PNG is predominantly a Christian country and follows similar key public holidays as most Christian countries. In particular, Christmas, New Year and Easter are held on the same dates as other Western countries and are considered some of the main public holidays in Papua New Guinea.PNG Public holidays in 2023 are as follows:Sunday 1st January New Years DayFriday 7th April Good FridaySaturday 8th April Holy SaturdaySunday 9th April Easter SundayMonday 10th April Easter MondayMonday 12th June Monarch's Official BirthdaySunday 23rd July National Remembrance DaySaturday 26th August National Repentance DaySaturday 16th September Independence DayMonday 25th December Christmas DayTuesday 26th December Boxing DayWednesday 27th December Christmas Day (in lieu)

Tourism in PNG attracts an increasing number of visitors annually, who visit the diverse landscape and culture that Papua New Guinea has to offer. From wildlife, nature hikes, and some spectacular diving, there is a range of excellent tourist destinations in PNG including Port Moresby, and provincial destinations.Within Port MoresbyPort Moresby Nature ParkThe Port Moresby Nature Park is home to some of PNGs most popular wildlife, many of which are endangered species and unique to PNG. These include the Tenkile Tree Kangaroo and PNG’s national bird, the Raggiana Bird of Paradise.Formerly the Port Moresby Botanical Gardens, the park is also home to a variety of PNGs unique flora, spread over 30 hectares. It is a popular recreational destination for families and is in high demand for special events such as weddings. Amenities include ‘hauswins’ (garden houses), barbecue facilities, and a café. Adventure Park - Port MoresbyThe Adventure Park has similar amenities and attractions to Nature Park. Spread across well-kept grounds and gardens, the Adventure Park is home to domesticated farm animals, Victoria Crowned pigeons, tree kangaroos, wallabies, a saltwater crocodile, Birds of Paradise, and a collection of other animals. Adventure Park is a 20-minute drive from Port Moresby on Sogeri Road. Within Driving distance of Port MoresbyBeaches near Port MoresbyAll along the PNG Central Province coastline, there are some beautiful beaches to visit.There are various popular beach spots on Magi Highway and Napa Napa Road, not more than an hour’s drive in both directions. These often have a small resort or clubhouse attached nearby. There is also Taurama Bay with numerous beaches and some good surfing options.Other excellent beaches to look out for include March Girls Resort with its black sandy beach, Konebada Resort (which offers island fishing trips), Sunset Lodge, Boera, and Tutu Beach Resort.An island charter to beautiful islands, such as Fisherman’s Island, just off the coast of Port Moresby is also possible via the PNG Game Fishing Club’s 70-foot passenger boat. Bookings are made with the Yacht Club.Walking / Hiking in PNGThe best hiking in PNG is no doubt in the hinterlands of Sogeri, less than an hour from Port Moresby.The Sogeri Plateau has some of the most beautiful scenery which can be enjoyed from several picnic spots. This is also the Central Province end of the famous Kokoda Trail, used by allied troops during WWII, and is PNGs most popular hiking tourist attraction.Some small Port Moresby-based groups organise weekend hikes over the provincial border into the Oro Province, or offer shorter walks within Sogeri. Motels at Sogeri also offer hiking and camping trips.If you are interested in hiking around the mountains of Sogeri that are private tour guides and groups that travel up together during specific weekendSogeri Hikers & Adventures Variarata National ParkPort Moresby’s only national park is Variarata, located in Sogeri. Visitors can take bush walks, engage in bird watching and encounter local wildlife. Numerous look-outs offer breathtaking views of the Central Province and Port Moresby, while picnic facilities provide a great option for a family day outing.Loloata IslandThis luxury cashless island resort is one of the highest-ranking in Oceania, with high-class dining and accommodation.Located 45 minutes by car from Port Moresby on the Magi Highway, visitors leave their vehicles at Tahira and board a ferry to Loloata Island. The area is also a marine reserve with mangrove sanctuaries and offers 29 dive sites at the edge of the Papuan Barrier Reef. Provincial Destinations in PNGTawali ResortMilne Bay has some of the best diving and beaches in Papua New Guinea, and Tawali Resort is undoubtedly an excellent location to enjoy these. Located at the southeastern most tip of Papua New Guinea’s mainland, and 90 minutes out of Alotau Town, the resort offers fishing, hiking, land and island tours showcasing the province’s culture and warfare history. TufiAnother top diving destination, Tufi’s location and setting provide for great diving all year round.Situated within tropical fjords, surrounded by rainforest-covered mountains and panoramic ocean views, Tufi offers a unique blend of the best landscapes and scenery in PNG.

