PNG Women Take Lead in Military Driver Training

 Women in the PNG Defence Force are stepping into frontline training roles as the organisation rolls out a specialised driver program for up-armoured vehicles in Port Moresby.

The initiative, currently underway at Murray Barracks and Goldie River Training Depot, is equipping soldiers with the skills needed to operate newly acquired protected mobility vehicles supplied by Australia.

Left to right - PNGDF CPL Petra Kimbis, ADF LCPL Emily Murphy and PNGDF CPL Maria Andaku completing up-armored vehicle operator training at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby. Photo by Australian High Commission.

The training uses six of the 12 up-armoured LandCruiser units delivered to the force last year, forming a key part of efforts to strengthen operational readiness.

Eight PNGDF personnel have already completed instructor certification and are now conducting lessons for trainees drawn from different parts of the country, with support from the Australian Defence Force under the Defence Cooperation Program.

Corporal Maria Andaku, a Force Support Battalion instructor with over a decade of experience, said the new vehicles have brought a fresh dimension to training.

“We are training them to be qualified to handle the up-armored vehicle. It’s a very big change to the course and we are happy with the ADF for the vehicle,” she said.

Corporal Petra Kimbis, who is among the participants, described the course as both demanding and rewarding, noting she is the only female in her group.

“It’s a challenge, but it’s good. It’s interesting and I am enjoying this course,” she said.

Australian Defence Force instructor Lance Corporal Emily Murphy said working alongside PNGDF members has been a valuable experience, especially in sharing knowledge and learning from local personnel.