The 2024 Australia-Papua New Guinea Emerging Leaders Dialogue took place earlier this month in Australia, showcasing the power of youth in driving future partnerships between the two countries. Organised by the Lowy Institute’s Australia-PNG Network, this weeklong event brought together promising young leaders from both nations to explore how their collaboration can strengthen long-term ties.
The dialogue, which focused on building people-to-people connections, offered participants a chance to engage in facilitated roundtable discussions, share professional expertise, and exchange personal perspectives. The programme also included site visits, networking opportunities, and in-depth dialogues with academics, policymakers, and industry experts.
Dr Jessica Collins, Program Director of the Australia-PNG Network, highlighted the importance of this initiative in fostering deeper connections and influencing policy in both countries.
“The event brings together outstanding emerging leaders from both Papua New Guinea and Australia to build and deepen connections and understanding,” said Dr Collins. “The open, wide-ranging format of the Dialogue is also an opportunity for participants to engage with their peers and generate ideas that can influence the leaders of both countries.”
Australia Pacific Islands Business Council member company Pacific Islands International’s Luke Jackson represented his company and the Business Council at the event.
The Australia-PNG Emerging Leaders Dialogue, first launched in 2013 by the Lowy Institute with the backing of both nations’ foreign ministers, was created to provide a platform for young leaders to share insights with policymakers. The success of that inaugural event led to the creation of the Aus-PNG Network, which now hosts the Dialogue and other year-round activities aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
Since its inception, over 120 participants have contributed to the success of the Dialogue, creating a vital network that bridges business, government, and community in both countries.
This year’s participants will compile an Outcomes Report, which will be presented to both the Australian and Papua New Guinean governments, offering key recommendations for shaping future policies.
For more information, visit the Australia-PNG Network’s website at the Lowy Institute.
