Prime Minister James Marape and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli on 10 December signed the Papua New Guinea–Queensland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 2025–2030 at the Queensland Parliament, establishing a framework to deepen Government-to-Government, Business-to-Business, and People-to-People ties.
The MoU provides a multi-tiered structure for collaboration across economic development, education, cultural exchange, labour mobility, security, and critical services. It also forms a key part of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
Marape described the signing as “an important milestone in our shared history and our shared future,” highlighting the enduring connections between PNG and Queensland.
“Queensland is Papua New Guinea’s closest neighbour and one of our closest friends. Geography and history have placed us side by side, and this MoU ensures that our partnership continues to grow in depth, respect, and practical cooperation,” he said.
He also praised Queensland’s recognition of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, including parliamentary acknowledgements and the lighting of Brisbane’s iconic bridges in PNG’s colours. “We could not have asked for a more meaningful tribute. Queensland honoured PNG in a way that reflects our deep friendship, and today’s MoU strengthens that bond for the next 50 years,” Marape added.
A Framework for Strategic Cooperation
The MoU establishes practical collaboration across three tiers — Government-to-Government, Business-to-Business, and People-to-People — and covers priority sectors including health, education, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, SME development, law and justice, disaster resilience, and cultural and sporting exchange.
Workforce and Skills Mobility
The MoU also addresses Queensland’s growing demand for skilled personnel in nursing, aged care, teaching, policing, emergency services, and technical sectors. Marape emphasised PNG’s readiness to contribute, noting: “PNG has a young, energetic population. If we train them to Australian standards, we can help Queensland fill its workforce shortages while strengthening our own capabilities when our citizens return home with new skills.”
Security, Defence, and Emergency Cooperation
Both leaders agreed to expand joint security initiatives and defence training, recognising that regional security is interlinked. “Security in the Torres Strait region and northern Australia is linked directly to security in PNG. What happens in PNG affects Queensland, and what happens in Queensland affects PNG. It is only natural that we strengthen our cooperation,” Marape said.
Economic and Clean Energy Partnership
The MoU also supports business-to-business collaboration, SME development, mining and resources opportunities, infrastructure partnerships, and clean energy development. Marape highlighted PNG’s potential to assist Queensland’s transition to renewable energy. “PNG is blessed with vast hydropower and renewable energy potential. Queensland’s transition presents an opportunity for us to work together for economic and environmental benefit,” he said.
Connectivity and Aviation Links
The MoU encourages expanded direct flights between PNG and Queensland to strengthen trade, tourism, labour mobility, and service delivery to Torres Strait communities.
Cultural, Educational, and Sporting Exchange
Emphasising people-to-people ties, Marape noted the importance of cultural and sporting links, particularly rugby league. “Rugby league is more than sport for our peoples — it is culture, unity and identity. Queensland’s support as PNG prepares for the NRL PNG Chiefs team is deeply appreciated,” he said.
A Shared Future
Marape reflected on historic connections between PNG and Queensland, including the 25,000 Papua New Guineans living in Queensland. “Our people lived across this region long before modern borders existed. Our children will share this region long after us. This MoU ensures that their future is shaped by cooperation, not distance,” he said.
The PNG–Queensland MoU takes effect immediately and will remain active for five years, overseen by a Joint Working Group representing both governments.
