Australia will now process travel visa applications from Papua New Guinea (PNG) citizens within seven days, announced Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Wong emphasized the importance of welcoming Papua New Guineans to Australia, stating, "We are welcoming Papua New Guineans and friends to Australian shores." She highlighted the expansion of opportunities for Papua New Guineans in the Australian labour market, particularly through increased training and skilled labour under the Pacific engagement visa. In 2023, ministers from Australia and PNG agreed to process at least 75 percent of completed visa applications within 14 days. This timeline was previously reduced from 30 days to 14 days and has now been further shortened to seven days.
Wong remarked on the benefits of efficient and speedy visa issuing arrangements, noting that they would help underpin labour, business, and broader people-to-people connections. "A range of steps will be taken to improve the systems in place, but for now, we are implementing our new approach to the region and are pleased to allocate the largest support to PNG," she said. Wong underscored the unique partnership between the two nations, noting that PNG is the only country with which Australia has a ministerial forum. Expressing pride in her government's efforts, Wong said, "I am very proud of the work my Government is doing to ensure we put First Nations’ perspectives at the heart of Australia’s foreign policy. We stand ready to commit in any way so what we have recommended in 2023 together will be delivered in 2024." PNG Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko welcomed the new visa initiative, highlighting its potential to support economic, business, and people-to-people connections. "This opens up opportunities for more Papua New Guineans to enter Australia under work and training arrangements," he said. This expedited visa processing initiative marks a significant step in strengthening the ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea, facilitating greater collaboration and exchange in various sectors. Also read Comments are closed.
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