The Solomon Islands - a China outpost on our border

This is going to require careful negotiation with the Marape Government and the Autonomous Government of Bougainville.

One of the biggest challenges the PNG Government will face during the new term of the government and national parliament will be the future of Bougainville.

Prime Minister Marape believes, as did his predecessor Peter O'Neill, that Independence can be avoided, notwithstanding the overwhelming referendum that voted for independence less than two years ago.

Bougainville's elected leaders are committed to independence by 2026 - during the term of the new elected national parliament.

Australia needs to diplomatically play a role in the development of Bougainville without taking sides on the independence issue.

Apart from its strategic location on the border with the Solomon Islands it's well known that China interests have been looking at opportunities on Bougainville - including what would happen if independence occurs.

Fortunately China backed some losing candidates in the last provincial elections. That was a setback. It might not be repeated.

We enjoy good relations with Bougainville. That needs to be built on.

In the meantime the Solomon Islands is a China outpost in our immediate region. Our immediate capacity to change that is zero.

We need to move on - and focus where we can achieve results that are in the Australian National Interest.