PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape returned to Port Moresby this afternoon following a short but strategic working visit
to Brisbane, Australia, where he met with key academic and sporting partners to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of digital governance, public sector reform, and community outreach.
During the visit, Prime Minister Marape held high-level engagements with the Queensland University of Technology, focusing on the modernisation of Papua New Guinea’s ICT systems, cybersecurity, and data integrity across critical public institutions such as the Department of Finance, the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), and other government
bodies.
“We are facing increasing systemic risks across various sectors of government, particularly in ICT,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“This visit was about identifying regional partnerships and technical capabilities—especially with trusted institutions close to home—that can help us build robust firewalls, modernise our data systems, and unify our government’s digital infrastructure.”
He noted that both universities are already working with PNG public agencies, including on payroll system reviews, and expressed confidence in further collaboration.
In addition to the academic engagements, Prime Minister Marape attended the Brisbane Broncos vs. Wests Tigers rugby league match as a guest of the Broncos Club. He held positive discussions with the Broncos chairman and CEO, focusing on continued collaboration between the club and Papua New Guinea.
“The Brisbane Broncos are not only a top-performing team on the field—they also operate under a strong business model that supports the team financially,” he said.
“We aim to model our own national teams and sports initiatives with similar corporate structures, ensuring financial sustainability and wider community engagement.”
Upon his return to Port Moresby, the Prime Minister was welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso and more than 20 Members of Parliament.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Marape confirmed his travel to Lae tomorrow, where he will officially open the National Agriculture Industry Public–Private Sector Partnership Conference and deliver a keynote address.
The conference, jointly organised by the Department of Agriculture and the Consultative Implementation and Monitoring Council (CIMC), will bring together key stakeholders from government, industry, and civil society to strengthen partnerships in transforming the agriculture sector into a commercially competitive industry that supports PNG’s economic future.
“Agriculture remains a top national priority for our government. While politics may dominate the headlines, we remain firmly committed to delivering on our development agenda,” he said.
Amid current political developments, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s full respect for the rule of law and the constitutional process under Section 145 regarding any potential motion of no confidence.
He urged all Papua New Guineans to remain focused and committed to their everyday responsibilities.
“Let the politicians do their part, but public servants must continue to work. Businesses must remain open. Students must stay in school. Society must function lawfully. That’s how strong democracies operate—and as a nation now 50 years old, Papua New Guinea must continue to mature in that direction.”
The Prime Minister concluded by reminding the nation that the 2027 National General Election is drawing near and pledged to ensure a fair, peaceful, and democratic process.
“We must use our time wisely. There is important work to be done, and no time to waste. I reaffirm my commitment to upholding the Constitution and ensuring that the road to 2027 is inclusive, democratic, and peaceful.”