Comments

PNG is no exception of bribery and dishonesty. this is a good article. people won't change their mindset even in the later year

We never reveal who writes what but I would point out that the commitment is to waive fees for visas not to make the process for getting them any more or less complicated or time consuming.

I assume that your assumption about PNG given Ausralians visa-free entry is tongue-in-cheek.

Analysis has shown (OECD, various) that governments will have foreign aid programs whether there is negative public opinion and dissent or not, as aid policy is really an elite issue. Communication on Australia’s foreign aid program should be focused on limiting dissent, educating those elites that have a voice in foreign aid policy such as members of cabinet and parliament and convincing those which are able to be convinced, the 'charity begins at home' crowd, of the importance of Australia’s aid program. This is perhaps an area which is quite unique in terms of public policy formulation and political communication and warrants a deeper understanding

I think it is deplorable that Radio Australia broadcasts have been shelved. In my opinion it is a vital trusted service which they can rely on to be a true account of events for our neighbours, loving Rugby as they do !

Thanks Tess

This issue is on the agenda of the forthcoming meeting of Friends of the ABC 6th October

agreed. A myopic decision made by people who'd never slept beyond the shadow of a Telstra tower.

Thanks John for raising this important issue. There are many radio stations owned and run by PNG firms but they don't cover wide and important news items like Radio Australia did. Like many other Papua New Guineans did, I used to tune in and enjoy wide variety of detailed both local and international news that are very relevant to the country. It is very regretful to lose this vital radio service. Australia must work to restore this broadcast.

Thanks Wes. I don't doubt there's concern in the region about Australia's (crazy) plans to subsidise coal. That said, discussion at the Forum meeting seems to have been managed in such a way as to avoid conflict around such issues. Interesting, right?

Thanks for your interest in the book John. The e-book is available through Amazon, which is the cheapest I can find: https://www.amazon.com.au/Anti-Corruption-its-Discontents-International-Perspectives-ebook/dp/B074JBX8DR The hard copy is available through the publisher (20%discount code: FLR40): https://www.routledge.com/Anti-Corruption-and-its-Discontents-Local-National-and-International/Walton/p/book/9781138698024 I'm also exploring options to distribute it through a PNG publisher, but that might take some time. Best Grant

Thanks for the update, Jo. That is very curious.