What is the PNG Advisory Support Facility?

The PNG Advisory Support Facility (ASFII) is an Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) funded program providing the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) with access to technical experts from overseas and also here in PNG. The first phase of ASFII operated from 1998-2003. The second phase operated for three years from 2003-2006. This second phase (ASFII) built on the experience of ASFI but was more strategic and focused in its placement of Advisers, most of which were involved in supporting public sector reform and the promotion of good governance. The two-year extension of ASF II commenced on 1 April 2006 and was scheduled to conclude on 31 March 2008, however, a further extension of one year has been granted which will take the program to 31 March 2009 and this is likely to be extended until December 2009 till allow the transition to the new program replacing ASFII.

AusAID has indicated that it will be developing a program or facility to carry on from ASFII, which is expected to be operating by late 2009. Advisers whose contracts run past this date can expect to be transferred to that new facility or program at the end of 2009.

Who manages the ASF?

Coffey International Development, an international development company, is the Managing Contactor for ASF.

Is it safe to live in Papua New Guinea?

Yes, as shown by the fact that there are many hundreds of expatriate families currently living in Port Moresby and other parts of the country. It is true that Port Moresby and other major centres do have a high crime rate and this cannot be ignored. Care does need to be taken to minimise risks to person and property and this will mean making some changes to your lifestyle, including living in a secure apartment block. Initially, security measures such as bars on windows, dead-locks and security fencing may seem intrusive but security awareness soon becomes a part of normal life here and does not unduly bother advisers or their families. Accommodation, transport and activities are planned and arranged to accommodate restrictions so residents can, and do, participate in a range of activities. The fact is that expatriates are rarely the victims of crime on Port Moresby – this burden falls mainly on PNG citizens who are usually unable to take the same precautions.

What health services are available?

Depending on where you are located in PNG and the nature of the illness, the health services are good to adequate. In Port Moresby there are 24 hour medical facilities, doctors and dentists, as well as a range of specialist services provided through the private hospitals. In other centres the medical and hospital services are more limited. Most expatriates travel to Australia for specialised treatment or surgery, but medical facilities are more than adequate for day-to-day complaints and for the treatment of tropical diseases. Vaccinations and prophylaxis are important and you should consult your doctor about these. There are several chemists in Port Moresby and other major centres, carrying the usual pharmacy lines. If they do not have a particular drug in stock, chemists can get it in within a week or so.

What is the standard of accommodation in Port Moresby?

Excellent accommodation in Port Moresby is available (although there is some pressure on the higher range apartments in 2007). Prices range from K2000 - K3000 per week plus VAT for apartments – as always 'you get what you pay for' and security and comfort improve the more you pay. Most advisers live in secure 'compounds' (not as daunting as they sound!) that have communal facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, barbecue area and a 24 hour controlled access gate. Most apartments are fully furnished, including washing machine, drier, stove, microwave and fridge. Television sets are often not provided but can be purchased new or second-hand. Smaller appliances (e.g. kettle, BBQ) can also be purchased readily – or you can bring them with you. Many advisers live in comfortable apartments (often with ‘million-dollar' sea views) while others prefer the convenience of hotel apartments or self-catering rooms. Many of the apartments have excellent views of the ocean and surrounding islands or views of the Owen Stanley Ranges. Being in the tropics, a standard feature in most accommodation is air conditioning, plus ceiling fans and mosquito mesh in each room.

What are the restaurants like in Port Moresby?

There are some excellent restaurants in Port Moresby, offering a range of cuisines. Thai, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian and Greek restaurants complete with those offering a more typically western menu. Seafood is plentiful and relatively cheap – seafood buffets of barramundi, prawns and lobster are common. Restaurant prices vary but compare favourably with Australia. Wines are a bit more expensive than in Australia with a restricted range available compared with Australia.

What are the schooling opportunities in Port Moresby?

There are pre-school and limited child-care facilities available in Port Moresby.

There are international schools in Port Moresby, catering for children up to Year 12 that is operated by the International Education Agency in Papua New Guinea. These schools have internationally trained teachers and are considered to be of good quality. Students are both expatriate and national PNG children. The junior school follows the local International Education Agency curriculum while the senior school offers ACT school leaving certificates (Grades 10 and 12), the PNG Higher School Certificate and an International Baccalaureate program.

What recreational activities are available?

There are many recreational activities available including tennis, squash, golf, sailing, snorkeling, running, aerobics and weight training (there are several gyms). In fact, you do not need to be very good at any of these sports to be able to join in – most clubs have social as well as competitive sessions.

There are many opportunities to enjoy water sports. There are active sailing groups (A Class, TISSY, Hobie 16s and Optimists) and fishing (marine and freshwater) clubs which provide training and access to boats and equipment if necessary. There are a number of PADI affiliated dive centres in the major coastal centres as well as an active scuba club in Port Moresby. The opportunities for weekend diving or snorkeling trips are world class.

There are excellent opportunities to experience the diversity and beauty of PNG, such as attending cultural shows, trekking (e.g. Walking the Kokoda Track), visiting villages, going on a wild-life expedition, traveling up the Sepik River, or staying in a wilderness lodge or a five-star resort.

How often are there flights to and from Australia?

There are daily international flights from Port Moresby to Australia via Cairns, Brisbane and Sydney. There are also weekly flights to and from Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Manila and Fiji. Airlines PNG have a code-sharing agreement with Virgin Blue (Pacific Blue) flying daily between Port Moresby, Cairns and Brisbane. This began in late 2008 and has been welcomed by the traveling public with reduced airfares and the choice of more frequent flights to and from Australia.

Can I take holidays in Papua New Guinea?

PNG is a beautiful country with a wonderful range of places to visit. All advisers are encouraged to make the most of their placements to enjoy the environmental and cultural diversity available, and most do. There are good quality hotels and facilities available at major tourist destinations and information is widely available on the best spots to visit. Domestic travel and accommodation is, however, relatively expensive.