50 Years of Papua New Guinea Independence: What It Means to Me in Australia

This year marks 50 years of independence for Papua New Guinea. Half a century. That number carries a different kind of weight—one that lands somewhere between pride, reflection, and a deep sense of connection to a place I’ve never lived, but have always carried with me.

I was born and raised in Australia, but my family’s roots stretch across the sea to Tatana Village—a small but strong community just outside Port Moresby. I’ve never called PNG home in the literal sense, but I’ve always felt it in my bones. Through stories, family, food, language, and values, PNG has shaped who I am just as much as the ground I walk on here.

There’s something powerful about reaching 50 years as an independent nation. For many of us living in the diaspora, especially here in Australia, this anniversary is a moment to pause and remember where we come from. It’s a reminder that our culture has not only survived colonisation and modernisation—it’s still thriving. It’s in our music, our laughter, our family gatherings. It’s in our resilience.

But being a Papua New Guinean in Australia isn’t always easy. We’re a small community, often overlooked, sometimes misunderstood. Yet we continue to show up, build community, and pass on our culture. We celebrate our identity not just on Independence Day, but in the way we show up for each other, the way we raise our kids, and the way we continue to speak truth to power.

As part of marking this milestone, I wanted to do something special through my organisation, Cultural Nexus Indigenous Corporation. We’ve created a limited-edition range of Papua New Guinean merchandise—totes, hats, and shoes that reflect the bold, vibrant identity of our people.

This isn’t just merch for the sake of it. It’s a way for us to wear our culture with pride, whether we’re heading to work, the gym, or a community gathering. It’s for those of us who miss the islands, who hold our heritage close even when we’re far away. It’s a way to say: we see you, we honour you, and we celebrate this moment together.

As we commemorate 50 years of independence, my hope is that we continue to build spaces where Papua New Guinean voices are heard, respected, and empowered—both here in Australia and back home. Our stories matter. Our culture matters. And our future is strong.

To my PNG community in Australia: this moment belongs to you too. Celebrate it in whatever way feels right. Tell your stories. Share a meal. Teach the next generation. And most importantly—keep showing up as your full self.

Happy 50th Independence Anniversary, Papua New Guinea.

Stand proud.