AUSTRALIA’S newly appointed High Commissioner-designate to Papua New Guinea, Mr Jamie Isbister, has arrived in Port Moresby to take up his assignment.
Mr Isbister will serve as High Commissioner-designate until he presents his credentials and formally assumes the role of Australia’s High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea.
Mr Isbister arrives at an important time in the Australia-Papua New Guinea relationship. Australia and Papua New Guinea have never been closer, with our Pukpuk Alliance reflecting the deep trust we share as neighbours, partners and friends.
Mr Isbister said he was delighted to arrive in Papua New Guinea and looked forward to beginning his assignment.
“I am honoured to be appointed Australia’s new High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea. My very first memory of life is in Port Moresby, where my father worked as a doctor at Port Moresby General Hospital. My family’s connection to Papua New Guinea spans three generations, and returning feels like coming home.
“Our shared future is built not just by governments, but by the friendships, partnerships and people-to-people connections we create together.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to represent Australia here and to contribute to the next chapter of our partnership as strong neighbours. Yumi wok bung long strongim pasin poroman bilong yumi.”
Mr Isbister has more than 30 years’ experience working in foreign, humanitarian and development policy.
He has previously served as Australia’s Ambassador for the Environment, the Australian Government’s Humanitarian Coordinator, and as Minister-Counsellor (Development) in Africa.
Mr Isbister also brings significant experience working on the Australia-Papua New Guinea relationship, including as
Australia’s lead negotiator with the Australian Rugby League Commission on the PNG Chiefs’ entry into the NRL.
Mr Isbister succeeds Mr Ewen McDonald AM as Australia’s High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea.