NEWS
GOVERNMENT PLANS MAJOR REFORMS TO PNGDF RECRUITMENT

PNG Haus Bung By PNG Haus Bung | April 17, 2026

GOVERNMENT PLANS MAJOR REFORMS TO PNGDF RECRUITMENT

The National Government is serious in addressing and improve the recruitment process of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) going forward, by focusing on introducing some big changes to the process.

Prime Minister James Marape, when announcing the independent probe and reforms to PNGDF recruitment this week, said, the government will introduce major reforms to strengthen transparency and equal opportunity in defence force recruitment.

PM Marape outlined the key reforms. They include:

• Prioritizing recruitment of Grade 12 school leavers nationwide,

• Introducing a quota system to ensure fair representation from all provinces, including National Capital District landowners and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and

• Extending similar recruitment standards to other disciplined services.

“This reform ensures young Papua New Guineans have a fair and equal chance to serve their country, based on merit and transparency,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Prime Minister Marape said the Government remains committed to rebuilding a professional and disciplined Defence Force that reflects the best of Papua New Guinea.

“We are building a Defence Force that is fair, transparent, and capable of serving our nation with honour. This process is about getting it right — once and for all,” he said.