PNG-Australia Defence Partnership Opens Door for Skilled Citizens to Join ADF, PM Marape Says

Prime Minister James Marape says Papua New Guinea is entering a new phase of defence cooperation with Australia, with preparations underway for qualified Papua New Guineans to pursue careers in the Australian Defence Force.

The recruitment pathway is being developed under the PNG-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty, commonly known as the Pukpuk Treaty, following talks between PM Marape and Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald in Port Moresby.

 PNG-Australia Defence Partnership Opens Door for Skilled Citizens to Join ADF, PM Marape Says

PM Marape said the Government had completed its legal requirements and was now working with defence and government authorities from both countries to establish the process for selecting suitable applicants.

The initiative will allow eligible Papua New Guineans to seek enlistment in the Australian Defence Force, but the Prime Minister said candidates must prove they meet the same requirements expected of other ADF personnel.

“Our legal clearance has been completed on the Papua New Guinea side, and work is now progressing to enable qualified Papua Guineans to be selected and enlisted into the Australian Defence Force,” PM Marape said.

He said applicants would undergo comprehensive assessments covering education, medical fitness, physical capability, character and security requirements.

The Prime Minister made it clear that the arrangement was not a direct recruitment guarantee, urging interested citizens to prepare themselves and follow official procedures.

“This will not be automatic recruitment. Applicants will have to qualify, pass the required assessments and satisfy the standards of the Australian Defence Force,” PM Marape said.

He said successful applicants would benefit from military training and professional development, while also gaining access to possible long-term settlement opportunities in Australia through pathways being developed.

PM Marape said the program would expose Papua New Guineans to specialised skills in key sectors such as aviation, engineering, technology, maritime services, healthcare, communications and logistics.

He described the opportunity as a chance for young Papua New Guineans to develop skills that could serve them throughout their working lives.

“These are life-long skills. Those selected will not only have employment opportunities but will also receive training, discipline and professional development that can benefit them and their families into the future,” he said.

The Prime Minister said the partnership would not only benefit individuals selected for the ADF but would also support the growth of the PNG Defence Force.

He said PNG’s own military capability must continue to receive investment through improved infrastructure, modern equipment, stronger training programs and better support systems.

“We cannot only create opportunities for our people to serve in the Australian Defence Force while neglecting our own Defence Force. The Papua New Guinea Defence Force must also be improved, modernised, properly resourced and adequately supported,” PM Marape said.

He added that both governments would continue discussions aimed at improving facilities, communications systems, accommodation and technical training for PNGDF members.

PM Marape also cautioned Papua New Guineans against paying money to individuals promising guaranteed entry into the Australian military.

“No person should pay money to anyone promising them a place in the Australian Defence Force. All recruitment will be conducted through official Government and Australian Defence Force processes,” he said.

He thanked Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, High Commissioner Ewen McDonald and the Australian Government for their support, saying the initiative would create employment opportunities and further strengthen the friendship between PNG and Australia.