A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 22 May 2026 between the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and the Papua New Guinea National Statistical Office (NSO), establishing a framework for continued cooperation until 30 June 2028.
The agreement was signed at the ABS Headquarters in Canberra by Andrew Tomadini, Acting General Manager of the ABS Transformation Division, and Mr Alfred Mokae on behalf of the PNG NSO.
Under the MoU, both institutions will collaborate in areas including technical assistance, leadership development, research, innovation, modernization of statistical systems, and the exchange of expertise and best practices. A strong emphasis is placed on building institutional capacity and developing a highly skilled statistical workforce capable of meeting national priorities and emerging data demands.
Mr. Mokae described the agreement as a significant milestone in the modernization of PNG’s national statistical system. “This agreement reflects the strong and enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia in advancing official statistics and strengthening institutional capability. Reliable and timely statistics are critical for national planning, service delivery, economic development, and informed government decision-making,” he said.
He added that the partnership would support improvements in data collection methodologies, statistical production processes, digital transformation, and dissemination systems to ensure PNG’s official statistics remain aligned with international standards and responsive to the needs of government, businesses, development partners, and communities.
The partnership builds on years of cooperation between the ABS and PNG NSO through regional initiatives, technical assistance programs, and institutional collaboration. Australia has consistently supported PNG in census planning, development of economic and social statistics, institutional strengthening, modernization of statistical systems, and staff training.
Mr. Mokae acknowledged the presence of Richard Masere, Minister for Administrative Services and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Constitutional Matters, noting that the Government’s support demonstrates PNG’s commitment to strengthening official statistics.
He also thanked the Australian Government and ABS for their continued support and hospitality, expressing confidence that the partnership will deliver positive outcomes for both institutions and the people of Papua New Guinea.