Papua New Guinea

Crime levels are high and police response can be slow.

Violent crime

Crime is common in PNG, but particularly in Port Moresby, Lae and other urban centres, including:

• robbery
• assault
• sexual assault and gang rape
• bag snatching
• carjacking

Squatter settlements in towns and cities are dangerous.

'Bush knives' (machetes) and guns are often used in assaults and robberies.

The crime rate increases leading into the Christmas holiday period.

Most crime is opportunistic but foreigners have been targeted at home, at work or while travelling.

Robbery is a higher risk at:

• shopping centres
• hotels
• restaurants
• areas frequented by Westerners
• major urban areas, including Port Moresby and Lae

Most robberies involve guns.

Avoid walking in the streets, particularly after dark

Women in particular are at greater risk of sexual assault and theft.

More information:

• Advice for women

Road-based crimes

Carjacking is common.

High-risk areas in Port Moresby, Lae, and along the highway between Lae and Nadzab Airport, especially at night.

Criminals may use roadblocks outside of towns to stop and loot vehicles and attack you.

To stay safe on the roads:

• keep car doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• consider using a security escort or travel in convoy if you travel at night
• avoid travel by taxi or public transport, especially if you're a woman

See Travel

Tourist resorts

Civil disorder and criminal activity, including armed robbery, has happened at tourist resorts in Alotau and across Milne Bay.

In December 2018 and January 2019, police locked down Alotau several times because of civil disorder and criminal activity.

Trekking safely

In 2018 and 2019, there were several armed robberies of foreign day trekkers near Sogeri and Varirata National Park. There was also an attempted armed carjacking.

In 2019, foreign day trekkers were robbed near the Goldie River Crossing.

Consider using a security escort.

Find out more about trekking the Kokoda Track under Travel.

Personal security

Many organisations, including the Australian High Commission, use private security:

• to get a quick response to calls for help
• as security escorts

Australian officials always use heightened security measures.

Officials get security training and follow strict guidelines.Which may include limiting or avoiding travel in certain areas during periods of increased risk.

To improve your personal security:

• avoid high-risk areas and activities
• arrange appropriate security in public and private spaces
• consider using private security
• keep accommodation and vehicle doors and windows locked
• always be alert to your surroundings

Voting in the Bougainville referendum will take place from 23 November to 7 December, with a 2 week period for counting to follow. Avoid political gatherings before, during and after the referendum. If you are travelling to Bougainville, check your flight and accommodation bookings with your travel provider. 

Tension between tribal, communal or clan groups can increase without warning.

Fighting often involves guns. Rioting and looting can follow.

Outbreaks of violence have happened in squatter settlements and marketplaces of urban centres, including:

• Port Moresby
• Lae
• Bulolo
• Mt Hagen
• Mendi
• Porgera

If a clash happens, it may cause:

• destruction of property
• serious injury
• disruption to services, including transport
• an increase in opportunistic crime

In June 2018, civil unrest and violence happened in Mendi, Southern Highlands Province, after a court decision on a disputed election.

Rioters looted and burned an Air Niugini plane and several buildings.

Violent tribal clashes and random killings of locals have occurred in Tari and surrounding areas in Hela Province.

A State of Emergency has been invoked in Porgera Township, Enga Province. There's ongoing violence because of illegal mining at the Porgera gold mine. People have been killed and injured.

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations and protests
• monitor the media and local security reports
• consult airlines, accommodation or other local service providers
• check on security conditions and tensions before travelling to a new area
• avoid trouble spots
• follow the instructions of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Voting in the Bougainville referendum will take place from 23 November to 7 December, with a 2 week period for counting to follow. Avoid political gatherings before, during and after the referendum. If you are travelling to Bougainville, check your flight and accommodation bookings with your travel provider. 

