30/08/2025
*PRESS RELEASE*
28th August 2025
*PNG AND QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY AGREE IN PRINCIPLE AHEAD OF STATE TO COUNTRY MOU*
Papua New Guinea has announced an agreement in principle between the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), paving the way for a State-to-Country Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will cement deeper cooperation in digital transformation, applied research, and higher education.
The partnership will support PNG’s national digital transformation agenda and establish a STEM-focused Incubation and Accelerator Hub – the “Digital Lighthouse” – to empower students, innovators, and entrepreneurs to commercialise ideas and build pathways for new industries.
Anchored in the PNG–Australia Partnership
The in-principle agreement aligns with the broader PNG–Australia Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership (CSEP), the Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA), and the Development Partnership Plan 2024–2029.
It also builds upon existing areas of collaboration such as the PNG–Australia Cyber Cooperation MoU, the Coral Sea Cable System, the PNG Electrification Partnership, Pawarim Komuniti, and the Australia Awards program. Together, these initiatives provide the foundation for connectivity, skills development, and innovation across Papua New Guinea.
Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jr., MP, said the agreement was a significant step toward positioning PNG as a regional leader in digital innovation.
“This agreement in principle with QUT sets the stage for a formal State-to-Country MoU. By combining PNG’s vision with QUT’s world-class expertise, we will co-design secure, people-centred, and inclusive digital solutions that will benefit all Papua New Guineans. The Lighthouse program will guide our transformation as a Pacific leader in innovation.”
Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Hon. Kinoka Feo, MP, emphasised the importance of connecting higher education to this agenda.
“Our universities, colleges, and students must be part of this transformation. The Lighthouse Hub will create pathways for students to apply STEM knowledge, connect with global expertise, and commercialise their innovations. This partnership will strengthen our higher education sector and prepare PNG’s workforce for the digital future.”
The Lighthouse Innovation & Incubation Hub concept, previously developed with PNG Unitech and the Pacific Adventist University, will now be expanded with QUT as a partner. It will:
• Establish a STEM-focused Incubation and Accelerator Hub.
• Provide commercial pathways for innovation through a government-linked investment arm.
• Pilot digital ID, cyber security, renewable energy, and rural connectivity solutions in innovation sandboxes.
• Deliver entrepreneurship and leadership training through joint programs with QUT, UNSW, UQ, and PNG universities.
• Apply Artificial Intelligence solutions to pressing national reforms, including:
• Enhancing National Procurement processes.
• Supporting HR appointments and merit-based recruitment.
• Securing and streamlining the Public Service Payroll system.
• Accelerating Police digitisation reforms to modernise law enforcement.
A Specialised Project Manager will be appointed to finalise the concept note and funding model. DICT is considering funding the first 3–6 months of this position under its Public Investment Program (PIP) to accelerate the proposal for Cabinet and donor partners.
From Agreement in Principle to MoU
Officials confirmed that the upcoming State-to-Country MoU between Papua New Guinea and Queensland will formalise this cooperation,
The Agreement will:
• Provide an overarching framework for implementation.
• Establish subsidiary arrangements in ICT, higher education, and innovation.
• Define timelines, reporting mechanisms, and resourcing.
• Form a High-Level Working Committee comprising QUT Professors, DICT officials, and DHERST representatives to oversee delivery.
• Enable accountability and long-term sustainability of the partnership.
A Pacific Digital Lighthouse
Both Ministers stressed that the Lighthouse is not just a project but a guiding vision for national development.
“The Lighthouse is about inspiring our young people, building stronger institutions, and ensuring PNG’s innovations serve both our people and the Pacific,” Minister Feo said.
With QUT’s expertise and Australia’s partnership, PNG is set to shine as a Lighthouse for digital innovation, guiding the region into a future where knowledge, technology, and opportunity are shared for the common good.
ENDS.