Gyms in PNG are provided by many apartment blocks but there are also several well-equipped gyms in the capital city with several excellent private gym memberships available.Image Source: stanleyhotelRoyal Papua Yacht ClubWebsite: www.rpyc.com.pg/gym/ Operating Hours: Monday to Friday - 5am and 9pm, Weekends - 6am to 6pm.Fees: K300 per annum, open to RPYC members only. The RPYC gymnasium is one of the most exclusive in the country, offering various cardiovascular equipment, machine weights and free weights, and a range of classes and personal training sessions.Classes include pilates, kickboxing, powerfit, belly dancing, zumba, rip 60, circuit training and yoga.Aviat ClubWebsite: www.aviat.com.pg Operating Hours: Daily 5:30am - 8pmFees: K750 annually, open to Aviat members onlyThe Aviat Club gymnasium is a well-equipped, members-only gym. As well as offering a wide variety of fitness apparatus, it also has squash courts, tennis courts, and a boxing area with a punching bag. Personal trainers are available on request, but there are currently no classes available during the COVID-19 measures.Life GymOperating Hours: Monday to Saturday 5am - 9pm, Sunday 7am to 7pm.Fees: K1,586 per annum on a pro rata basis, and walk-in K40 per dayLife Gym is centrally located at the Holiday Inn, Waigani, and is open to both members and non-members. It has various fitness equipment, including weights, treadmills and rowing machines, and offers a range of classes from full-body workouts to yoga classes.Image Source: www.facebook.com/lifegymnasiumLaguna HotelOperating Hours: Daily 5am to 9pmFees: 2,500 per annum or K310 per month. Walk-in rate K50 per day.The gym at the Laguna Hotel is modern, spacious and well equipped. Personal trainers are on hand, and yoga classes run every Tuesday.Stanley Hotel Operating Hours: Daily 5am - 10pmFees: K3,300 annually, K1,750 for 6 months and K950 for 3 months. Part-time options are available for use between 9am and 3pm.Located on the 5th floor of the Stanley Hotel adjacent to the pool, the Fitness Centre offers a full range of aerobic machines, free weights and cable weights. Members also have access to the outside pool. There are no walk-in options and currently no classes available due to COVID-19.Airways Health and Fitness CentreOperating Hours: Daily 5:30am - 10pm. Fees: K3,500 per annum, or K500 per month. Free access to the gym is available for hotel guests.Airways Health and Fitness Centre is one of Port Moresby’s most modern and exclusive fitness facilities with a fully equipped gym, squash courts, tennis court, infinity lap pool, sauna, and steam rooms.Personal trainers are available during the day, and there are several classes, such as boxing, circuit training and mixed fitness included in the membership fees.

Social and sporting clubs are a long-standing tradition in PNG. Clubs offer a chance for Papua New Guinea residents to meet, socialise and enjoy shared passions; from squash, golf, snooker, tennis, yachting, and just enjoying a drink with friends, PNG’s clubs offer something for everyone.Aviat Sporting And Social ClubWebsite: www.aviat.com.pg How to Apply for Membership: Email [email protected] for the latest application form.Membership Costs (2021 year): Individual: K1,900 per annum, plus K750 nomination feeFamily: K3,290 per annum, plus K1,300 nomination feeNote that Aviat will invoice on a pro-rata basis for the remaining months of the year.Opening Hours: 10am to midnight DailyEstablished in 1948, the Aviat Sporting and Social  Club is a family-friendly club catering to sports lovers and those seeking a relaxed time socialising in friendly surroundings. The club is extremely welcoming of families and provides a fantastic pool, kids playground, and regular events for kids - such as movie nights. The club hosts a range of additional member events, including wine tasting, trivia nights, Christmas in July, snooker competitions, Sunday afternoon BBQ, and Friday night football on the big screen.Member facilities include:Swimming Pool2 Squash Courts2 Tennis Courts2 Snooker TablesBar (air-conditioned)RestaurantPoker machinesGarden barRoyal Papua Yacht ClubWebsite: www.rpyc.com.pg How to Apply for Membership: Download the membership form from the RPYC website. All applications require a nominator and a seconder who are existing financial (voting) members.Membership Costs (2023 year): Various forms of membership are available:Single: K3,680 including initial nomination fee)Family: K4,790 including initial nomination fee)Cadet: