Aust invests over K1bil in Morobe

By GLORIA BAUAI
AUSTRALIA is investing more than K1 billion in Morobe’s road and port infrastructure development, says Australia’s consul-general Mark Fox.
Fox said with the province’s role in PNG’s economic growth, investment in the sectors was crucial to drive the economy.
During a breakfast meeting with members of Lae’s business community last Friday, he said Australia was committed to delivering quality infrastructure to assist businesses in the province.
Fox said K56 million was given towards the long-term maintenance of the 111km Wau Highway, to reduce travel time and overheads for businesses in the district.
Also through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, A$300 million (about K690 million) was earmarked to support sections one and two of the trans-national highway.
“That’s from the Nine-mile junction, through to the Bulolo turnoff, and then on to Poiyu junction in Aseki,” he said.
“This is a key priority of the PNG government as part of the connect PNG strategy, and in time will connect Lae to Port Moresby.”
Fox said Australia was also picking up presence in PNG’s maritime sector, with a more visible presence in Morobe through the K470 million upgrade of the Lae Tidal Basin.
“This upgrade includes lengthening of the wharf, additional container yard space, enabling the port to handle more and larger vessels,” he said.
“As the port of Lae already handles over 60 percent of PNG’s international and coastal trade, this improvement will position Lae to become the trading shipment hub for the region.
“Our investments have a strong focus on quality, value for money and local content; and as part of the K1.5 billion contract signed between our countries earlier this year for infrastructure investment programme.”
PNG Ports is also seeking to establish an inland town to improve the effectiveness of supply chains linking the highlands to the ports in Lae and Madang.