PAPUA New Guinea’s transport sector agencies are working to eliminate duplicate projects and prioritise the projects that matter the most.
This is with the re-establishment of the Transport Sector Budget Working Group.
The Department of Transport is leading the work, in collaboration with Department of Treasury and the Department of National Planning and Monitoring.
Through the PNG-Australia Partnership, the Australian Government is supporting this work in close collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The Australian Government’s support is being delivered through a dedicated secretariat function provided by the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 (TSSP3) to coordinate the working group, strengthening cooperation across transport sector agencies.
The Working Group will plan and budget as one sector, starting with submissions for the 2027 National Budget.
This approach enables the government to allocate limited funds to the highest priorities, reduce duplication, and ensure transport spending aligns with the Medium-Term Transport Plan 2023 – 2027 and wider development plans.
Accounting for PGK2.19 billion of the 2026 national budget collectively, this will deliver government-wide efficiencies.
Department of Transport, First Assistant Secretary for Sector Planning and Budgeting, , Mr Wilson Soepol, who chaired the meeting, said the working group would help the sector get more from every kina.
“When we plan as one sector, we can target our funding where it matters most and deliver more for the people who use our roads, ports and airports every day,” said Mr Soepol.
Department of Transport, Deputy Secretary, Mr Philip Habon pointed to the practical savings the approach can deliver.
“In the past, two agencies might each budget for the same access road or the same bridge, while a genuine priority elsewhere went unfunded. Planning as one sector means we catch that early, free up money and put it where the need is greatest, “Mr Habon said.
Australia is pleased to back this work alongside JICA, and to support PNG’s agencies as they set their own priorities and deliver them as a sector.
The group will meet fortnightly as Stage 1 submissions are due by 29 July, and Stage 2 submissions due by 14 August. This is done ahead of the2027 National Budget, which is scheduled to be tabled in Parliament on 10 November.
By planning and leading as one sector, PNG’s transport agencies are setting the sector up to achieve more over the years ahead.