Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today joined Queensland Premier Hon. David Crisafulli at the Queensland Parliament to formally sign the Papua New Guinea–Queensland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 2025–2030, a landmark framework that deepens Government-to-Government, Business-to-Business, and People-to-People cooperation between Papua New Guinea and the State of Queensland.
The MoU provides a multi-tiered structure for collaboration across economic development, education, cultural exchange, labour mobility, security, and critical services, serving as a key pillar in commemorating PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary this year.
Prime Minister Marape described the signing as “an important milestone in our shared history and our shared future”, emphasising the unique and 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,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Queensland’s exceptional recognition of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, including Parliamentary acknowledgements and the lighting of Brisbane’s iconic bridges in the colours of Papua New Guinea.
“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,” he said.
A Framework for Strategic Cooperation
The MoU establishes practical cooperation across three primary tiers — Government-to- Government, Business-to-Business, and People-to-People — and opens pathways across multiple priority sectors including health, education, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, SME development, law and justice, disaster resilience, and cultural and sporting exchange.
Prime Minister Marape noted that the framework aligns closely with PNG’s strategic development priorities and Queensland’s emerging workforce and service needs.
Strengthening Workforce and Skills Mobility
One of the central themes of today’s engagement was Queensland’s growing demand for skilled personnel across nursing, aged care, teaching, policing, emergency services, and technical sectors. Prime Minister Marape said PNG stands ready to contribute.
“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,” he said.
He reaffirmed PNG’s commitment to expanding education and vocational standards to align with Australian systems, ensuring mutual benefit in labour mobility.
Enhanced Security, Defence, and Emergency Cooperation
Prime Minister Marape welcomed Queensland’s advancements in policing capability, including the roll-out of next-generation Taser 10 systems, noting the importance of shared training, interoperability, and frontline cooperation.
“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,” he said.
Both leaders agreed to explore combined defence training pathways that recognise PNG’s large youth demographic and Australia’s future personnel needs.
Economic and Clean Energy Partnership
The Prime Minister highlighted PNG’s potential to support Queensland’s transition to cleaner energy sources through hydropower generation and renewable energy exports.
“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.
The MoU also supports greater business-to-business collaboration, SME development, mining and resources opportunities, and infrastructure partnerships.
Boosting Connectivity and Aviation Links
Prime Minister Marape and Premier Crisafulli discussed opportunities for expanded direct flights between PNG and Queensland, particularly Brisbane, Cairns, and Townsville.
Greater aviation connectivity will strengthen trade, tourism, labour mobility, and support service delivery to Torres Strait communities.
Cultural, Educational, and Sporting Exchange
Emphasising people-to-people ties, the Prime Minister celebrated the cultural and sporting links between the two jurisdictions — particularly through 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.
The MoU also encourages deeper collaboration in arts, education, cultural heritage, and youth exchange programs.
A Partnership Built on History and a Shared Future
Prime Minister Marape reflected on the historic connections between communities in PNG and Queensland, including the 25,000 Papua New Guineans who call Queensland home.
“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.
He thanked Premier Crisafulli for his strong personal leadership in strengthening ties between PNG and Queensland.
“This MoU is not just paperwork — it is a commitment to walk together into the next 50 years. PNG will always treat Queensland with fairness, respect, and partnership. Our relationship is strategic, equal, and enduring. We succeed together.”
The PNG–Queensland MoU takes effect immediately and will remain active for five years, overseen by a Joint Working Group representing both Governments.