Origins and Early Years (1953–1975)
The origins of the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) date back to 1953, during Papua New Guinea’s post-war reconstruction under Australian administration. This period laid the groundwork for the country’s transport and infrastructure systems, establishing the Commonwealth Department of Works (Comworks) as the central agency for planning, building, and maintaining essential infrastructure.
- 1953: Operating from Konedobu in the National Capital District (NCD), Comworks was tasked with post-war recovery, focusing on restoring transport networks, government facilities, and public buildings. These efforts helped Papua New Guinea prepare for its eventual transition to self-governance.
- 1969: Papua New Guinea hosted the Second South Pacific Games, marking a significant milestone in the country’s development. This event catalyzed the construction of the Games Village at 4-Mile (Blocks A, B, C, and D). Following the games, the Department relocated from its original headquarters in Konedobu to its current location, spanning from Murray Barracks to 4-Mile, enabling greater capacity for operations and administration.
- 1973: The transition to self-government marked a transformative era for Papua New Guinea. As the nation prepared for independence, the Department of Works emerged as one of the first public institutions, playing a critical role in building the infrastructure necessary for a modern state. Key milestones during this period included:
- The passage of the Road Maintenance Act and the Building Act, formalizing the legislative framework for national infrastructure development.
- The introduction of the first Roads and Bridges Specification and the Building Code, which standardized engineering practices and construction standards across the country.
- The consolidation of operations with the relocation of the Design Office from Lae to Port Moresby, centralizing planning and design activities to support national priorities.
- 1975: Papua New Guinea’s independence saw the Department emerge as a foundational pillar of the new government, maintaining its focus on roads, bridges, and public building projects. This period highlighted the Department’s pivotal role in ensuring connectivity and supporting the nation’s fledgling economy.
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Our Structure
Staffing Overview
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Corporate Services Wing
Achievements and Impact of the DoWH
Future Outlook of DoWH
Vision and Mission
Core Objectives
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Why the Corporate Services Wing Matters
Looking Ahead
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Network Planning, Design, and Standards (NPDS) Wing
Vision and Mission
Core Responsibilities
Key Divisions and Branches
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Future Goals
Why NPDS Wing Matters
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Highways Management Wing
Vision and Mission
Core Responsibilities
Key Divisions and Functions
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Why Highways Management Matters
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Field Operations Wing
Vision and Mission
Key Functions and Responsibilities
Strategic Objectives and Major Programs
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Key Programs Driving the Vision of the DoWH
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