PNG applicants able to apply to join Australian Defence Force next month

The program will start small to ensure the right processes are in place ahead of further expansion, and was originally part of the Papua New Guinea-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty, known as the Pukpuk Treaty, signed on October 6 last year.

All applicants will be required to undergo assessment against ADF entry standards, including aptitude, education, health and fitness requirements.

As Australian citizenship is a requirement of ongoing ADF service, successful Papua New Guinean recruits must apply for Australian citizenship once they become eligible to do so.

“This is a momentous occasion for our Alliance and the history of our two nations; a history that includes unbreakable bonds forged during World War Two,” according to Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Defence Elias Kapavore.

“Papua New Guinea and Australia share many things in common; our democratic values, love of rugby league and our respect for the armed forces.

“I encourage those Papua New Guineans who are eligible to consider applying to join the Australian Defence Force and becoming the face and pride of our Alliance.”

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The announcement reportedly reflects the close relationship between our nations and recognises that the security and stability of Australia and Papua New Guinea are closely connected, according to a statement from the Australian Government.

“Not only is this a huge moment for the Australian Defence Force, but also for the history of Papua New Guinea, and our bilateral relationship,” according to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles.

“As seen in the participation of two Papua New Guinea Defence Force aircraft and over 20 personnel in this year’s Exercise Pitch Black, our shared commitment to interoperability has made the recruitment of Papua New Guinean citizens into the ADF a reality.

“I look forward to welcoming eligible Papua New Guineans into our defence force, and seeing them serve shoulder-to-shoulder with our people.”

Robert Dougherty

Author

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.

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