THE Australian High Commission, University of Papua New Guinea, PNG Baseball Softball Confederation and the PNG Sports Foundation are proud to announce that construction will commence soon on new softball facilities at UPNG.
The Softball Facilities Development Project will deliver two competition-standard softball fields and essential amenities by October 2026. The project is being delivered by the Australian Government through the Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP).
The facility will support the current and next generation of Papua New Guinea’s softball talent with safe, quality fields and facilities for years to come.
The project demonstrates Papua New Guinea and Australia working together to support sport at all levels, including the delivery of safe and accessible spaces to train and compete. Softball plays an important role in communities across the country, particularly for women and girls.
Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor, Elizabeth Le Bas said, “We are very happy to be delivering this project in partnership with PNG and recognise the power of sport and the many benefits it brings to the community. I want to thank our partners who are working hard to realise this project, and we look forward to seeing the new diamonds come to life.”
Vice Chancellor of UPNG, Prof. Ian Findlay said, “The University is delighted to partner on this project and provide a location for these Softball facilities. The facilities will be shared between the softball associations and UPNG, enabling both softball and the broader student body to benefit. Yet another step forward in enhancing sport in PNG.”
President of the PNG Baseball and Softball Confederation Jenny Paak said, “We’re looking forward to having the new fields to run our competitions. The location at UPNG will help provide a safe and secure place to play and being on campus may even help us attract new players from the student community.”
PNG Sports Foundation CEO Micah James said, “PNGSF is proud to play its part in this important project. The new fields will strengthen softball in PNG and increase community and competitive access to brand-new, high-quality infrastructure.”
The Softball Facilities Development Project aligns with PNG’s National Sports Policy 2020–2030, promoting inclusive
participation, improved sporting infrastructure and greater community access.
PNG contractors, suppliers, and tradespeople will be prioritised during construction, supporting local jobs and skills development.