Australia Supports Weapons-Marking Training to Strengthen PNG Correctional Services Security

THE Australian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Papua New Guinea’s internal security by supporting specialised weapons-marking training for officers of the Papua New Guinea Correctional Services (PNGCS).

Five PNGCS officers have successfully completed the training course, which is designed to enhance weapons accountability, prevent diversion, and strengthen institutional safety as part of broader efforts to reduce armed violence across the country.

Delivered by Mines Advisory Group (MAG) with support from the Australian Government, the course covered standardised weapons-marking methods, inventory management systems, secure storage protocols, marking site management, practical marking tools, and reporting mechanisms. The training equips officers with skills to improve weapons tracking throughout their full lifecycle, from procurement to storage and eventual destruction.

With the newly acquired expertise, PNGCS is expected to implement updated weapons-marking techniques and strengthen inventory management systems, significantly improving the organisation’s capacity to track and manage firearms and ammunition.

PNGCS officer Lance Corporal Daisy Kibi, the first female participant in the training, said the course had built her confidence and professional capacity.
“As the first female participant, the training allowed for greater self-confidence in my capacity. I am proud to have completed the course and look forward to leading PNGCS, and PNG, into a future in which we meet international standards on weapons management,” Lance Corporal Kibi said.

The initiative reflects Australia’s ongoing support for Papua New Guinea’s security priorities under the Australia–Papua New Guinea Bilateral Security Agreement. The legally binding agreement is a landmark chapter of the Australia–Papua New Guinea Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership, elevating and modernising the two countries’ longstanding security relationship.

Since the agreement was signed in December 2023, Australia has moved quickly to support PNG’s defence and internal security needs. This includes assistance to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary through the construction of new policing facilities, delivery of a police patrol vessel, and support for recruitment, training and forensic capabilities. Australia has also expanded its flagship Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership to further promote safe and secure communities nationwide.

The weapons-marking course is the first in a series of activities being delivered by MAG with Australian Government support, aimed at helping PNG Correctional Services establish high standards of armoury management and prevent the diversion of weapons and ammunition.

Australia and Papua New Guinea’s security partnership is underpinned by strategic trust and shared interests as close neighbours and partners. Both countries remain committed to a safe, stable, peaceful and prosperous Pacific, building on a long history of cooperation to strengthen regional security.