Monday 28th July, 2025
The PNG Department of Information and Communications Technology was invited to participate in the International Media Visit to Australia from the 27th of July to the 02nd of August, 2025, by the Government of Australia.
The weeklong trip is sponsored by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) through the PNG Australian High Commission in Port Moresby, and commences in Sydney then to Canberra and concludes in Brisbane.
Aiming to foster a greater understanding of Australia’s approach to addressing contemporary global challenges, the program focuses on Australia’s national security apparatus and its strategies for countering Misinformation and Disinformation.
The program also provides a platform to strengthen professional networks and explored shared priorities in ensuring informed resilient societies and will allow participants to gain firsthand insights into Australia’s commitment to regional stability and collaboration.
The participants will also have the opportunity to engage in insightful briefings and discussions with leading experts from think tanks, academics, businesses and various Australian Government departments and agencies.
Ms Michelle Jerewai, DICT’s Manager for Information Dissemination, was among the ten selected senior journalists and Government Communication Advisors and officers to be selected to participate in this program.
Ms. Jerewai’s division, under Information Delivery and Cyber Safety, is dedicated to combating misinformation and disinformation in Papua New Guinea by disseminating accurate government information through platforms like the National Information Center – info.gov.pg.
“There are a lot of information shared online which is often unverified or inaccurate. Yet, such content frequently attracts high engagement, leading many to perceive it as truth,” Ms Jerewai stated.
“In many cases, information is either misreported or misinterpreted—then shared without malicious intent. These instances typically fall under misinformation or so-called “fake news.” Conversely, some content is deliberately crafted to allow discord among individuals and communities; this is referred to as disinformation.”
Ms Jerewai said while being given the opportunity to be part of this significant week long program, she wants to understand the strategies used for Fact Checking and Countering misinformation and disinformation and to seek training opportunities for the Government Public Relation Officers and the Media and or if there are any opportunities for exchange programs.
The PNG Department of Information and Communications Technology appreciates the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the continued support in many sectors, particularly in the ICT Sector and Media landscape of Papua New Guinea.