K190Gymnasium: K500Opening Hours: 8am to 11pm DailyThe Royal Papua Yacht Club (RPYC), established in 1921, is located in Konedobu, a few minutes from the Port Moresby CBD. The club’s key feature is a 256 berth marina which can accommodate boats up to 30 meters in length. RPYC also has various intra-clubs to suit water enthusiasts, including game fishing, junior sailing and water skiing.The RPYC is not just for boating; the club is a central meeting spot for tight-knit international residents. Members enjoy a range of amenities, including a bar, popular restaurant (MacDhui), beer garden, Sails Café, Children’s Splash Park, a well-equipped gym, and even onsite laundry facilities for those living on their boat! The venue is also popular for private and corporate events, with a maximum capacity for over 400 guests and a stunning view over the marina. There is a wide range of activities to engage members, including kids discos, pool competitions, arts and craft markets, and social events. Royal Port Moresby Golf ClubWebsite: www.royalportmoresby.comHow to Apply for Membership: Download the membership form from the RPMCG website. All applications require a proposer and a seconder who are existing financial (voting) members.Membership Costs (Accurate for 2023): CategoryEntrance FeeAnnual SubscriptionHalf YearFull PlayingK2,000K4,158K2,079FamilyK2,000K5,950K2,975MidweekK2,000K3,124K1,562Lifestylek1,0001,800N/AInternationalk500K1,280N/ASocialK400K600N/AIntermediate 18 - 23k250K750N/AJunior 6 to 18K130K310N/AOperating Hours: Golf Course: Weekdays 8am to 5pm, Weekends 6am to 5pm. Club: Weekdays 8am to 10pm, Weekends 6am to 11pm. Driving Range: 8am to 9pm, 7 days a week.The Royal Port Moresby Golf Club (RPMCG) has been in existence since 1930 and hosts the Papua New Guinea Open. The club boasts an 18 hole championship golf course, eight-bay covered driving range with solar lighting until 9pm, and a short-game practise facility with a putting green and chipping greens. For keen golfers living in Port Moresby, the RPMGC is a golfer's dream. The world-class championship course is located just 15 minutes from the Port Moresby CBD and provides enough challenges for seasoned professionals while it is also welcoming for beginners. The course has an abundance of water traps, and in keeping with the ‘land of the unexpected’, golfers must not get too close as crocodiles reside in these pools! The club offers a range of competitions, from corporate sponsored events, club and national championships, and club pennant competitions.After a round of golf, members and guests may use the changing and locker rooms and then head to the Hideout Café for a cold beer, food and pokies (slot machines) room. There is also a range of social events for members to enjoy.  Other Sports Clubs in PNGPort Moresby has several other clubs to satisfy the hobbies and leisure activities of residents. These include: Port Moresby Gun Club: www.facebook.com/pomgunclub/South Pacific Motor Sports Club (otherwise known as the “Car Club”: www.spmsc.org.pg/Port Moresby Game Fishing Club: www.facebook.com/PMGFC/Port Moresby Racquet Club:(20+) Port Moresby Racquets Club | FacebookHow to apply for membership: Either email - [email protected] or visit the venue along Bava Street, next to Pom Grammar School and get a copy of the membership form at the clubhouse. Membership Fees: Non-member court fees - K40.00CategoryDescriptionFull YearHalf YearExclusive FamilyFamily including kids up to 18 years (exclu court light fees)K2,400K1,500Exclusive SingleCourt fees included (exclu court light fees)K1,700K1,000Familyexcluding court and light feesK400K300Single Adultexcluding court and light feesK260K200Juniors/ Studentsexcluding court and light feesK100K50SocialNo voting & office-bearer rights (non-member court fees)K130K65Country M/ShipResiding 100km away from POMK130K65The Port Moresby Racquet Club has been operating since the 1970s and provides a popular venue for squash and tennis players to play, whether in social gatherings or competitive levels.The courts were rebuilt for the 2015 Pacific Games and provide quality synthetic grass surfaces to play on.Located along Bava Street, Boroko; the club attracts members from across the city and even outside of city limits to the club every day. The club is bustling in the evenings with kids training sessions after school and social matches for the 9-5 workers into the night. Other social events are hosted at the club welcoming everyone to take part in a family-friendly setting.

