AUSTRALIA is supporting PNG to deliver accessible justice across West New Britain province with the delivery of a landmark training workshop which is currently underway in Kimbe, West New Britain.
A total of 192 village court officials from across 48 local court areas in the province are attending the training.
This training supports local solutions for local challenges, by empowering those on the ground who administer justice in the province.
“Now our people can find solutions in their own villages,” said Ms Rose Joe, a village court magistrate from Gloucester District. “This training transforms local justice.”
The five-day program will cover mediation techniques, statutory and customary law application. Officials will master practical skills to assist communities to resolve disputes locally, without traveling to distant courts.
The training is a collaborative effort supported by the Department of Attorney General, the West New Britain Provincial Administration, and the Australian Government through the PNG-Australia Law and Justice Partnership.
Australia’s support includes the provision of expert trainers and comprehensive materials for remote areas and the transportation and logistics to reach isolated regions. Local officials can now handle disputes promptly in their communities.
