Papua New Guinea’s golden jubilee is marked by a series of high-level diplomatic visits and regional engagements, reflecting its growing influence in the Pacific and beyond.

UN Secretary-General’s Visit (2nd–5th September): António Guterres will make a historic first visit to PNG, engaging with Parliament and civil society on climate resilience, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. His presence underscores PNG’s role in global multilateralism and regional stability.

Pacific Island Leaders’ Visit (13th September): Ahead of Independence Day, regional heads of state will convene in Port Moresby to discuss shared priorities including climate action, digital transformation, and geopolitical coordination. This summit positions PNG as a convening power in the Pacific.

Royal Visit by His Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward (14th–17th September): His Highness Prince Edward, a member of the British Royal Family is expected to attend commemorative events, reinforcing Commonwealth ties and acknowledging PNG’s historical connection to the monarchy, dating back to the 1975 independence ceremony.

Indonesian President’s Visit (15th–16th September): President Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo will engage in bilateral talks focused on trade, border cooperation, and regional diplomacy. His visit reflects the strategic importance of PNG–Indonesia relations.

Australian Prime Minister and Deputy PM’s Visit (15th–16th September): Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Deputy PM Richard Marles will participate in anniversary events and defence cooperation initiatives, including the Lombrum Naval Base. Their presence highlights the depth of PNG–Australia ties and shared regional interests.

The categories for accreditation and access during the 50th Independence Anniversary events are organized as follows:

• VVIPs: This category includes Heads of Delegation, State Ministers, and Mandated Members of Government. These individuals receive the highest level of protocol, security, and venue access.
• VIPs: Comprising heads of public body agencies, CEOs within official delegations, and senior government officials, this group is granted elevated access and hospitality privileges.
• Officials: This includes government personnel directly involved in event execution, state protocol officers, and affiliated contractors coordinating logistics and programming.
• Official Security: Members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and other designated government enforcement units fall under this category, responsible for maintaining safety and operational integrity across all venues.
• Support: Agencies and organizations contributing to specific aspects of the celebrations—such as logistics, health services, cultural programming, and technical coordination—are classified under Support.
• Media: Accredited journalists, photographers, and content creators from national and international outlets. This category includes those covering live events, conducting interviews, and producing editorial features across platforms.
• Broadcasters: Dedicated media teams responsible for live transmission, satellite feeds, and official documentation of the celebrations. This includes national broadcasters and regional partners.
• Production: Technical crews managing staging, lighting, sound, video, and other behind-the-scenes elements essential to the execution of ceremonies and performances.

Media Coverage

Media Personal will be given access to the venues to cover the various high-level visits and events.

Media coverage for PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary will span a diverse array of venues, each contributing to the national narrative through ceremonial, cultural, and community-focused programming. At Jackson’s International Airport, both the Ceremonial Park and APEC Terminal will serve as high-profile entry points for dignitaries and international guests, with coverage valid from 12th to 18th September. These sites will host arrival ceremonies, cultural showcases, and diplomatic receptions, setting the tone for the week’s commemorations.

APEC Haus will continue its role as a central hub for regional dialogue and stakeholder engagement, hosting press conferences and forums that highlight PNG’s leadership in the Pacific. Meanwhile, the National Parliament, Government Haus, and National Court House will anchor the governance and legacy aspects of the celebrations. These venues will feature official speeches, flag-raising ceremonies, and judicial tributes, reinforcing the constitutional and institutional pillars of the nation.

Cultural resonance will be amplified at Melanesian Haus, where events will spotlight regional unity and traditional diplomacy. Public spectacle and mass participation will be centered at venues such as Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium—home to the PNG50 Spectacular—and Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, which will host the closing flag-lowering ceremony. Ela Beach and Murray Barracks will offer vibrant public celebrations, including fireworks, family activities, and Defence Force parades, while the National Football Stadium will host youth-focused expos and concerts.

Academic and faith-based programming will be supported by UPNG Campus in Waigani and the PAU Festival Campus at 14 Mile, with student-led forums, educational tributes, and spiritual gatherings contributing to the broader societal reflection. Community engagement will be further enriched at Unagi Oval and the Yacht Club, which will host grassroots sing-sings, traditional sports, and maritime heritage events.

Throughout the week, national broadcasters such as NBC, TVWAN and EMTV, alongside regional partners like ABC Pacific and Radio Australia, will provide comprehensive coverage. This includes live broadcasts, daily venue spotlights, and special features such as Wan Kantri: The Next 50 Years, ensuring that the celebrations reach audiences across PNG and the Pacific diaspora.

See Media Coverage Plan

Please note: Venue management, the National Events and PNG 50th Committee, and designated security personnel reserve the right to remove any unauthorized individuals from event venues. This measure ensures the safety, integrity, and smooth operation of all official proceedings.