Major Malls And Shopping Centres in PNGVision City Mega MallWebsite: www.visioncitypng.com Location: Corner of Waigani Drive and Sir John Guise Drive, WaiganiContact: +675 302 8555Operating Hours: 9am to 10pm DailyVision City Mega Mall, or “VC”, in Waigani is next to the Stanley Hotel and across the road from the Sir John Guise Stadium. VC is PNG’s most extensive shopping complex, housing more than 70 shops covering over 45,000 square meters of floor space. On offer are a supermarket, pharmacies, electronics, clothing and fashion, homewares, airlines and travel agencies. There is a wide range of restaurants, from steak houses to authentic Chinese dining, to noodle bars and pizzerias.On the top floor are a three-screen cinema complex and the popular Cosmopolitan nightclub.There is undercover parking with access to a car valet and free open-air parking too.Waterfront MallLocation: Champions Parade, KonedobuContact: +675 305 8600Email: [email protected] Hours: 8am to 8pm DailyWaterfront Mall is primarily a high-end supermarket with an extensive range of international products and groceries. As well as the supermarket, there is also a department store, BSP branch, phone and tech shops, telecom kiosks, clothing stores, a bottle shop (liquor store), Air Niugini booking agent, chemist and optician.There is ample car parking and high security.Harbour CityLocation: Harbour City Road (adjacent to Spring Garden Road)Contact: +675 312 0000 (supermarket)Operating Hours: 8am to 7:30pm DailyHarbour City is a mixed development precinct with residential, commercial, and retail outlets within safe walking distance and a stone’s throw from the CBD.  As well as apartment blocks, there is a large supermarket, bottleshop (liquor store), pharmacy, banks, restaurants, and coffee shops. Harbour City is also home to the American Embassy. There are several safe parking areas with access to all of the amenities.Waigani CentralWebsite: www.facebook.com/waiganicentralLocation: Waigani Drive and Poreporena FreewayContact: +675 323 8468Opening Hours: 8am to 9pm DailyWaigani Central contains a grocery supermarket and retail outlets spread across a large property with ample parking. The complex has a hardware store, shoe shop, homeware shops, a clothing boutique and a luxury gift shop. Several dining choices include a café within the supermarket, a restaurant and bar that offers a blend of local and international cuisines, and PNG’s leading fast-food chain drive-through.Liquor OutletsMost supermarkets have a liquor outlet, and there are several independent liquor stores around the city. Liquor licenses will usually trade from Monday to Saturday, 10am to 8pm. They are not allowed to open on Sundays.Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are further restrictions on alcohol sales, and stores are only allowed to trade between Monday and Thursday during the State of Emergency. Clothes and Fashion in Papua New GuineaClothing stores are located within most shopping complexes, with the largest selection in the Vision City Megamall, including JeansWest, Cherish Boutique, The One and Marks. Stores cater for men, women, and children and offer specialist lines such as beachwear and sporting wear. Jack’s of PNG offers high-quality unisex lines at their VC and Waigani Central stores, and most of the hotels have one of their boutiques.Boutique shops with a curated selection of PNG designer clothing, many of which feature on local fashion runways, are Miss PNG in Vision City, Glow Boutique inside the Shady Rest Hotel, and Maku Gifts at the Gordons Business Centre.Both hosted monthly, POM City Markets and Harbourside Night Markets are a safe and friendly environment to browse locally made products from small businesses. These markets sell unique PNG jewellery, while high-end pieces can be found at PNG’s two major jewellers; House of Gemini and Kara Jewellers. Local Food Markets in PNGPapua New Guinea has a wide variety of delicious local fruit and vegetables available from all supermarkets. However, open-air markets sell the freshest produce, such as at Boroko or Gordon’s markets. Local produce is brought directly from the Central and other provinces to these two markets before being distributed around the city by resellers. Travellers should take an escort with them as there are security risks at these locations. Pacific Adventist University (PAU) has a great market on Sundays. There is a wide range of organic produce, all grown within the university grounds. It is secure and reasonably priced, but the best products sell quickly, so arrive early.For seafood lovers, the Koki Fish Market is the chief market for seafood arriving direct from villages along the Central Province coastline. Whole fish can be selected and cleaned before being packaged. Image Source: pngpomlife.com PNG Arts and Crafts MarketsFrom Papua New Guinea’s diverse cultures comes an array of fantastic art and craft available all-year round. Craft markets are held every Saturday morning, alternating between the Laguna Hotel, Moresby Arts Theatre, the Holiday Inn, and the Ela Beach International Primary School.Visitors can expect to find products such as woven cane baskets, carved wood and clay artefacts, PNG’s famous woven string bags (Bilums), and local graphic art among many others. These are perfect as gifts or home décor.Another popular event is the Pom City Markets which take place every second Saturday and Sunday of the month at the PNG National Museum and Art Gallery in Waigani. It  provides a safe environment with a wide range of local products including clothing, arts and crafts, and food. Image Source: Loop PNG Online Shopping in Papua New GuineaOnline shopping in PNG has increased over the last few years and is now a popular option. Many businesses have an online store and social media presence. Like the rest of the world, scammers abound on social media platforms, so shop with caution.MarketMeri.com is PNG’s largest online marketplace listing classifieds under various non-food categories nationwide. Businesses and consumers can use this platform to buy and sell new and used items.

