Comments

Thanks for this Lisa, it is good to see some optimism among the frustration and disappointment. One of my fears though is that this is going to push back the localisation and decolonisation agendas and fuel an even more arduous approach to risk from donors. The 'efficiency' and 'waste' narrative, the fake news and misrepresentation of some of the programs USAID was supporting, the obsession with labelling anything to do with equality and rights as 'woke' -- fighting a disinformation machine seems like a challenging task for an already gutted sector. Among aid sceptics there is very little understanding that localisation is a tool for effectiveness, not a 'risk' to donor funds, for example. There's still even scepticism among the uninformed about the effectiveness of cash, for example, despite so much evidence. It worries me. Especially as we are heading into an election campaign period ourselves. One thing I would add to your list is that we need to ensure we don't walk away from rights-based approaches just to appease loud, uninformed voices. We should be loudly and firmly communicating why we invest in this work and addressing disinfo head on. On that note, I was really pleased to see Australia's new International Gender Equality Strategy come out in the midst of all this -- I was heartened that our government was clearly affirming our commitments.

I completely agree!

Hi Ben, You will have to reach out to the Cocoa Board to find out more details: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cocoa-Board-Of-Papua-New-Guinea/61565939244651/?_rdr Tom

Hi James, Thanks for reading. You will have to reach out to the Cocoa Board to find out more details: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cocoa-Board-Of-Papua-New-Guinea/61565939244651/?_rdr Tom

I heard Cocoa being introduced into lower higlands provinces in PNG such as goroka, chimbu, Jiwaka and part of Western Highlands province. Can some elaborate on the progress on cocoa farming in these provinces!

Thank you Natasha for the insightful research update. As per the Department of Home Affairs advice, are we expecting another draw before February ends?

Thank you Larisa for sharing your brother's experience. So your brother has already traveled to Australia working?

Thank you Natasha for your valuable research and findings. You have highlighted the impact of securing a job is having on those applicants. My daughter is one of those who was just recently issued a PEV and she is actively looking for a job to meet that criteria. I believe more awareness by DHA and PEV Support Team would be great. It's a great opportunity and thanks to the Australian Government. Natasha thank you once for your valuable insight. 🙏

To work and live in Australia is very stressful. Besides the bills and so on. In terms of employment it's a good idea however, still the Australian Government makes it complicated for PNG citizens' entry compared to other countries but the Pacific and other continents. The idea supposed to be taken up by the PNG Government dealing with Home Affairs. Poor PNGeans are struggling with getting a visa and finding a job.

Thank you Natasha for the much needed update.

Hi Natasha, Thank you so much for your message and interesting research. I just wanted to share my thoughts on how we can improve the process and maximize the number of PNG intakes, compared to other Pacific Island countries. To process visa and organize Papua New Guineans is a complex responsibility so extend deadlines.

When will be the next ballot of PEV open for this year 2025?