Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Krissy Barrett has signed a landmark policing agreement in Papua New Guinea (PNG) aimed at bolstering regional security and enhancing the safety of both nations.
Commissioner Barrett will formalise the joint agency agreement with Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Commissioner David Manning to improve information sharing, investigative support, and operational collaboration between the two forces.
The new accord deepens an existing memorandum of understanding between the AFP and RPNGC, focusing on multijurisdictional investigations targeting organised crime networks operating across PNG and Australia.
“This agreement is focused on multijurisdictional investigations involving organised crime networks affecting PNG and Australia.”
Commissioner Barrett said, “It will streamline information exchange and the sharing of police resources and technology, enabling us to disrupt threats earlier. Commissioner Manning’s leadership is well-renowned in the Pacific, and his trusted advice on combatting common threats is valued.”
“To keep Australia and PNG safe, we need to keep our region safe — and our great policing partners in the Pacific show what an important bloc of partners they are.”
During her first international visit as AFP Commissioner, Barrett will also hold bilateral talks with Fiji Police Force Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, recognising Fiji’s growing role in strengthening Pacific regional security.
Barrett will attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Bomana Police College’s Regional Centre of Excellence in Port Moresby to mark the start of major upgrade works. The redeveloped college, set for completion by early 2027, will include new classrooms, multipurpose training facilities, and gender-inclusive cadet barracks to support both PNG and regional police training needs.
To cap off her visit, Commissioner Barrett will attend the NRL Pacific Championships match between PNG and Fiji, highlighting the spirit of unity and partnership across the Pacific.
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