Papua New Guinea has taken a significant step toward modernizing its labour laws as representatives from the government, employers’ organizations, workers’ organizations, and key legal institutions agreed on the next phase of labour law and policy reforms through a tripartite social dialogue process.
The meeting of the Tripartite Labour Law and Policy Reform Working Group, held in Port Moresby on 19 June 2026, focused on strengthening the country’s labour governance framework and promoting decent work. During the meeting, participants finalized the group’s Terms of Reference, establishing a clear framework for collaboration among government agencies, employers, workers, and other stakeholders throughout the reform process.
The Working Group reviewed its priority reform agenda, which includes modernizing key provisions of the Employment Act, consulting on and validating the Workers’ Compensation Act, and implementing follow-up actions related to international labour standards on equal remuneration and non-discrimination in employment.
Legal experts from the Office of the State Solicitor provided guidance to ensure that proposed legislative amendments align with Papua New Guinea’s legal framework and international labour standards.
The discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of all stakeholders to strengthening labour governance through inclusive dialogue while addressing the country’s evolving labour market needs. The reforms are expected to improve worker protection, support sustainable enterprises, and contribute to long-term economic and social development.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) continues to support the reform process through its Improving Labour Governance in Papua New Guinea Programme, funded by the Government of Australia. The programme aims to enhance labour market governance by strengthening legal and policy frameworks, improving labour market information systems, and promoting effective social dialogue.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from government representatives, employers, workers’ organizations, and legal partners to continue advancing labour law reforms that promote decent work, inclusive labour markets, and sustainable economic growth across Papua New Guinea.
