AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS TWO MAJOR ROAD WORKS IN WNB AND MADANG WITH K20 MILLION

THE Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) has finalised two major roadwork contracts to upgrade priority sections of the national highway network, with support from Australia’s Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 (TSSP3) valued at nearly PGK20 million, the contracts were awarded by the National Procurement Commission to PNG-owned firms. These investments will strengthen local capacity, generate employment and improve critical transport infrastructure in West New Britain and Madang provinces.

In West New Britain, Jay LW Contractors Limited has been awarded an almost PGK10 million contract for pavement rehabilitation and resealing works on a 24 kilometre section of the New Britain Highway between Balaha Box Culvert and Tiauru Bridge No. 1.

These upgrades will enhance safety and provide more reliable road access for communities and businesses along this strategic agricultural corridor.

In Madang, South Pacific Construction Limited will undertake pavement repairs on 41.2 km of the Coastal Highway, following the award of a similar sized contract.

The works will target critical sections and bridge approaches from Airport Junction to Surumarang Bridge, ensuring continued connectivity between the provincial capital and surrounding districts.

DoWH Secretary Gibson Holemba welcomed the contract signings.“These investments demonstrate the Department’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable and climate-resilient infrastructure through open and competitive national procurement systems,” Secretary Holemba said.

“With strong support from our development partner Australia, we are also building
capacity within local contracting and supervision services. This is key to sustaining transport infrastructure across PNG,” he added.

Dr Cate Rogers, Minister Counsellor Infrastructure Australian High Commission, reaffirmed Australia’s support for local content and PNG leadership.

“Australia is proud to support infrastructure delivery that improves roads, builds PNG’s national systems and strengthens local industry. Prioritising local content, skills and suppliers is central to the way we work together.”
As Papua New Guinea marks 50 years of independence, these works reflect the enduring development partnership between PNG and Australia.

TSSP3 continues to support DoWH to rehabilitate roads, strengthen bridges, assess climate risks and foster institutional reform for a more effective, efficient and inclusive transport system for all Papua New Guineans.