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NASFUND CONTINUES DRIVE TO SERVE MEMBERS THROUGH MOBILE SERVICE BOOTHS
NASFUND CONTINUES DRIVE TO SERVE MEMBERS THROUGH MOBILE SERVICE BOOTHS
Delivering essential services to remote parts of Papua New Guinea can be highly challenging. To bridge this gap, National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) continues to deploy its mobile Member Service Booths, recently assisting more than 100 members at the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Pastors Central Papua Conference at Mt Diamond, Central Province.Speaking on behalf of the attendees, Pastor Jacob Mavo of the Tubuseria Village SDA Church praised the initiative, noting that having the Nasfund team stationed directly at the conference venue was highly beneficial."From this engagement, our pastors have realized that we are not fully utilizing all the services Nasfund provides, especially the voluntary contributions platform," Pastor Mavo said. "Our church has been excellent in building our retirement savings, and we feel very blessed."Pastor Mavo added that other offerings, such as the housing advance product, should be utilized more effectively, pointing out that housing remains a major challenge for pastors within the church. He thanked Nasfund for bringing essential services directly to them, including digital onboarding for online platforms, processing member detail updates, issuing Eda Supa forms, and handling general enquiries.Pastor Samuel James of the 9-Mile Ridge SDA Church in Port Moresby echoed these sentiments, describing the mobile service booth as an excellent approach to member care."We have pastors who contribute to Nasfund but come from very rugged, inland parts of Central Province. This initiative brought essential services right to their doorstep," Pastor James said. "I was highly impressed with the service; I received my membership ID card on the spot and immediately chose to increase my voluntary superannuation contributions."Pastor James noted that the team's presentation on long-term wealth creation sparked significant interest among the clergy, motivating many to invest further by increasing their contribution rate above the standard 6% employee portion.Nasfund’s Employer Engagement Manager, Hamilton Riman, reported high engagement levels throughout the week-long event."We experienced high traffic during our engagement at the conference. The majority of participants visited our booth to collect member detail update forms and register for Eda Supa accounts," Riman said.Riman expressed his gratitude to the organizers of the Central Papua Conference for inviting Nasfund, emphasizing the fund’s ongoing commitment to making superannuation services accessible to all members, no matter how remote.
Published on September 25, 2026
CHOI IS NEW PINA PRESIDENT
CHOI IS NEW PINA PRESIDENT
In a milestone achievement for the media industry, the president of the Media Council Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) Mr. Neville Choi has been elected as President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA).Speaking to the Fijian media following the 8th Pacific Media Summit in Savusavu in Fiji this week, Mr. Choi expressed his gratitude for the confidence the PINA members had in him becoming President, and also underscored challenges the pacific media need to work together to address going forward under his leadership.He said there has to be more collaboration in the media in the pacific.“The Pacific needs to move forward collectively, and especially the media community in the pacific need to be a lot more united in everything you want to do,” said Mr. Choi.“I think there needs to be more inclusivity in bringing more of our membership, especially amongst the islands. Bring them into the fold so we can all move together and develop and grow at the same time.”He added that challenges to the media in the region can be achieved through good collaboration.“There are also challenges that each of our small island media are facing and I think the key is finding the solution to these challenges.”Underscoring the importance of correct and accurate information, he said fact checking and verification is what needs to be instilled more and developed, especially with the arrival of new technologies across the pacific islands.“I think it’s going to be the key focus and lead up to the next PINA summit in 2028 in PNG,” he stated.
Published on September 25, 2026
OPERATION HELA GUN-FREE: PROVINCE-WIDE AMNESTY 2026
OPERATION HELA GUN-FREE: PROVINCE-WIDE AMNESTY 2026
The Hela Provincial Police Command has launched Operation Hela Gun -Free (Operation Order 03/2026), a province-wide firearms and weapons Amnesty program.Officially opened on 18 September 2026 at Andaija oval in Tari by Police Minister Sir John Pundari, the voluntarily gun surrender program will run through 25 December 2026 under the theme: “Hand Your Gun In. Protect Your People. Choose Peace.”Hela Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Inspector Arau Mairi wants all factory-made firearms, homemade guns, ammunition, magazines, and parts including bows, arrows, spears, and wire catapults to be surrendered voluntarily.“No arrests for the weapons you hand in. No search of persons attending. No cordon-and-search in your community on event day. You will be issued a numbered receipt to keep it.“You will not be charged for having these guns because you have handed the guns voluntarily. The weapons can also be handed in through a church or community leader on your behalf with the same protection.”PPC Mairi urged the public to surrender their weapons in their respect districts or police stations as the gun surrender awareness program runs in following order:Tari-Pori district from 24th to 30th September 2026.Koroba-Lake Kopiago district -01st to 12th October13-24th October - Parliament session/No field activitiesKomo-Hulia district - 25th to 06th NovemberMagarima district - 08th - 11th NovemberFinal Provincial follow-up, surrender & reintegration - 12th November to 25th December 2026. PPC Mairi said after 25th December is an enforcement period as the amnesty closes with a Final Close-Out at Andaija Oval on 25 December and after this date, all protection ends.He noted that the lists of persons still holding on to the firearms will be passed to the targeted operations; the Kumul 23 Special Operations will be deployed, and cordon-and-search will resume.“Nogat Gun, Nogat Traibal Fait. A borrowed or hired gun in your hands is still yours in law. Bring it in.”PPC Mairi urged everyone to work together with the police and make Hela safe again by choosing peace, education, and their children.
Published on September 24, 2026
NEW TRAINING TO SUPPORT TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN IN WEST NEW BRITAIN
NEW TRAINING TO SUPPORT TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN IN WEST NEW BRITAIN
Children affected by violence, abuse, and trauma in West New Britain Province will have greater access to safe and appropriate support following a new training initiative for local health and social service workers.Thirty-six health and social service workers- comprising 20 women and 16 men from provincial and rural health facilities, the West New Britain Provincial Health Authority, and partner organizations across the Talasea, Nakanai, and Kandrian-Gloucester districts are now better equipped to recognize trauma, respond safely, and connect vulnerable children with necessary care.Because violence, abuse, disasters, and other traumatic events can inflict long-term effects on children’s health, development, and wellbeing, the program provided participants with practical skills to spot and address trauma early while helping children feel secure.West New Britain Provincial Health Authority Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joseph Nale emphasized the importance of strengthening frontline workforce capabilities.“Children are among our most vulnerable citizens, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they receive the care, protection, and support they need to heal and thrive.”“This training represents an important investment in building the capacity of our frontline workforce to respond effectively to child trauma.”Facilitator Sarah Kasa, representing the Morobe Provincial Health Authority Family Support Centre and serving as an Australia Awards alumna, highlighted the program's core mission for healthcare professionals.“Our goal is to ensure that children receive care and support that uphold their safety, dignity, and wellbeing. Building the capacity of frontline workers is critical to achieving this.”During the sessions, participants also explored strategies to apply and share their newly acquired knowledge within their workplaces and communities.Elsie Kitiman, Area Health Extension Officer for Hoskins Local Level Government, noted that a major takeaway was learning how to establish safe environments for affected children to speak openly while raising broader awareness of these issues.“Greater awareness in schools and communities can also help identify hidden cases and ensure children receive the support they need.”“When children grow up in safe and supportive environments, they are better able to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.”The training was delivered through a collaborative partnership between the West New Britain Provincial Health Authority and the Morobe Provincial Health Authority Family Support Centre, with co-funding provided by Australia and the West New Britain Provincial Health Authority.
Published on September 24, 2026
PNGRFL NAMES 2026 PM’S XIII SQUADS TO FACE AUSTRALIA
PNGRFL NAMES 2026 PM’S XIII SQUADS TO FACE AUSTRALIA
The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has named the Prime Minister’s XIII Men and Women’s select sides for their respective clashes against Australia on Saturday, 3 October at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stanley Hondina said that the Prime Minister’s XIII is an important annual fixture for Papua New Guinea and are pleased to once again welcome Australia to Port Moresby.“This fixture is more than just a game of footy. It reflects the strong bilateral relationship between our two countries- from government to government and country to country, but more importantly, the strong people-to-people connections we share.”“Most of the players and staff selected have come through our national domestic competitions, and that is something PNGRFL is very proud of. It reflects the investment we have made in our pathways systems over the past few years and the progress we are beginning to see.”“Congratulations to all the players selected in the men’s and women’s sides, as well as the coaches and support staff who will lead them. “PRIME MINISTER’S XIII MENThe Prime Minister’s XIII Men’s side features a strong blend of established players and emerging talent from the SP PNG Hunters, Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and other domestic competitions, alongside players gaining experience overseas.Leading the side is Wellington Albert, who is in his first season as Head Coach of the Port Moresby Vipers in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup. The appointment also marks Albert’s first opportunity to coach the Prime Minister’s XIII Men.20-Player SquadSanny Wabo – PNG HuntersChris Benjamin – ENB GuriasStanford Talita – Western ClydesdalesJayden Numapo – Kandes RLCBruce Bawase – PNG HuntersVictor Ario – Mendi MuruksFrancis Sam – Mendi MuruksKoso Bandi – PNG HuntersStanza Tandoa – Kandes RLCSylvester Namo – PNG HuntersMurray Connors – PNG HuntersJacob Taulani – Newcastle KnightsIla Alu – PNG HuntersEmmanuel Alfred – ENB GuriasXavier Turi – Hela WigmenJordan Pat – Mt Hagen EaglesModekai Waim – Enga MioksDou Tapako – Mendi MuruksLote Kuman – Hela WigmenJeremiah Ben – Port Moresby VipersFor Albert, the opportunity to lead the Prime Minister’s XIII Men comes with the responsibility of bringing the group together and preparing them to represent PNG against Australia.“Congratulations to all the players selected in the Prime Minister’s XIII Men’s squad. To earn a place in this team is a great achievement, and I want the players to take confidence from the opportunity while understanding the responsibility that comes with representing PNG.”“We have a strong group of players with a good mix of experience and emerging talent, and I’m looking forward to seeing them come together and give their very best against Australia.“I also want to thank PNGRFL for the opportunity to lead this team and for continuing to provide a platform for our players to test themselves at this level.”PRIME MINISTER’S XIII WOMENThe Prime Minister’s XIII Women’s side brings together leading players from the Santos Cup and those currently playing overseas, providing an opportunity for established representative players and emerging talent to test themselves against Australia.The side will be led by Cathy Neap, who brings a wealth of coaching experience after guiding the Gas Resources Central Dabaris to back-to-back Santos Cup premierships in 2025 and 2026.Neap has coached the Dabaris since the Santos Cup was introduced in 2024 and will now take on the opportunity to lead the Prime Minister’s XIII Women against Australia.20-Player SquadAlice Alois – Port Moresby VipersAnika Butler – Maitland PickersBelinda Gwasamun – Mt Hagen EaglesCynthia Peters – ENB GuriasDoreen William – Lae TigersGemma Schnaubelt – Western ClydesdalesGian Kaupa – Lae TigersJafinda Sap – Central DabarisIvania Wong – ACT BrumbiesJacinta Gerry – Mt Hagen EaglesJenny David – Brisbane TigersJosephine Howard – Central DabarisJoyce Hobert – Port Moresby VipersLila Malabag – Port Moresby VipersMala Mark – Central DabarisRuth Gende – Port Moresby VipersSareka Mooka – Northern PrideUa Ravu – South SydneySherinda Philip – Central DabarisMya Muller – Penrith PanthersNeap said the opportunity to represent PNG in front of a home crowd would be an important moment for the players and called on them to embrace the occasion and play for one another.Cathy Neap said: “I would like to congratulate every player selected in the Prime Minister’s XIII Women’s squad. Each of these players has worked hard to reach this level, and now they have a wonderful opportunity to represent Papua New Guinea in front of their home supporters.“I want the girls to believe in themselves, play for one another and show the commitment and determination they have demonstrated throughout their careers.“We are grateful to PNGRFL for giving us this opportunity and for continuing to invest in the growth of women’s rugby league in PNG.”
Published on September 24, 2026
YOUNGEST TENNIS PLAYERS SIGNAL BRIGHT FUTURE FOR PNG
YOUNGEST TENNIS PLAYERS SIGNAL BRIGHT FUTURE FOR PNG
The growth of the Under-10 division at the recent 2026 KPHL PNG Junior Tennis Championships has provided an encouraging glimpse of the next generation of tennis talent in Papua New Guinea.The three-day championships, which concluded at the Port Moresby Racquets Club on Sunday, featured 55 junior players competing across four age groups.PNG Tennis Association President Barbara Stubbings said the increased participation in the Under-10 division was particularly encouraging.“There is a great deal of young talent coming through, and we look forward to seeing these players continue to develop and grow through future tournaments.”In the Under-10 boys’ singles, Lawrence Rumbam took first place, followed by Edison Teh in second and Bjarne Refshauge in third.In the girls’ singles, Maria Michela Belen claimed first place, with Hebrew-Bulang Hakena finishing second and Kiara Tikari taking third.Stubbings said the growth of the youngest division showed there was a strong pool of young talent coming through the sport.The championships also recognized the importance of development beyond results, with Sandra Shelley of Goroka Tennis Club receiving the Under-10 Sportsmanship Award for her respect, fairness, positive attitude and improvement throughout the tournament.The Association says it hopes the young players will continue developing their skills and gain more experience through future competitions.
Published on September 24, 2026
PNG CPN TO HOST LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE, AGM AND FUNDRAISING DINNER
PNG CPN TO HOST LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE, AGM AND FUNDRAISING DINNER
The Papua New Guinea Christian Professionals Network Inc. (PNG CPN) will bring together Christian professionals, leaders and changemakers from across the country for a three-day gathering in Port Moresby this week.Formerly known as the PNGTSCF Graduates Network, PNG CPN has announced a series of events under the theme “Producing Results in the Marketplace.”The program will begin with two nights of leadership and spiritual transformation starting tonight, September 24, and Friday, September 25, at the Gateway Hotel, featuring guest speakers’ Ps Derrick Benson and Ps Michael Wilson.PNG CPN, which has been a formally registered association since 2013, says it intends to raise Christ-like leaders and empower members spiritually, mentally, physically and financially.The network has also highlighted programs delivered over the years, including Minds Meet forums, the Peace Ambassador program and CPN Connect.Financial members will meet for the organization’s Annual General Meeting on Saturday, September 26, from 9am to 1pm to review progress and receive financial reports for the 2025–2026 financial period.The three-day gathering will conclude with the 2026 Blue Print Dinner at the Gateway Hotel from 6pm on Saturday, with PNG Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe as the keynote speaker.Towe is expected to share insights on excellence, integrity and building a lasting legacy in public service and the marketplace.PNG CPN has set a fundraising target of K500,000 through the Blue Print Dinner to support its expanding capacity and 2026–2027 operational plan, and is calling on corporate, ministry and Christian professional partners to contribute.The organization is also encouraging Tertiary Students Christian Fellowship graduates and Christian professionals in the workforce to join its membership and reconnect with the network.
