Photo credit: Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific
According to Australia's consul general Mark Fox, the country is contributing more than K1 billion to the development of Morobe's port and road infrastructure.
According to Fox, investment in the industries was essential to propel the economy because of the province's contribution to PNG's economic growth.
Australia is dedicated to providing high-quality infrastructure to support enterprises in the province, he said during a breakfast meeting with Lae's business community.
According to Fox, K56 million has been allocated for the Wau Highway's long-term upkeep in order to cut down on travel time and costs for nearby enterprises.
Sections one and two of the trans-national highway will be supported with the help of another A$300 million (or K690 million) from the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific.
“That’s from the Nine-mile junction, through to the Bulolo turn off, and then on to Poiyu junction in Aseki,” he said.
“This is a key priority of the PNG government as part of the connect PNG strategy, and in time will connect Lae to Port Moresby.”
Fox said Australia was also picking up a presence in PNG’s maritime sector, with a more visible presence in Morobe through the K470 million upgrade of the Lae Tidal Basin.
“This upgrade includes lengthening of the wharf, additional container yard space, enabling the port to handle more and larger vessels,” he said.
“As the port of Lae already handles over 60 percent of PNG’s international and coastal trade, this improvement will position Lae to become the trading shipment hub for the region.
“Our investments have a strong focus on quality, value for money, and local content; and as part of the K1.5 billion contract signed between our countries earlier this year for the infrastructure investment programme.”
In order to enhance the efficiency of the supply networks connecting the highlands to the ports in Lae and Madang, PNG Ports is also attempting to construct an inland town.
Reference: Bauai, Gloria. The National (10 October 2022).”Aust invests over K1bil in Morobe”
