Law and Justice

Law and justice issues are a significant impediment to Papua New Guinea's social and economic development.

Australia is providing around $200 million from 2003 to 2009 to increase the responsiveness of the justice system at the national, provincial and community levels.

This includes improved delivery of legal and judicial services and law enforcement.

Major aid activities

Australia's aid program in PNG supports three major activities in the law and justice sector.

Enhanced Cooperation Program (ECP) (non-policing law and justice)

The Enhanced Cooperation Programhas increased Australian assistance in the law and justice sector of PNG. This includes support for deploying Australian specialists in significant areas in PNG. The program complements AusAID's Law and Justice Sector Program and provides for better law and justice outcomes in PNG through the coordinated efforts of all Australian Government assistance.

Contribution to date: around $13 million
Duration: current treaty covers 2004-2008

Law and Justice Sector Program

Contribution: $150 million
Duration: 2004-2009

Australia's assistance in PNG supports the law and justice sector as a whole. The program provides flexible and coordinated support to law and justice agencies and community organisations, with PNG and Australia jointly agreeing on priority areas of support.

As part of their annual planning and budgeting, PNG's law and justice agencies produce annual plans identifying activities important for meeting the sector's priorities. Agencies include Police, Correctional Services, Ombudsman Commission, Justice and Attorney-General's, Judiciary and Magisterial Services. Some activities need co-operative efforts across agencies, for example improving criminal case management, while others may be within one agency only for example improving prison security and health.

Justice Advisory Group (JAG)

Contribution: $14.1 million
Duration: 2003-2008

The JAG aims to improve coordination between PNG's law and justice agencies and the ability of the sector to monitor its performance. It consists of a team of independent advisors who work closely with the senior management of all law and justice agencies. The JAG also provides advice to PNG and Australia on policy, management and operational matters.

July 2007