AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS RESOURCE CENTRE TO STRENGTHEN PNG WOMEN`S ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION

 The Papua New Guinea Women’s Business Resource Centre (PNGWBRC) has reached a major milestone, officially becoming a fully independent Papua New Guinean organisation.

According to Australian High Commission this achievement was marked by the signing of an agreement in November 2025 with Australia’s PNG Women Lead (PNGWL) program to receive direct funding from the Australian Government.

The agreement will support PNGWBRC’s programs to June 2027, driving initiatives that strengthen women’s economic participation and leadership across Papua New Guinea.

Across PNG, women face systemic barriers to business ownership and leadership, including limited access to finance, education, and safe business environments— challenges compounded by gender-based violence and entrenched social norms.

PNGWBRC was established to address these realities and has grown from an initiative into a respected, locally governed organisation with a national presence. Since the establishment in 2016, with assistance from the Australian Government and Centre for International Private Enterprise, the PNGWBRC has functioned as a respected hub for women’s business resources and empowerment initiatives.

Today, PNGWBRC stands as a Papua New Guinean-owned, led, governed, and staffed organisation, driving capacity-building and economic empowerment programs for women-led small businesses. “This is a defining moment for PNGWBRC and for women entrepreneurs across Papua New Guinea,” said Eli Webb, PNGWBRC Executive Director. “Becoming an independent entity means we can lead with our own vision, strengthen local capacity, and deliver programs that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of PNG women in business.”

This achievement reflects the dedication of PNGWBRC staff, and Australia’s commitment to locally led development.