In Bougainville, you're more at risk in Central Bougainville and Southern Bougainville because of:

• remote terrain
• former combatants with a lot of weapons
• sensitivities around mining, especially the old Panguna mine in Central Bougainville

To reduce your risks while you're in Bougainville:

• monitor local media
• check with local sources about the security situation before travelling
• be alert to your surroundings
• turn back if you're concerned for your safety
• take personal security precautions

PNG experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes
• tsunamis

To protect yourself during a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources, such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities and your employer
• keep in contact with friends and family
• contact your airline or travel agent for updates

If you're visiting after a natural disaster, contact your tour operator to check if services are affected.

Severe weather

Timing of the wet season varies across the country.

During the wet season, heavy rain can cause:

• flooding
• landslides
• damage to roads and infrastructure
• disruption to services
• injuries and deaths

Tropical storms can also happen in other months.

If you're arriving during the wet season, contact your tour operator to check if services are affected.

Volcanoes

Active volcanoes erupt regularly, particularly around:

• Rabaul
• Bougainville
• West New Britain
• Manam Island

The volcano at Mt Ulawan, West New Britain Province, erupted in June 2019 and further eruptions are likely. It displaced locals, disrupted services and resulted in the closure of Hoskins Airport for several days.

Manam Island volcano erupts frequently, including in 2018 and 2019. Local communities evacuated several times. Volcanoes that had been dormant also erupted, including the volcano on Kadovar Island.

Ash from volcanoes in the Rabaul region can disrupt airline schedules at Kokopo airport. Flights may be cancelled at short notice.

Get updates on ash clouds from the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

PNG can experience earthquakes and tsunamis. Tsunamis can happen after an earthquake in the region.

In 2018, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Southern Highlands and Hela Provinces. Over 100 people died. Flights and essential services were disrupted, including access to food and clean water.

Get updates on earthquakes via the US Geological Service.

To reduce your risk of harm during an earthquake:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• follow the advice of your accommodation provider
• monitor Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and local sources
• if you're in a coastal or low-lying area, move to higher ground

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in PNG. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Insect-borne diseases occur throughout PNG, including in Port Moresby.

Malaria is a risk in PNG and common throughout the year.

Zika virus and dengue also happen. 

Cases of chikungunya have been reported since 2012.

Japanese encephalitis is a low-risk for short-term visitors in urban areas.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to Zika virus-affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medication to prevent malaria and getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Poliovirus

In 2018 the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported cases of vaccine-derived poliovirus (type 1) in parts of PNG.

A national vaccination campaign is ongoing. Make sure you're vaccinated against polio.

More information:

• Department of Health: 2018 outbreak of polio in Papua New Guinea
• Papua New Guinea confirms poliovirus outbreak, launches response
• Vaccine derived poliovirus – Papua New Guinea

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is common.

Drug-resistant strains are present, including in Port Moresby. Cases of highly drug-resistant strains were reported in Port Moresby and Western Province.

People at greater risk include:

• children aged under 5 years
• those with medical conditions that affect their immune system

If you think you have tuberculosis, get urgent medical treatment.

HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases

The HIV/AIDS infection rate is high. Other sexually transmitted diseases are widespread.

Take precautions if you're doing anything that exposes you to risk of infection.

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• dysentery (shigellosis)
• typhoid
• hepatitis

Local water services can be polluted or turned off. Waterborne parasites occur in many rivers.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid bathing in fresh water sources

Seek medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Emergency health responses

The government may declare a national emergency if there's a health outbreak of diseases such as:

• cholera
• dysentery
• seasonal influenza

In an emergency, the government may make provisions, laws, orders or regulations to stop the spread of diseases. This can happen without notice.

In an emergency health response there could be:

• travel restrictions
• closed restaurants
• closed water sources

Animal bites and stings

Venomous snakes are common. Reports of snake bites increase during the wet season.

Jellyfish and other marine animal stings can be fatal.

Seek advice from local authorities, your tour operator or hotel about:

• seasonal conditions
• recommended precautions
• other potential dangers

Medical facilities

Health care facilities are poor, including in Port Moresby.

Large towns usually have enough facilities for routine problems and some emergencies.

Health facilities in rural areas, including along the Kokoda Track, are basic.

