Port Moresby, 26 February 2025 — A special audit into Papua New Guinea’s largest infrastructure initiative, the Connect PNG Programme, will officially commence in March 2025, following a formal agreement signed this week between the government and independent auditing firms.
Acting Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu signed the agreement on Tuesday, 25 February, alongside representatives from Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, a global professional services firm, and Norths Projects Ltd, a Brisbane-based engineering consultancy. The audit will be managed by the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council through its Internal Audit Branch.
“This is the first independent audit into the Connect PNG Programme since its operational rollout in 2022,” Mr Pomaleu said. “It’s an important milestone for accountability and transparency in one of our most ambitious infrastructure programmes.”
Scope and Objectives of the Audit
The audit will focus on Phase One of the Connect PNG Programme, covering physical inspection and verification of road and infrastructure works across eight provinces. The key objectives of the audit include:
-
Assessing the effective use of public funds
-
Evaluating project performance and progress
-
Detecting any irregularities or unethical practices
-
Ensuring compliance with procurement laws and government policies
-
Measuring the efficiency and sustainability of the projects
-
Enhancing public trust and transparency in the programme
The audit team from Deloitte and Norths Projects will carry out on-the-ground assessments and review key documentation related to planning, contracting, implementation, and financing of road works.
Background on Connect PNG
Launched in 2020, the Connect PNG Programme is a 20-year strategic infrastructure initiative aimed at revolutionising road connectivity in Papua New Guinea. The programme is designed to link remote regions to urban and economic centres, thereby fostering inclusive economic growth, social development, and national unity.
Despite its scope and high public investment—estimated at over K1 billion annually—the programme has not been subject to any external or independent audits since implementation began. This special audit, therefore, marks a critical step in addressing calls for oversight, transparency, and efficiency.
Provincial Cooperation Urged
Acting Chief Secretary Pomaleu has called for full cooperation from provincial governments, project managers, implementing agencies, and contractors to facilitate the audit.
“I urge all stakeholders—especially at the provincial level—to support the audit team with the necessary access and information. The findings will serve not just the current administration, but also the people of Papua New Guinea who depend on these roads for access to services and opportunities,” he said.
A Path Toward Better Governance
This audit is expected to set a new precedent for public infrastructure oversight in PNG, reinforcing the government’s commitment to accountable governance, especially in high-expenditure, high-impact national programmes.
The final audit report is expected to be made public later in the year, potentially informing adjustments or reforms to the programme’s planning, delivery, and monitoring frameworks.