THE Papua New Guinea–Australia partnership continues to support initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s leadership, promoting inclusive institutions, and addressing gender-based barriers across the law and justice sector.
These ongoing efforts were highlighted during the Leadership Learning and Development Reference Group (LLDRG) National Coordination Mechanism Lecture held in Port Moresby to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
Elizabeth Le Bas, Minister-Counsellor at the Australian High Commission, emphasised that gender equality is essential for effective governance and public trust. She noted that when women are represented in leadership and decision-making roles, institutions become stronger, more effective, and more responsive to the communities they serve.
Delivering the keynote address, former Vice-Chancellor of Divine Word University, Dr Cecilia Nembou, stressed that meaningful change requires more than simply increasing women’s participation. She highlighted the need to reshape systems to support inclusive, ethical, and accountable leadership.
Referencing the International Women’s Day 2026 theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” Dr Nembou urged participants to contribute to building a future where rights are protected, justice is upheld, and action is taken whenever fairness is threatened.
Participant Lucy Christopher from the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) emphasised the importance of leadership, mentoring, and networking opportunities. She noted that events like this empower women and help strengthen support networks across the sector.
“Women in this country are empowering women, and from here, the sky is the limit,” she said.
Progress has also been made on policy reforms, including the introduction of the Glasman and Glasmeri Act, which addresses Sorcery Accusation Related Violence and has already led to successful prosecutions.
Australia and Papua New Guinea share a long-standing partnership in strengthening justice institutions and promoting gender equality. Continued investment in women’s leadership and inclusive institutions will help build a law and justice sector that better serves all citizens.