Defence minister Dr. Billy Joseph announced today that the Pukpuk Treaty, agreement between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia will commence working together on a recruitment pathway to enable PNG citizens to join the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
According tr Dr. Billy an essential part of this, both countries will establish a bilateral PNG-Australia recruitment taskforce to oversee the development of that pathway.
He said the taskforce will also focus on providing opportunities to PNG’s youth, while maintaining the integrity of ADF recruitment standards and continuing to help support growth of the PNGDF as an independent sovereign force. PNG and Australia will work in partnership to develop a sustainable pathway for PNG citizens to enlist in the ADF.
He said this initiative will take time to develop and refine, however both PNG and Australia are committed to its success.
This builds on the announcement that eligible permanent residents living in Australia who are also PNG citizens can apply to join the ADF from 1 January 2026.
Minister Billy said developing a recruitment pathway from PNG into the Australian Defence Force is a historic step, reflecting the shared history and commitment to enhance integration between the two countries.
“Since beginning this process in January, we have now seen a transformation in our defence relationship through the signing of the Pukpuk Treaty, which is reflected in what we are doing in terms of recruitment, our joint exercises and our operations.” Dr. Billy said.
The recruitment taskforce will be led by Billy Joseph and Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, and officials from both countries.
The first meeting will be held before the end of the year ends.
I’m really interested to apply for adf and I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity