Pangu Highway Push: PM James Marape completed a 1,300km road trip to Mt Hagen on the newly opened Pangu Highway, saying infrastructure is the way to unite PNG ahead of Independence Day on Sept 16. Election Readiness: Police and PNGDF told a parliamentary elections committee they’re still waiting on election-preparation funding, warning they can’t legally spend money until released. Safer Cities: Port Moresby’s police chief says the capital can be made more liveable and safe, with a shift toward proactive community policing and neighbourhood programmes. Violence Response: Australia’s inaugural Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner Micaela Cronin has joined the board of Femili PNG, supporting crisis accommodation and survivor services in Lae, Goroka and Port Moresby. Prison Security Warning: Fiji’s justice minister says prisons across the Pacific could be exploited by organised crime networks unless safeguards are strengthened. PNG Chiefs Tourism & Sport: PNG Chiefs’ NRL entry keeps building momentum, with BSP named principal foundation partner in a record sponsorship deal, while Air Niugini marks Independence with 51 free return airfare giveaways. Travel Safety Alert: A crocodile caretaker died after a fatal attack at Adventure Park in Port Moresby, reigniting calls for stricter wildlife handling safety. Air Access for PNG: Air Niugini is set to resume nonstop Auckland–Port Moresby services from Nov 17, 2026, boosting direct travel links.