Anyone travelling to PNG for whatever purpose must have a valid entry permit or visa to enter. The Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) is responsible for administering visas in coordination with Papua New Guinea Embassies globally.You can visit the PNG ICA’s website for the latest visa requirements and a list of diplomatic missions globally: www.ica.gov.pg.For expatriates moving to PNG for work, employers typically manage the process of securing a work permit and visa for new overseas employees and any family travelling with them. Generally speaking:Employees will complete the application forms, keep copies, and send them along with the required documents to the employer, who will submit the applications themselves with the relevant authorities.The employee must be outside of PNG during this process.The employee will then submit a valid passport and copies of the application form to the closest High Commission, Embassy or Mission, who will issue the visa to the traveller.There are six types of visas available in PNG Visitor Visa This visa is for those holidaying in PNG, or visiting friends and family, and is available on a single or multiple entry basis; it does not allow the entrant to work in PNG. Applicants must prove they are genuine tourists or visitors and may be required to produce evidence to support this.PNG allows citizens from some countries to apply for a visa on arrival; however, the list of countries is limited. For example, Australian residents must obtain a visa before arriving in the country or risk being refused entry. Visit the ICA website to confirm the list of countries eligible for visas on arrival: https://ica.gov.pg/visa-information/visa-on-arrivalBusiness VisaAllows the entrant to conduct business for a short time in Papua New Guinea. Business activities include buying or selling goods, carrying out a trade mission, supporting a major infrastructure project, or carrying out any business with an authorised representative of an overseas company or person. Applicants may need to provide proof to support their application. PNG offers options for single or multiple entry business visas. Business visas on arrival are only available to eligible foreign nationals and under specific circumstances. Australians are not presently eligible for a visa on arrival. Visit the ICA website to confirm the list of countries eligible.Image Source: Loop PNGWorking Resident VisaThere are many different classes of visa associated with a working visa in PNG, such as employment, journalism, and restricted employment.Eligibility for a general employment visa will depend on the duration of the stay and specific circumstances of the application (for example, if you are the relevant employee or the spouse of an employee).Study VisaEligible for those enrolled in courses or otherwise studying in PNG. Applicants must prove they are studying and may be required to produce evidence to support this.Special Exemption VisaThis visa is for those undertaking specific activities within PNG, such as a foreign official, an accredited diplomat, or volunteers working with a volunteer agency. Eligibility criteria will depend on the individual circumstances and the length of stay.Permanent Resident VisaApplication for a permanent resident visa will depend on the applicant’s circumstances, their ties to PNG, and the duration of visas previously held.How to Apply for a Visa for PNGPaper ApplicationsPaper-based applications can be submitted by visiting the ICA website and downloading the relevant form. The form can be submitted to the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority (PNGICSA) or the nearest PNG Diplomatic Mission together with supporting documents.PNG eVisa ApplicationThe ICA website has a new online application process via the ICA website (www.ica.gov.pg) or by visiting: https://evisa.ica.gov.pg/evisa/account/Apply. Image Source: ICA eVisa Note, the eVisa process is not applicable for Working Residents.Cost of PNG visasEvery individual applying for an entry permit or visa must pay the relevant application fee. If applying from outside PNG, you should contact your nearest PNG Diplomatic Mission to obtain prices in your local currency.PNG Work PermitsTypes of PNG Work PermitsNon-citizens who wish to work in PNG will require a Work Permit from the Department of Labour and Industrial Relations. As with the visa, the employee will complete the application form and send it to the employer who will make the application. It is a prerequisite to obtaining a visa.There are three main types of work permits:General Work Permit: The most common type, where there is a commercial relationship between the employer and the employee.Volunteer Work Permit: Is where the employment contract between the employer and employee is voluntary.Bridging Work Permit: Is a permit granted for 60 days and allows non-citizens to remain in PNG while the new application for a work permit is processed.How to Apply for a PNG Work PermitVisit www.workspermits.gov.pg to find downloadable application forms. The Application Form, Passport, Medical Documentation and Police Certificate should be lodged at the relevant PNG Diplomatic Mission, along with the accompanying visa. Supporting documentation should be lodged by the sponsor at PNGICSA for approval.Dependents Dependants of the employed person, specifically the spouse, unmarried children under the age of 18, and elderly parents will need to complete a separate application for an entry permit.In exceptional cases, visitor entry permits may be granted to children over the age of 18 who are still dependent on their parents; this refers to a child who has a severe disability or is continuing their education in PNG.

