Papua New Guinea Attorney General Slams Senator Hanson’s NRL Funding Critique

​Papua New Guinea’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Pila Niningi

​Papua New Guinea’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Pila Niningi, has strongly rebuked Australian Senator Pauline Hanson for her derogatory remarks about Papua New Guinea. Hanson's comments came in response to Australia’s allocation of AUD 600 million from its budget to support a new NRL team in PNG.

In her address to the Australian Federal Senate, Senator Hanson criticized the hefty financial commitment, arguing that it burdens Australian taxpayers. She also pointed out the nearly AUD 500 million in annual foreign aid provided to PNG.

Attorney General Niningi responded by urging Hanson to reconsider her statements, stating, “It appears she does not fully understand the importance of rugby league or sports more broadly.” Niningi emphasized that the NRL plays a crucial role in strengthening the relationship between Australia and PNG, describing it as a vital part of their bilateral ties.

Niningi also challenged Hanson’s portrayal of PNG as a corrupt nation. “As Attorney General, I am not corrupt. Corruption by a few does not imply that everyone is corrupt,” he said. “We greatly respect Australia and appreciate its support. Our relationship with Australia is strong and will remain so.”

Hanson’s critique included a reminder of Australia’s significant financial aid to PNG, including AUD 2.56 billion in budget support loans since 2020. She questioned the necessity of a PNG-based NRL team, particularly given the cost-of-living issues in Australia.

“Our supporters question the need for a PNG-based NRL team. Australians struggling with rising living costs under Labor's policies have valid concerns about this AUD 600 million allocation,” Hanson said. She suggested that the funds could be better invested in healthcare services in regional Queensland.

Hanson also called for a review of Australia’s aid to PNG, especially as PNG nears its 50th Independence anniversary next year. She argued that PNG might be ready to stand independently, without Australian aid, and expressed concerns about PNG's governance and its susceptibility to external influences.

“We must prioritize addressing Australians' urgent needs over funding a foreign sports team,” Hanson concluded.

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