Australia Awards Papua New Guinea (AAPNG) are designed to promote knowledge and leadership, and enduring ties between Australia and PNG. The scholarships aim to build a qualified workforce, fill critical human resource gaps, and support good leadership.

Every year, both the Governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea agree on priority sectors that will target key development areas. Applicants are assessed on their professional and personal qualities, academic competence and, most importantly, their potential to impact on development challenges in PNG.

All recipients of the 2025 Australia Awards PNG scholarships have been given the honorary title of ‘Australia Awards Somare-Whitlam Scholars’, in honour of Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence. 

The name recognises the contributions made by the former Prime Minister Great Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, in creating the foundation for the PNG and Australia that we know today, and our contemporary relationship.

The co-badged scholarships were initially announced by Prime Minister Marape and Prime Minister Albanese in their joint Leaders Declaration in February 2024, during Prime Minister Marape’s visit to Australia. The announcement came alongside a reaffirmed commitment to working together for climate resilience, infrastructure development and regional peace, reflecting the important contribution made by Australia Awards to PNG’s future and the relationship with Australia.