PNG public servants disappointed as salary increase delayed

Across Papua New Guinea, public servants were expecting a three per cent salary increase today, but it failed to appear in their pay. Officials said the delay is due to outstanding registration and gazettal processes linked to the 2026–2028 salary fixation agreement.

The Department of Personnel Management confirmed that administrative procedures remain incomplete, preventing the new salaries from being processed.

Public Employees Association (PEA) General Secretary Ugwalubu Mowana

Public Employees Association (PEA) General Secretary Ugwalubu Mowana said the union is aware of the procedural requirements and is optimistic about the agreement being finalised soon. “Our 2026 to 2028 salary fixation agreement is currently being registered. I thank the Department of Personnel Management and the Government for progressing this important agreement that will guide public servants’ salaries for the next three years,” Mowana said.

He added that while the three per cent increase falls short of the union’s original demands, it provides some relief. “The PEA pushed for a seven per cent general increase plus a five per cent performance productivity component. While three per cent is small, it remains a positive step to help cushion the hardships public servants are facing,” Mowana explained.

Nurses Association President Frederick Kebai said the increment would help, but cautioned that ongoing inflation could reduce its impact. “With the escalating consumer price index and inflation, the increase will make only a limited difference. However, it is still an achievement that offers some relief to the struggling workforce,” Kebai said.