Ambulance services outside Port Moresby are limited.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll be evacuated to Australia. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

If you're diving, the only hyperbaric (decompression) chamber is in Port Moresby.

If you plan to dive in PNG:

• dive well within safety limits
• check your travel insurance covers it
• make sure you're covered for medical evacuation

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Other laws

The death penalty can apply for crimes including:

• treason
• piracy
• murder
• rape
• robbery

You may get a fine or jail sentence if you:

• possess or sell pornography or sex items
• commit adultery

War materials

It's illegal to remove surplus war material from PNG. This includes:

• guns
• bullets
• aircraft or vehicle parts
• other items used during WWII

More information:

• PNG Customs

LGBTI information

Sexual acts between people of the same sex are illegal. Prison sentences apply.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

PNG only recognises dual nationality in some situations.

PNG nationals can apply for dual citizenship with Australia.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

The traditional custom of 'payback' occurs.

You could face 'payback' if you:

• offend local custom
• engage in illegal or inappropriate sexual or financial relations
• damage someone's property (including livestock)

'Payback' can include violence or demands for money.

Dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Take care not to offend.

Ask permission before taking photos of:

• people
• cultural sites
• spirit houses

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can’t help you.

Visa conditions

You need a visa to enter PNG.

Australians can apply for tourist visas on arrival or through the PNG eVisa portal. There have been reports of fraudulent websites targeting foreign nationals applying for eVisas to PNG. If applying for an eVisa, use the official PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority website.  It's illegal to work in PNG on a tourist visa.

If you breach PNG immigration laws, you can be:

• fined
• jailed
• deported
• banned from re-entry

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact an embassy or consulate of Papua New Guinea for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Other formalities

You can't bring fruit or vegetables into PNG due to quarantine restrictions.

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The local currency is the PNG Kina (PGK).

Declare all amounts over PGK20,000 when you arrive or leave.

Exchange Australian dollars for PGK at local banks. 

Most hotels accept international credit cards.

ATMs are in Port Moresby and major urban centres but aren't always working. Only use ATMs in hotels and other secure locations due to the high risk of crime.

Ask your bank if your Australian cards will work in PNG.

Kokoda Track trekking

Walking the Kokoda Track is physically demanding. You must have a high level of fitness.

Weather conditions can be unpredictable.

Health risks include:

• dysentery
• dehydration
• poor local services
• delayed medical evacuation

Every year several Australians are medically evacuated. It's expensive. You or your travel insurance provider must cover the costs. Some people have died.

Adequate travel insurance is essential.

Serious crime and civil disorder happens throughout PNG, including:

• along the Black Cat Track in Morobe Province
• along the Kokoda Track
• at the ends of the Kokoda Track in Central and Oro Provinces

Consider using a security escort. See Safety

Unexploded weapons and remnants of war are found in PNG. Especially along the Kokoda Track, Milne Bay and Rabaul.

The condition and stability of these weapons is unknown. They can maim or kill you.

If you find a war remnant, don't disturb it.

Permits for the Kokoda Track

The PNG Government regulates trekking along the Kokoda Track. You need a permit before you trek.

If your trekking company is organising your permit, make sure you have the permit before you start trekking.

Make sure your trekking company has contingency plans if the track is blocked.

If you plan to trek the Kokoda Track:

• prepare with extensive training
• get medical advice and fitness testing before you commit to trekking
• make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activities and medical evacuation
• use guides from reputable trekking companies
• give your itinerary and trekking company contact details of family or friends in Australia

While on the Kokoda Track:

• stay hydrated
• protect yourself from dysentery (see Health)
• store your passport in a waterproof bag or container
• pay close attention to your personal security
• stay with your group
• don't touch or disturb anything that could be an unexploded war weapon, whether near the track or on display

More information:

• Tourism Promotion Authority
• Kokoda Track Authority

Telecommunications

Mobile phone global roaming services can be patchy.

Landline phones can have outages.

