Prime Minister Hon. James Marape says the 2026 National Budget reflects Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Human Capital through expanded Health and Education investments, aligning with PNG’s 50-year Vision and the Reset@50 national renewal framework.
“Our people are our greatest resource,” PM Marape said. “This Budget shows our determination to equip our children with quality Education and ensure our families access strong and reliable Health services.”
Record K4.935 Billion for Education
The 2026 Budget delivers an 11.3% increase in the Education sector, bringing total funding to K4,935 million. Key allocations include:
– K251 million increase in Teacher Salaries, raising total Teacher Wage funding to K2.532 billion
– GTFS and Project Fee support up from K860m to K905m
– TESAS & HELP funding rising from K152m to K157m
PM Marape commended the Treasurer for addressing long-standing issues:
“Ensuring Teachers are paid correctly and on time is fundamental to stability in our Education system. This increase strengthens service delivery where it matters most—in the classroom.”
Health Sector Receives K3.205 Billion (15.8% Increase)
Health spending also increases substantially, to K3.205 billion, to improve frontline services, drug supply, and hospital operations. Highlights include:
– K88 million increase for Provincial Health Authorities, bringing total to K1.476 billion
– Medical supplies funding increase from K240m to K267m
– 73% increase for Vaccines
– 40%+ increase for Malaria, TB, and essential Drugs
– Church & Catholic Health Services funding rises 22% to K259m
“Church-based Health providers play a vital role, especially in rural PNG. This increase recognises their indispensable contribution,” PM Marape said.
Human Capital as a Development Priority
The Prime Minister emphasised that investing in people is essential for uplifting living standards and enabling long-term economic prosperity.
“Healthy and educated citizens are the engine of economic growth. This Budget aligns our fiscal strategy with the long-term well-being of our people.”
Reset@50: Building Foundations for a Stronger Future
Marape stressed that PNG’s next 50 years require investment not only in infrastructure, but in human development—health, education, nutrition, and skills.
“This Budget gives our nation confidence that the next generation will be more educated, healthier, and better prepared to take PNG forward.”
Practical Relief for Families
PM Marape highlighted the continuation of cost-of-living relief measures—such as GTFS subsidies and the tax-free threshold increase—which directly reduce pressure on low-income families.
“We are delivering real, practical assistance that keeps more money in family pockets,” he said.