Australia has joined forces with Papua New Guinea and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to launch a new three-year initiative aimed at improving labour governance across the country. The program was officially launched in a ceremony attended by Dr Cate Rogers of the Australian High Commission, Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Labour and Employment, Hon. Kessy Sawang, MP, and Martin Wandera, Director of the ILO Office for Pacific Island Countries.
The Improving Labour Governance in PNG program seeks to build a stronger, more inclusive labour governance framework by strengthening labour laws, enhancing data collection for evidence-based policymaking, and fostering collaboration between government bodies, employers, and workers.
This partnership aligns with Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence, underscoring a shared commitment between Australia and PNG to the principle of Yumi Stap Wantaim — “side by side, step by step” — as the country advances towards decent work opportunities and inclusive economic growth.
By addressing labour standards and promoting cooperative governance, the initiative aims to create safer and fairer workplaces, supporting sustainable development and prosperity for all Papua New Guineans.