To stay in communication:

• check mobile coverage with your service provider
• make contingency plans for service outages
• consider carrying a satellite phone

Driving permit

You'll need both:

• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian driver's licence

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

After 1 month, you'll need a local licence.

Road travel

You're 3 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in PNG than in Australia.

Roads are poor, especially in rural areas.

Other hazards include:

• unpredictable and drunk drivers
• poorly maintained vehicles
• overcrowded vehicles

Large crowds can form quickly after road accidents. These crowds can become violent with no warning.

Flash floods and landslides can cause roads to close during the wet season. This can result in travel delays. The timing of the wet season varies across the country.

Parts of the Highlands Highway between Lae and Mount Hagen are particularly affected.

Police use roadblocks to check licences and vehicle registrations in Port Moresby.

If you plan to drive in PNG:

• know local traffic laws and practices before driving
• keep your car windows and doors locked
• avoid driving at night
• if you travel at night, consider using a security escort or travel in a convoy (see Safety)
• consider using a security escort along the Highlands Highway (including between Lae and Nadzab Airport)
• make sure your licence, vehicle registration and safety stickers are up-to-date to minimise problems at roadblocks

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Avoid travel by motorcycle.

Poor roads and high crime risks mean riding a motorbike in PNG is more dangerous than in Australia.

It's safer to travel in a locked vehicle.

Make sure your travel insurance covers riding a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Avoid taxis, especially if you're a woman.

Taxis are poorly maintained and often targeted by criminals.

Use vehicles hired from a reputable company, hotel or secure transport provider.

Public transport

Avoid public transport.

Also avoid privately owned minibuses, known as public motor vehicles (PMVs). They are poorly maintained and often targeted by criminals.

Use vehicles hired from a reputable company, hotel or secure transport provider.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Travel by ferry or small local boats can be dangerous. Modern boats may be overcrowded and lack basic safety equipment (especially for small children), these include:

• life jackets
• life rafts
• fire extinguishers

Several ferries have sunk in rough weather. Many people have died.

Boat services can be disrupted at short notice. Overcrowding of ferries and boats is common.

Consider flying to your destination instead.

There are limited marine search and rescue services in PNG.

To reduce your risk when travelling on the water:

• check with your tour operator/crew to determine safety standards and safety equipment provided is appropriate
• carry your own life jacket, an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and a satellite telephone
• avoid single-engine boats and travelling at night unless the vessel is appropriately equipped
• travel in convoy with all boats at half capacity or less
• tell your family or friends in Australia when you expect to leave and arrive
• Use another provider if appropriate safety equipment isn't available

Register EPIRBs and PLBs with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. In case of maritime accident, notify the PNG National Maritime Safety Authority on its 24-hour emergency number: +675 7351 7017.

International cruise lines stop over in PNG.

More information:

• Travelling by boat
• Cruises

Air travel

Flying in PNG can be dangerous because of:

• difficult terrain
• extreme weather
• poor conditions of some remote airfields

Since 2000, there have been more than 20 aircraft accidents:

• In December 2017, a North Coast Aviation Ltd aircraft crashed in mountainous terrain in Morobe Province, killing the Australian pilot.
• In April 2016, a Sunbird Aviation aircraft crashed in Kiunga, Western Province killing 12 people, including an Australian.

Flight delays and cancellations are frequent. Check your flight schedule with your airline.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check PNG's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 110.

Medical emergencies

Call 111 or go direct to the hospital.

Police

Call 112 or go to your local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby or the Australian the Consulate-General in Lae (if you are in Morobe province) to make an appointment. Note the Consulate-General in Lae can't issue emergency travel document.

Australian High Commission, Port Moresby

Godwit Road
Waigani NCD
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Phone: (+675) 7090 0100
Fax: (+675) 325 9239
Website: png.embassy.gov.au

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Lae

Nanbawan Supa Building
4th Floor, 2nd Street
Lae, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea
Phone: (+675) 7999 5300
Email: consulate-general.lae@dfat.gov.au
Website: png.embassy.gov.au/pmsb/Lae.html

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia