Defence Minister Robert Hill will attend the annual Australia – Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum on Friday (November 15) in Port Moresby and will meet with his Papua New Guinea counterpart, Defence Minister Kappa Yarka for talks on defence and security issues.

The two ministers will discuss the bilateral Defence Cooperation Program which covers a range of activities including training, combined exercises, facilities development and high level talks.

"This is the first Ministerial Forum since the election of a new PNG government in June this year," Senator Hill said. "It is an opportunity to engage our counterparts on a range of issues of mutual interest and importance, and underlines Australia’s commitment to supporting the efforts of countries in the Pacific region to meet their many challenges."

"A stable and secure Papua New Guinea is important to Australia. From a Defence perspective this visit is an opportunity to reinforce the importance the Australian Government places on reform and downsizing of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. The PNGDF has been through a difficult period and must overcome a number of critical challenges to rebuild morale and restore confidence in its members."

"Australia has contributed $20 million to supporting reform within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. This focuses on reducing force numbers, setting realistic objectives and establishing effective personnel, financial and logistic systems."

"While a start has been made, completing the reform process will require strong leadership and resolve."

Senator Hill said Australia had also completed the construction of three modern armouries for the defence force in Port Moresby as part of the Defence Cooperation Program. This is a practical example of Australia’s contribution to security in Papua New Guinea.

Senator Hill is part of an Australian delegation that also comprises Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, Finance and Administration Minister Nick Minchin, Immigration Minister Philip Ruddock, Justice & Customs Minister Chris Ellison, and Environment and Heritage Minister David Kemp.