Published on September 24, 2026
AIR NIUGINI SUPPORTS LIFE-CHANGING CLEFT SURGERIES IN BOUGAINVILLE
AIR NIUGINI SUPPORTS LIFE-CHANGING CLEFT SURGERIES IN BOUGAINVILLE
Seventeen people from Bougainville, including 13 children, have received cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries through a partnership involving Air Niugini, the Rotary Club of Boroko and a specialist medical team from Port Moresby General Hospital.The surgical outreach was held at Buka General Hospital last month, with patients as young as nine months old receiving corrective procedures aimed at improving their health, speech development, confidence and quality of life.Air Niugini supported the medical team by helping transport specialist personnel and equipment to Bougainville, reducing some of the financial and logistical challenges families face when accessing specialist treatment in Port Moresby.Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alan Milne said the airline was pleased to support programs that improve access to essential healthcare services for communities across Papua New Guinea.The mission was led by the Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery Unit at Port Moresby General Hospital under Head Surgeon Dr. Jackson Nuli.Dr. Nuli explained that cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions that can affect appearance, speech and quality of life, with early surgical treatment important for supporting speech development and reducing the impacts of the conditions.He said bringing specialist services to provincial areas helps reduce the cost and difficulty of travelling to Port Moresby for treatment.“By bringing these services to the provinces, we are able to reduce that burden and ensure more children receive the care they need closer to home.”The Bougainville outreach was the team’s second specialist surgical mission to the region since 2025, bringing the total number of cleft surgeries performed there to 32.The team is scheduled to return to Bougainville in February 2027 for follow-up procedures and ongoing patient care.Similar outreach surgeries have also been conducted in Southern Highlands, Western Highlands, East New Britain, Morobe, East Sepik and West Sepik provinces over the past three years, with support from partners including Interplast Australia, PAN Australia and the Rotary Club of Boroko.
Published on September 24, 2026
AUSTRALIA, PNG DISCUSS SAFE AND INCLUSIVE USE OF AI
AUSTRALIA, PNG DISCUSS SAFE AND INCLUSIVE USE OF AI
Australia is working with Papua New Guinea and Indo-Pacific partners to support the safe, secure and inclusive adaptation of Artificial Intelligence (AI).The Australian Strategic Policy Institute’s Artificial Intelligence Masterclass in Canberra brought together senior government officials, industry representatives and civil society experts from across the region.The discussions focused on the opportunities, challenges and strategic implications of AI, as well as how emerging technologies can support economic development and improve lives.Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Jessica Hunter, moderated a panel discussion on AI adoption across the Indo-Pacific.The panel featured Department of Information, Communications and Technology Secretary Steven Matainaho, alongside international experts Vidushi Chaturvedi and Amit Shukla.Hunter said while AI is increasingly transforming strategic, economic and security planning across the region, collaboration and practical partnerships will be essential to ensuring countries can safely and effectively adopt the technology.“By sharing practical use cases, strengthening partnerships and learning from one another's experiences, countries across the Indo-Pacific can be more than just adopters; they can shape an AI-enabled future that is inclusive, practical and delivers real benefits for our communities,” Hunter said.Australia says it looks forward to deepening its partnership with PNG and other Indo-Pacific nations to promote the safe, secure and inclusive use of artificial intelligence for a more prosperous and resilient future for the region.
