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Monash expert: 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea Independence

Monash University

Tuesday 16 September will mark the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence from Australia in 1975. A Monash expert is available to discuss the nature of Australia’s colonial rule before 1975 as well as the post-colonial relationship Papua New Guinea has with Australia. 

Available to comment:

Dr Nicholas Ferns, ARC DECRA Fellow, School of Philosophical, Historical and  International Studies

Contact: +61 416 028 594 or [email protected]

Read more about Dr Ferns’ commentary at Monash Lens

The following can be attributed to Dr Ferns:

“The 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea's independence offers an opportunity to reflect on the degree to which the country has achieved the ambitious aims outlined by its earliest leaders in 1975. For many, including current leaders, there is still work to be done in realising the country's potential.

"The end of Australian rule in Papua New Guinea did not spell the end of Australian influence over the country. The country continues to depend on Australian foreign aid, and security ties remain very close.

"Despite the many challenges faced by Papua New Guinea since 1975 – secessionist movements, tribal conflict, endemic corruption – it has managed to persist as a parliamentary democracy."

For more experts, news, opinion and analysis, visit Monash News.

For any other topics on which you may be seeking expert comment, contact the Monash University Media Unit on +61 3 9903 4840 or [email protected]