Labour governance
New programme to strengthen labour governance in Papua New Guinea launched
Funded by Australia with technical support from the ILO, the program aims to enhance labour protections, promote social dialogue, and improve labour market administration across Papua New Guinea.
18 July 2025
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (ILO News) – The International Labour Organization (ILO), the Government of Papua New Guinea, and the Australian Government have officially launched the Improving Labour Governance in Papua New Guinea programme — a transformative three-year initiative aimed at strengthening labour market systems and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The launch ceremony was held on 16 July 2025 at the Ministry for Labour and Employment in Port Moresby and officiated by Hon. Kessy Sawang, MP, Minister for Labour and Employment. Also in attendance were Dr. Cate Rogers, Minister Counsellor (Economics & Infrastructure) at the Australian High Commission, and Martin Wandera, Director of the ILO Office for Pacific Island Countries.
Funded by the Australian Government, the initiative seeks to enhance governance and administration of the national labour market. The Government of Papua New Guinea will support key components of the programme, including the implementation of a Labour Force Survey. The ILO will contribute in-kind support through technical expertise and advisory services.
Minister Sawang described the initiative as a major step forward in building a fairer and more resilient workforce:
“This project will be pivotal in advancing the core mandate of my Ministry and the Department of Labour and Industrial Relations by strengthening labour governance, improving legal protections and workplace standards, promoting inclusion and social dialogue, and enhancing labour market data systems.”
Dr. Cate Rogers welcomed the program as a reflection of continued regional cooperation:
“This three-year programme is a partnership between Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the ILO to build a stronger and more inclusive labour governance system in PNG. Together, we're strengthening labour laws, improving data for policymaking, and fostering collaboration between government, employers and workers.”
Martin Wandera reaffirmed the ILO’s ongoing support for Papua New Guinea’s labour reform efforts:
“This launch marks an important milestone in our collective mission to advance our shared vision of achieving decent work and social justice. The ILO is proud to be part of this partnership and looks forward to supporting its success.”
The event concluded with the formal exchange of signed agreements and a shared commitment by all partners to collaborate closely in delivering the programme’s objectives.