An international gathering of political leaders, academics, business and community representatives is meeting at Deakin University in Geelong today and tomorrow to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing contemporary Papua New Guinea.

This two-day symposium, PNG: Securing a Prosperous Future, is being co-hosted by Deakin University’s Alfred Deakin Research Institute and Parliamentary Secretary for Pacific Island Affairs and Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Richard Marles.

Among the attendees are high-profile PNG political leaders including Minister for Public Service, Bart Philemon, and the Opposition Leader, Dame Carol Kidu.

Mr Marles said Australia was well aware of the fundamental changes occurring in Papua New Guinea.

"What is happening in PNG should resonate with Australians because, like us, our closest neighbour is experiencing a truly historic resources boom.

"PNG will make decisions now which will shape the sort of country that it will become in ten, twenty and fifty years time. PNG has been dealt a strong hand but now is the time to play the right cards."

PNG: Securing a Prosperous Future is being held at Deakin University’s Geelong Waterfront Campus, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong from 9am on 12 April and continuing at 9am on 13 April.

Media enquiries

• Parliamentary Secretary's Office: (02) 6277 4330
• Departmental Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555