Published on September 23, 2026
ISOAIMO SUPPORTS CENTRAL’S K364.9 MILLION SUPPLEMENTARY BUDGET
ISOAIMO SUPPORTS CENTRAL’S K364.9 MILLION SUPPLEMENTARY BUDGET
Minister for Energy and Kairuku MP Peter Isoaimo has welcomed and supported the Central Provincial Government’s K364.9 million 2026 Supplementary Budget, while calling for stronger investment in district-level infrastructure across the province.Minister Isoaimo said the Supplementary Budget provides an important opportunity for the Central Provincial Government to address key development priorities and improve essential services for the people of Central Province.However, he expressed concern that the K5 million allocation for infrastructure development is insufficient to meet the infrastructure needs of all five districts.“I support the Supplementary Budget because it is intended to advance development and improve services for our people. However, we must also be realistic about the infrastructure needs across Central Province. Five million kina is not enough to address the infrastructure priorities of all five districts,” Minister Isoaimo said.He said infrastructure development must be coordinated between the Central Provincial Government, Open Members, District Administrators and local-level government authorities to ensure available funding is properly targeted and delivers tangible results.Following the intervention and support expressed by Abau MP Sir Puka Temu, Minister Isoaimo urged the Provincial Government to strengthen cooperation with all five Open Members and their respective District Administrations.He said greater collaboration would help prevent duplication of projects, improve planning and ensure limited government resources are directed towards priority infrastructure and services.Minister Isoaimo also called on the Central Provincial Government to give greater attention to the province’s three major provincial roads, which he said require continued upgrading and maintenance.“I would like to specifically appeal to the Central Provincial Government to look closely at our three provincial roads. These roads are important lifelines for our people and require proper upgrading, maintenance and long-term planning,” he said.Minister Isoaimo said better provincial road infrastructure would support the movement of people and goods, improve access to health and education services, and create opportunities for local economic development.The Kairuku MP also acknowledged and thanked the Governor and Central Provincial Administration for supporting important infrastructure improvements in Bereina, the administrative centre of Kairuku District.He specifically welcomed the renovation of the YC Hall at Bereina and fencing works around the Bereina Sporting Oval.He said the facilities were important community assets and the improvements would provide better venues for community activities, sporting events and public gatherings.“I would like to sincerely thank Madam Governor and the Central Provincial Administration for the work undertaken in Bereina, particularly the renovation of the YC Hall and the fencing around the Bereina Sporting Oval. These are important facilities for our people, and I appreciate the Provincial Government’s support,” Minister Isoaimo said.Minister Isoaimo said the development of Central Province must be approached as a shared responsibility, requiring the Provincial Government and the five Open Members to work together rather than operating in isolation.He reiterated his support for the K364.9 million 2026 Supplementary Budget, while calling for greater coordination, transparency and strategic allocation of infrastructure funding so that people across all five districts can benefit.“Central Province belongs to all of us. We have five districts, and each district has important development needs. I therefore encourage the Provincial Government, Open Members and District Administrators to work closely together so that every kina allocated for development delivers a meaningful benefit to our people,” he said.
Published on September 23, 2026
OK TEDI INTRODUCES WORLD’S FIRST ARCSAR NEO RADAR SYSTEMS
OK TEDI INTRODUCES WORLD’S FIRST ARCSAR NEO RADAR SYSTEMS
Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has announced the successful deployment and commissioning of the ArcSAR Neo slope stability monitoring radar system, becoming the first company in the world to acquire and deploy two units of this next-generation radar technology.In a statement issued by Ok Tedi, the company said the successful deployment of the ArcSAR Neo slope monitoring radar system provides a clear view of ground conditions, allowing monitoring to continue during network interruptions, and can automatically adjust its position after being moved for blasting activities. Given these features and the present ongoing challenges with the pit operations been narrow and deep, the new system is particularly valuable in Ok Tedi’s complex mining environment.The ArcSAR Neo was developed by IDS Geo Radar, a Hexagon company, and is designed to be most advanced in monitoring and detecting ground movements at an early stage. Its introduction demonstrates Ok Tedi’s ongoing commitment to improve safety, embrace innovative technology, and promote continuous improvement in geotechnical risk management.According to the statement, the system since its commissioning has demonstrated significant improvements in data quality, reliability, and confidence in decision-making.Equipped with advanced processing technology and sophisticated monitoring software, the ArcSAR Neo substantially reduces common sources of interference, including atmospheric conditions and signal distortions. This has resulted in fewer false alarms and more eligible slope stability assessments.The radar's enhanced resolution has enabled the detection of very small ground movements at an earlier stage, allowing potential risks to be identified early and managed proactively. This capability strengthens Ok Tedi's ability to maintain safe, productive, and efficient mining operations while effectively managing geo-technical hazards.The technology is said to be designed to perform in challenging environments; the ArcSAR Neo incorporates durability improvements that address historical issues such as water ingress, ensuring reliable operations in Ok Tedi’s high rainfall conditions.The new radar systems are being supported by trained and certified Ok Tedi technicians, with additional technical support from IDS GeoRadar specialists.While previous ArcSAR systems have delivered dependable service for many years, the ArcSAR Neo introduces a new level of precision, reliability and operational value.Ok Tedi will continue to assess the long-term performance of the technology under site-specific conditions and progressively integrate its outputs into the company’s broader strategy.The combined training and development of its technical personnel will help maximise the benefits of this strategic investment.The successful acquisition and deployment of the ArcSAR Neo radar system is Ok Tedi's commitment to leveraging innovative technology while improving safety outcomes, strengthening operational performance and supporting sustainable mining practices for the future.
Published on September 23, 2026
PRIME MINISTER’S XIII RETURNS TO PORT MORESBY FOR 2026 CLASH
PRIME MINISTER’S XIII RETURNS TO PORT MORESBY FOR 2026 CLASH
Rugby league fans in Papua New Guinea are set to witness the Prime Minister’s XIII when PNG hosts Australia at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on October 3.The annual fixture brings together representative players from both countries and provides an opportunity for emerging and established players to test themselves against high-level opposition.For Papua New Guinea, the Prime Minister’s XIII is also an opportunity to strengthen the sporting relationship between PNG and Australia while allowing local players to perform in front of a passionate home crowd.PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka said the return of the Prime Minister’s XIII provides an important opportunity to celebrate the relationship between the two countries through rugby league.“The Prime Minister’s XIII has become an important fixture for both Papua New Guinea and Australia, and we are pleased to welcome our Australian counterparts once again to Port Moresby. Rugby league has a unique ability to bring our two countries together, and this event gives us an opportunity to showcase the passion of our people while strengthening the connection between our two rugby league communities.”He said the event would also give PNG players an opportunity to experience representative football at home.“It is also an important opportunity for our players to experience representative football at home and for our supporters to see some of the emerging talent from both countries take the field at Santos National Football Stadium.”The 2026 Prime Minister’s XIII will feature four representative clashes involving PNG’s junior and senior national teams.2026 PRIME MINISTER’S XIII MATCH SCHEDULEJunior Orchids vs Australian SchoolgirlsDate: 03rd of October, 2026Time: 9:00 AMVenue: Santos National Football Stadium, Port MoresbyJunior Kumuls vs Australian SchoolboysDate: 03rd of October, 2026Time: 10:30 AMVenue: Santos National Football Stadium, Port MoresbyPNG Orchids vs Australian Women’s Prime Minister’s XIIIDate: 03rd of October, 2026Time: 12:15 PMVenue: Santos National Football Stadium, Port MoresbyPNG Kumuls vs Australian Men’s Prime Minister’s XIIIDate: 03rd of October, 2026Time: 02:05 PMVenue: Santos National Football Stadium, Port MoresbyPNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina said the event complements the organisation’s focus on developing players through domestic competitions and representative pathways.“The Prime Minister’s XIII is an important part of the pathway for our players because it gives them the opportunity to step into a representative environment and test themselves against quality opposition.”Hondina said players had progressed through domestic competitions and development pathways into the Prime Minister’s XIII, adding that PNGRFL wanted to continue building those opportunities.He also highlighted the inclusion of the women’s and junior teams as an important part of player development.The Junior Kumuls and Junior Orchids selections will provide young Papua New Guinean players with another development opportunity, with the teams drawing talent from domestic competitions and established development pathways.The senior PNG Orchids and Kumuls will also use the fixture to test themselves against Australian opposition in front of a home crowd.The Prime Minister’s XIII has a long history in Papua New Guinea, with the first PNG-Australia men’s fixture played in Port Moresby in 2005.The women’s fixture was introduced in 2017, while junior representative fixtures were added in 2023, expanding the program to provide opportunities across multiple levels of the game.Further details on the 2026 squads, coaching staff, ticketing and other arrangements will be released by PNGRFL as preparations for the Prime Minister’s XIII continue.
Published on September 23, 2026