The special relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea derives from PNG's former status as an Australian Territory until it achieved nationhood in 1975. Many Australians served in PNG as public servants, missionaries, entrepreneurs and in other roles—and many were born there. These close bonds with Papua New Guinea and its people remain to this day.
The Association
The PNGAA is a dynamic association for people with interests in contemporary and historical events in Papua New Guinea, supporting friendly and positive relationships between the people of PNG and Australia, and the preservation of historical material related to Papua New Guinea. Its journal, titled Una Voce, is published quarterly and has progressed from a brief news sheet to a highly-praised journal of over 60 pages. At the same time, the Association's membership has expanded into a global network of almost 1500 members.
Background
The PNGAA was originally established as the Retired Officers' Association (ROAPNG) in 1951 to safeguard the interests and retirement conditions of superannuated former Australian public servants who had worked in the then Territory of Papua and New Guinea. While the safeguarding of these interests remains an objective of the PNGAA, its scope is now much broader. Over the years, the Association's role has progressively changed to include activities such as supporting projects in PNG, working to strengthen the Australia-PNG relationship, and preserving historical materials related to PNG, as well as facilitating communication and interaction between members.