Technical Audit Division Established to Strengthen Road Infrastructure Oversight

PORT MORESBY: The Department of Works and Highways has established a new Technical Audit Division aimed at strengthening compliance, governance and accountability in the delivery of road infrastructure projects across Papua New Guinea.

The Division will be responsible for ensuring road projects are delivered in line with approved designs, technical specifications, departmental policies and relevant regulations. Its work will also support quality assurance and promote the responsible use of public funds throughout the project cycle.

The establishment of the Division follows the launch of the Department’s Technical Audit Policy in 2024, alongside other key planning documents intended to improve road safety, accessibility, sustainability, accountability and transparency in infrastructure development.

First Assistant Secretary Sylvester Pai said the Technical Audit Division would help the Department deliver safe and trafficable roads by ensuring that planning, engineering, procurement and construction activities are carried out according to required standards and best practice.

“Our focus is to support the Department in strengthening compliance and improving project outcomes,” Mr Pai said. “Technical audits will help ensure that road infrastructure is delivered to standard, that public funds are used responsibly, and that stakeholders can have confidence in the process.”

The Division is currently supported by a small team of four officers, who are laying the groundwork for a stronger audit and compliance system within the Department. Its work is expected to progressively extend to provinces and districts as the Department strengthens oversight of road and bridge projects nationwide.