Papua New Guinea is an attractive destination for expatriate workers. Career growth is a significant drawcard for employees, with the ability to secure senior roles that might otherwise be unavailable in their home country. In addition, the salaries and benefits available to expatriate workers are substantial, often exceeding comparable domestic wages.  Financial benefits and career growth, when coupled with the unique experience of working in a developing country and contributing to the country’s betterment, make PNG a dynamic employment destination for those willing to take up the challenge.  Types of Jobs Available in PNGPapua New Guinea welcomes workers from various professions; from general business roles such as CFO’s (Chief Financial Officer) and engineers, pilots, head chefs, and salespeople; the opportunities are limitless. Notwithstanding the variety of jobs available, PNG’s major industries dominate the opportunities for expatriates, such as mining, oil and gas projects, construction, banking,  and aviation. Specific disciplines that are in demand include management, accounting, HR, IT and engineering.     Residential vs FIFO RolesResidential roles are PNG based, with the employee having a permanent residential address in the country. By contrast, fly-in-fly-out or FIFO roles require the employee to be stationed in a location on a rotational basis for a period of time before returning home for a period. FIFO roles are typical in the aviation industry or for work at remote locations such as a mine site. Rotation periods vary between 4 to 6 weeks on-site and 4 to 2 weeks at home.  Wages in Papua New GuineaWages and benefits for expatriate workers in PNG are generally materially higher than for equivalent roles domestically. By law, all citizens and expatriate workers in PNG must be paid in PNG Kina directly to a PNG bank account. Contracts normally state an agreed wage in Kina; however, some employment contracts will benchmark against a foreign currency to protect the employee against currency fluctuations. Employees should check whether their wages are benchmarked against their local currency. Image Source: salaryexplorer.com Employment BenefitsEmployment benefits for expat employees in PNG vary by industry and company. Still, they often include many of the costs of living that an employee may otherwise bear themselves, making roles in PNG highly attractive. Expat benefits for residential employees generally include:A vehicleAccommodationSchool feesClub membershipsReturn flights to their resident countryPersonal protective equipment (if required)InsurancesExpat benefits for FIFO employees often include:MealsAccommodationReturn flights to their resident countryPersonal protective equipment (if required)Insurances  PNG Income taxIncome tax in PNG is relatively high compared with other countries, with the top tax band at around 42%. Employers will calculate and deduct income tax on behalf of the employee.Employees should note that there are no compulsory pension or superannuation deductions for non-citizen workers. Employees should consider specifying that their employer makes superannuation or pension payments to their relevant scheme in their home country on their behalf. Papua New Guinea has existing tax treaties with many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, China, Indonesia and the UK. As a result, workers with an employment contract for greater than 2 years are typically deemed to be non-resident for tax purposes and are not required to file tax returns in their home country.Image Source: Looppng.com Repatriation of WagesForeign employees are often concerned that Papua New Guinea’s low foreign currency reserves will inhibit their ability to repatriate their funds to their home country.Whilst PNG’s currency reserves are limited, expatriates can freely transfer funds by internet banking to an overseas account subject to a K10,000 limit per day with a bank fee of ~K50 per transaction. Visas and Work Permits in PNGThe employer in PNG generally obtains visas and work permits on behalf of the employee. Image Source: papuanewguinea.travel Things to Consider When Taking a Job in PNGWhile Papua New Guinea is a great place to live and work, several things should be considered before accepting a role. Your partner and children must fully understand the limitations when living in a foreign, developing country. For example, there are restrictions on movement in terms of security, which can have a major impact on lifestyle. Therefore, it is essential to conduct research and speak with other people who have lived or worked in PNG before taking the plunge.In addition, candidates should ideally possess specific personal attributes which make the transition easier; these include resilience, flexibility, cultural adaptability, positivity, mentoring capability and a willingness to create change.

Driving rules in Papua New Guinea are essentially the same as in Australia (which, in turn, are similar to the UK), with vehicles driving on the left-hand side of the road.All vehicles must display a valid registration and safety sticker, and drivers must carry a valid licence.Foreign licences are valid only for the first six months of residency. After that, drivers must obtain a full licence from Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) on Kunai Street in Port Moresby. Driving in PNG can be a challenge. Potholes are a common occurrence on highways, particularly during the wet season. Take caution when driving through puddles, as they may be much deeper than expected.Image Source: mooresinpng.blogspot.com Road discipline is another issue, as police rarely enforce traffic rules. Recklessness, speeding, and driving under the influence happen frequently compared with many other countries and result in many avoidable accidents. Road users must take precautions against any vehicles driving dangerously.Drivers should also take care of their security whilst driving, as car-jackings, whilst uncommon, do occur. The following are some simple steps to stay safe:Car alarms and vehicle trackers are available from security firms. These GPS enabled devices have a panic button in case of an emergency, and a patrol vehicle can quickly track your location to ensure you are safe.Situational awareness in respect to other vehicles is essential. If you suspect that a car is following you, make an unusual manoeuvre, such as circling a roundabout twice, to confirm your suspicions. If a vehicle is following you, drive directly to the nearest police station or safe haven.Keep car doors locked, particularly when stationary.When driving, keep enough distance between your car and the vehicle ahead of you to allow you to pull away in case of trouble. Leaving room between your car and the next car is especially important when in a traffic jam as this is a prime opportunity for robbery.Avoid driving at night where possible and, at minimum, avoid known trouble spots. Port Moresby has several reputable guarded taxi services, which should be considered for travel, especially at night. Taxis in PNGMany taxi companies operate in PNG and are identified by the “T” on the number plates. They are typically well branded and are allowed to pick up passengers off the street without pre-booking. Whilst most taxis are safe and reliable, the safety standards of some taxis are questionable.Taxis must have meters installed but are rarely used. It is therefore prudent to agree on the fare before travelling.Image Source: pngfacts.comSeveral companies specialise in providing secure transportation using high-quality vehicles. These do require a pre-booking, and fares can be paid via an account. These companies will often have different sized cars depending on the requirements, such as a small bus for an airport run. Non-nationals should generally utilise secure taxi services. Public Transport in Papua New GuineaPNG has an owner/operator public transport system. Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs) are owned by private companies or individuals and operate on behalf of the public transport system. The typical fare is K1 per trip regardless of the route. The most common PMVs are 22-seater Toyota Coasters, but large open-back utility trucks, such as an Isuzu flatbed, also qualify as a PMV.PMV’s are rarely used by non-nationals, particularly in the major cities. There are potential security risks associated with travelling on PMVs or waiting at bus stops. However, in some outer regions, such as Alotau, Kokopo and Kavieng, it’s relatively common to see expats jumping on board a bus. Domestic Flights in PNGThere are limited roads connecting Port Moresby to the rest of PNG. There are road links into Central Province and running as far as Kerema in Gulf Province. The main mode of transportation, therefore, is by air.There are two leading domestic airlines; Air Niugini, PNG’s flagship airline, and PNG Air. There are currently restrictions on domestic travel due to COVID-19; however, all provincial capitals are usually serviced several times a week.Flights are fairly expensive in PNG, with a Port Moresby to Lae standard fare costing around K800 one way, but with special fares starting at K400.

Papua New Guinea has a relatively low standard of healthcare compared to developed countries. Therefore, medical insurance is essential to ensure access to high-quality private medical facilities. Travellers to PNG should have precautionary vaccinations before entering the country and should seek advice from their GP. PNG is providing COVID-19 vaccinations to residents free of charge; however, supplies are limited, and travellers should ensure they are vaccinated before they arrive.The main general hospital, located at 4-Mile near Boroko, has a dedicated team of doctors and medical professionals but underfunding often results in shortages of medicines, equipment and staff. However, Port Moresby General Hospital is typically the best option for major trauma in a severe emergency. Next to the hospital is St John Ambulance who can provide medical emergency transport without charge.Within the vicinity are two major private hospitals; Pacific International Hospital and Paradise Hospital. They both have accident and emergency units, ambulances and general clinics and offer world-class treatments for a full spectrum of possible issues. However, these services are private and having medical insurance is critical.Hospitals and Medical Clinics in Port MoresbyPort Moresby General Hospital (POMGEN)Location: 3 Mile, Korobosea, Port MoresbyType: Public HospitalSpeciality: GeneralOpening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursWebsite: www.pomgen.gov.pg Contact: +675 324 8200Overview: Port Moresby General Hospital is the primary referral and teaching hospital in Papua New Guinea. It is also a centre for AIDS treatment in Papua New Guinea, one of only a few facilities equipped to treat HIV/AIDS. It also houses a hyperbaric recompression chamber for diving emergencies. The hospital is the only hospital in the country to have a CT scanner.Paradise Private HospitalLocation: Taurama Road, 3 Mile, Port MoresbyType: General and Specialist Private HealthcareSpeciality: General and SpecialistOpening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursWebsite: www.paradiseprivatehospital.co Contact: +675 325 6022Overview: Paradise Private Hospital is a general and specialist private health care provider with 14 permanent medical professionals and 10 visiting specialists providing locum services to cover 24-hour operations. The hospital is a modern 40-bed facility and has Obstetric, Surgical, Pediatric and Adult medical care facilities with 9 doctors’ consulting rooms, Laboratory, X-ray, Ultrasound Scan Imaging Services and a Pharmacy.Pacific International HospitalLocation: Taurama Road, 3 Mile, Port MoresbyType: General and Specialist Private HealthcareSpeciality: General and SpecialistOpening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursWebsite: www.pihpng.com Contact: +675 7998 8000Overview: Established in 1997 as PNG Diagnostic Centre, PIH has become the largest private hospital in PNG, offering expertise in more than 20 clinical specialities.2K Medical ClinicLocation: Tutua Avenue, Angau Drive, Port MoresbyType: ClinicSpeciality: SpecialistOpening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursWebsite: www.2kmed.com Contact: 323 7730Overview: 2K Medical