The Coalition will give greater emphasis to initiatives such as the Enterprise Challenge Fund that stimulates growth and employment opportunities, and helps sustain local communities.
We will also redouble our efforts to negotiate the Pacific Agreement for Closer Economy Relations, otherwise known as PACER PLUS.
This agreement presents a significant opportunity for us to cement a closer economic relationship that will promote economic growth, open up markets, provide employment and raise standards of living.
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I have also repeatedly called for greater priority to be given to two-way student exchange.
Our Party has a proud record in this area, having established the Colombo Plan in 1951 under the leadership of Sir Robert Menzies.
A new program that captures the spirit of the Colombo Plan is again needed. Increasing the number of two-way student exchanges in our region and particularly between Australia and Papua New Guinea will help promote greater understanding and awareness.
This should be extended to include academic exchanges between Australia's leading education institutions and those in PNG, such as the University of Papua New Guinea.
At a government level, we will support public sector twinning opportunities to help ensure the transfer of knowledge and skills that are needed in areas such as service delivery, policy formation and public service management.
The Coalition will look at supporting placement opportunities for select Papua New Guineans in all levels of government in Australia.
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In assisting PNG to strengthen its institutional capacity, Australia will be helping create the conditions that are necessary for sustainable economic growth and job creation.
More than perhaps with any other nation, the potential for sport diplomacy between Australia and Papua New Guinea is immense.
On my trip to Papua New Guinea last year, I was struck by the influence of Queensland's rugby league stars – from young boys throughout the Southern Highlands wearing maroon jerseys to the extensive coverage in local newspapers.
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