Australia supports critical infrastructure upgrades at Bomana Prison and across PNG

PNG Correctional Service Commissioner Noel Sarei during the Bomana Prison design concept review, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration to strengthen correctional services and infrastructure.

PROGRESS is underway on priority infrastructure improvements at Bomana Correctional Institution.

Papua New Guinea Correctional Service (PNGCS) leaders have reviewed concept designs ahead of moving to the next stage of construction planning.

Delivered through the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership, four projects will provide a new administration office, a solar backup power system, a new 40-bed women's dormitory and upgraded women's ablution facilities. Together, this infrastructure will strengthen security and operational capacity, improve essential services and provide safer, more appropriate facilities for women in custody at Bomana.

PNGCS Commissioner Noel Sarei underscored the importance of upgrading aging infrastructure to support PNGCS operational needs and future priorities.

 Australian High Commission representative (left) provides closing remarks, reaffirming Australia’s support for PNG Correctional Service priorities and safer, more secure correctional facilities.

“We greatly appreciate Australia’s support and look forward to continued collaboration with the Australian Government to strengthen correctional services across Papua New Guinea,” Commissioner Sarei said.

The Bomana infrastructural investments form part of the broader Australian Government partnership with PNGCS to strengthen correctional services across the country. Australia is providing targeted infrastructure upgrades and security improvements to correctional facilities across the country, alongside technical assistance, leadership development and capacity strengthening for correctional officers across the entire correctional service.

These investments build on ongoing collaboration between Australia and PNGCS to identify infrastructure needs, develop practical solutions and progressively strengthen correctional facilities across the country.

By combining infrastructure investment with institutional strengthening, the partnership is helping PNGCS improve the safety, security and effectiveness of correctional facilities while supporting rehabilitation outcomes and contributing to a stronger law and justice system for Papua New Guinea.

The Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership is a PNG law and justice sector-led initiative. Australia is proud to support practical, locally led efforts that improve coordination and outcomes across the law and justice sector.