13 YEARS OF PARTNERSHIP SHAPING PNG’S LEGAL LEADERS – A NEW GENERATION STEPS FORWARD
A new wave of Papua New Guinean legal talent is stepping confidently into the courtroom, equipped with sharper advocacy skills and a deeper understanding of commercial litigation—thanks to a transformative Australian-funded partnership between Papua New Guinea’s Legal Training Institute (LTI) and the Queensland Bar Association of Australia.
From 1st to the 5th of September, 82 LTI students—including 37 women— immersed themselves in a dynamic, weeklong commercial litigation workshop in Port Moresby, supported under the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law & Justice Partnership (APLJ).
The workshop marked a major milestone in a collaboration that has grown steadily over more than a decade. Over five intensive days, students honed their courtroom skills through hands-on training and mentorship from senior Queensland barristers, who shared not only their legal expertise but also real-world insights from the frontlines of litigation.
“This partnership reflects the enduring commitment between Australia and Papua New Guinea to strengthen the rule of law through practical, skills-based legal education. We’re proud to support the next generation of PNG’s legal professionals by equipping them not only with technical expertise, but also with the confidence and integrity to serve their communities and uphold justice,” said Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor, Elizabeth Le Bas.
What began as a modest exchange has grown into a yearly tradition, a cherished week of intensive training and mentorship, building connections that last well beyond the classroom.
The visiting Queensland barristers have been honoured to help train hundreds of aspiring Papua New Guinean emerging lawyers and further strengthen the close professional ties between PNG and Australia’s legal communities.
The partnership is a cornerstone of Australia’s support for PNG’s justice sector, helping to build a legal workforce that is skilled, principled, and ready to uphold the rule of law.
Now in its 14th year, the LTI–Queensland Bar partnership continues to invest in PNG’s future legal leaders—ensuring they are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow with confidence, integrity, and a deep respect for justice.
