 5000 Australian companies do business with Papua New Guinea and our investments in PNG are valued at around $18.4 billion.