Port Moresby, 19 March 2025 — Papua New Guinea has taken a major step towards modernising its emergency response capabilities with the passage of the Fire and Rescue Service Bill 2025, which replaces the outdated Fire Service Act (Chapter 64).
Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the new legislation as a “historic milestone,” praising its potential to transform the country’s fire and rescue operations and better protect lives and property in an increasingly urbanised and disaster-prone environment.
“This legislation ensures we now have a stronger, more responsive fire service capable of handling emergencies more effectively,” said Prime Minister Marape. “For decades, our fire service has operated under an outdated framework that hindered its ability to grow and meet rising public safety demands. This Bill corrects that.”
The Bill was introduced by Defence Minister Billy Joseph and passed in Parliament earlier today with broad support. It establishes a modern legal foundation for fire and rescue operations, aligning emergency services with current public safety needs.
Key reforms introduced under the new law include:
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Expansion of firefighter roles to include not just fire suppression but also rescue and emergency response;
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New regulatory functions focused on fire safety enforcement and coordination;
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Improved collaboration between the National Fire Service and other government agencies;
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A clear and accountable funding structure, aligned with the Public Finance (Management) Act 1995, to ensure better resource allocation.
Minister Joseph was praised for spearheading the reforms, which Prime Minister Marape said would strengthen nationwide capacity and responsiveness, including in rural areas and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure, equipment, and training for the National Fire Service, highlighting plans for more fire stations and improved technological support.
“Our government is focused on building a resilient, well-equipped fire service to protect our people and businesses from disasters. Every province deserves professional fire and rescue services, and this legislation gives us the tools to deliver that,” Marape stated.
He also called on communities, businesses, and local authorities to work in partnership with the government to promote fire safety awareness and improve emergency preparedness across PNG.
“This is not just about laws and buildings; it’s about saving lives. I urge all Papua New Guineans to take fire safety seriously and support our fire and rescue teams in their mission,” he added.
The Fire and Rescue Service Bill 2025 is seen as a major institutional reform, reinforcing the government’s broader agenda to modernise essential services and strengthen public safety nationwide.