The sacrifice by Australians in Papua New Guinea during World War II needs greater recognition

There have been some acts of indiscipline within both the defence and police forces in recent years. But what can you expect when morale is so low and neglect so evident?

Australia should commit to working with the PNG Government to re-build the PNG Defence Force, and do so in memory of the thousands of young Australians who served in the PNG theatre of the Second World War, and especially the thousands, often aged in their late teens and early twenties, who paid the supreme sacrifice.

It will address a real security problem in our closest neighbour, and provide a fitting lasting memorial to not only our soldiers who served in Papua New Guinea, but also the brave Papuans who served with them, and acted as carriers along the Kokoda Track and in other areas of combat.

Our closest neighbour needs a relatively small, but well resourced, disciplined and loyal defence force.

We have a unique opportunity to help deliver it!