BUKA, (PACNEWS)- The Bougainville House of Representatives has passed two laws aimed at strengthening mining safety standards and the prosecution of offences under Bougainville law.
The two Bills were passed during the House sitting from 22 to 24 September 2026.
The Bougainville Mining (Occupational Health & Safety) Bill 2026, tabled by President and Minister for Mining and Petroleum Ishmael Toroama, establishes a dedicated occupational health and safety framework for the mining sector.
The legislation strengthens the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s ability to regulate health and safety standards across mining operations.
The House also passed the Interpretation (Prosecutions and Interim Arrangements) Amendment Bill 2026, which was tabled by Atolls member Amanda Masono on behalf of Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Legal Services and Vice-President Ezekiel Massat.
The amendment strengthens the legal framework governing the prosecution of offences under Bougainville laws.
The ABG said the two laws marked significant steps in strengthening Bougainville’s legislative and institutional framework, particularly in mining regulation, enforcement and prosecution.
The legislation is part of ongoing efforts by the ABG and the House of Representatives to develop Bougainville’s laws and institutions.
Copies of the Bougainville Mining (Occupational Health & Safety) Act 2026** and the Interpretation (Prosecutions and Interim Arrangements) Amendment Act 2026** will be made available to the public once they commence….PACNEWS