Papua New Guinea's national government has been asked to consider allowing Australian police assistance in certain provinces.
PNG Prime Minister James Marape inspecting police as he arrives in Alotau for an official visit to Milne Bay province, 22 August 2020. Photo: PNG PM Media
The request was made in parliament by Enga Province's governor, Sir Peter Ipatas, in regard to worsening law and order situations in parts of PNG
Sir Peter said some provinces recognise they need Australian assistance to boost the capacity of their local police.
"For those of us provinces that want to engage with the Australian police, can we find a way so those provinces who want them to come and work can be given immunity and can work and improve our law and order situation. Simple as that," he said.
The prime minister James Marape said his government would look at the request
But he noted a 2005 court case which ruled that legal immunity provisions for Australian police under a proposed partnership programme were invalid.
"As to what is stopping us from moving into that space, I know that previously there was a court that stopped us from engaging police from Australia, or Queensland moreso," Marape said.
"But that can be revisited and I've made the commitment that that will be revisited."
