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Australia has concluded its election assistance program in Papua New Guinea.
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The Australian Defence Force has completed Operation Kimba 2022 — an operation supporting Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) 2022 national election.
The election assistance program — offered at the request of the government of PNG, and as part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) — involved advisory and capacity building assistance, voter awareness and material support, which included printing and delivery of ballot papers.
More than 130 personnel and three aircraft were deployed on Operation Kimba, providing specialist planning, logistics and air transport support to the election.
In total, over 110 tonnes of equipment and more than 1,100 PNG security personnel were transported to locations across the country.
Additionally, ADF personnel transported more than 12 million ballot papers and associated sensitive election material on behalf of the PNG Electoral Commission, and PNG Joint Security Task Force (JSTF) personnel.
The ADF’s contribution culminated with the return of PNG Defence Force personnel to their home units, supported by a Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Hercules aircraft.
The deployment formed part of Australia’s broader commitment to maintain a presence in the South West Pacific region.
The ADF is expected to continue working and training alongside PNGDF partners through the longstanding Defence Cooperation Program.
“The ADF’s support to the elections is a natural extension of Australia’s longstanding relationship with PNG," Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles said.
“Operation Kimba has provided significant resources and capability prior to, during and after the PNG national election.
“Australia’s relationship with PNG is based on our shared history and commitment to supporting the security and well-being of our Pacific family. We look forward to continuing to build on this relationship as we plan for future activities.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong said Australia is committed to supporting democracy in the Pacific.
“Australia’s electoral assistance was provided in response to PNG’s priorities,” she said.
“Our friendship with PNG is one of equals, based on mutual respect, understanding and trust.
“This is another example of the Albanese government’s commitment to building a stronger Pacific family.”
[Related: RAN, RAAF gear up for Exercise Kakadu]