Clinic provides 24-hour medical service. Family and internal medicine, children's diseases, emergency, laboratory and x-ray examinations.Aspen Medical Harbour CityLocation: Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, KonedobuType: General and Specialist Private HealthcareSpeciality: General and Specialist Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm, Sat 9am - 1pmWebsite: www.pihpng.com Contact: +675 321 0202 / 7459 7209Overview: Aspen Medical is an Australian-owned, multi-award-winning, global provider of healthcare solutions. City Specialists Medical Centre (CSMC)Location: Soare Street, Gordons, Port MoresbyType: General HealthcareSpeciality: General and Specialist Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursWebsite: www.facebook.com/CitySpecialistsMedicalCentre Contact: +675 7633 0580Overview: CSMC offers General and Specialist  Consultation services. Areas of specialisation include Internal Medicine, Cardiac Care, General and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Orthopaedic surgery, Obstetric and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) Surgery, Molecular Genetics (DNA Tests), Dermatology, Haematology and Pathology and Pain Medicine.Hospitals and Clinics in LaeAngua Memorial Provincial HospitalLocation: Markham Road, LaeType: Public HospitalSpeciality: General Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursContact: +675 473 2100Overview: Angau Memorial Provincial Hospital is the main public hospital in Lae and the referral hospital of the Momase region.Lae International HospitalLocation: Marsina Street, LaeType: Private HospitalSpeciality: General and Emergency Healthcare Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hoursContact: +675 472 7133 / 7190 2306Overview: LIH is the main private hospital in Lae with a 24 hour accident and emergency department, surgery, radiology, pediatrics and dental careMedical emergencies in PNGMost hospitals in PNG have an accident and emergency unit for emergencies, and St John Ambulance provides first aid and pre-hospital treatments. Call 111 in case of an emergencyFor the most severe emergencies, there are Medevac services that will evacuate patients to an Australian hospital. Travellers should check that their insurance covers this service.

Traveling to another country is always an unsettling experience regardless of what you do, the distance you’ve traveled or whether your new country has a similar culture to your origins or not. This process has been made slightly easier by the internet but accessing reliable and current information is still a chore and information obtained locally is more trustworthy and relevant. Moving to Papua New Guinea or PNG, would be a daunting process, especially if one is moving from a more economically developed country. This tiny Pacific island country is one hundred and sixty kilometers north of Australia, has a population of over 7 million, over 800 languages and a reputation for being ‘The Land of the Unexpected’; but it has an exotic allure combining the best of urban entertainment whilst allowing for various off-the-beaten track type of holiday adventures.PNG, being located in the heart of the tropics, provides a wide range of outdoor activities and you can be guaranteed that the weather will be perfect not matter your chosen activity. Another great advantage is the countless locations to choose from to go diving, snorkeling, swimming, trekking, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching etc. The statutory body that is responsible for coordinating and regulating all tourism activities is the Tourism Promotion Authority.Entry RequirementsFor your benefit it’s best to know your specific visa requirements prior to you making your journey, you can contact the nearest PNG Mission in your vicinity. As with any location it is better to familiarize yourself using a long time resident or a local tour guide that speaks the lingua franca ‘Tok Pisin’ fluently.SecurityPapua New Guineans are generally friendly and fun loving people. As with any other major centre in the world, there might  be unscrupulous opportunists so it is wise take precautions by paying attention to your surroundings, avoiding secluded places, organizing your travels to daytime and ensure that your valuables including passports and other travel documents are in a secure place. It is advisable to seek the local contact of your high commision or embassy and keep it on hand.  PNG’s national security will be heightened until the end of November this year (2018) to cater for the Australia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) which is being hosted in Port Moresby.CommunicationThere are four mobile service providers in PNG, Digicel has the best reach throughout the country, Bmobile Vodafone and Telikom networks may not be accessible in rural locations. All plans are compatible to international call rates. A new sim card will cost you K20, equivalent to about AUD$8.20 and the call plans range from daily plans for K3 (AUD$1.22) to monthly plans for K100 (AUD$40.99).AirportsJackson’s International Airport, also known as Port Moresby Airport, is the main hub for the nations two major commercial airlines; Air Niugini the national flag carrier and PNG Air. There are three other international airports; Gurney Airport in Milne Bay Province, Kagamuga Airport in the Western Highlands Province and Nadzab Airport in Morobe Province, provide links to coastal, highlands and in-land getaways respectively. The National Airports Corporation is the body that regulates all air services in PNG. Road travel is geographically challenging because of the rugged terrain carved out by many river systems throughout the country, many journeys are interrupted if a river floods a road or bridge.National Capital District and Central ProvinceOur focus is the National Capital District (NCD), the capital of Papua New Guinea and Central Province. NCD is built upon what used to be traditional land of the people of Central Province. NCD is commonly referred to as ‘Mosbi’ by locals even though Port Moresby is a suburb within NCD. According to projections from the 2011 PNG National Census, NCD and Central Province should have a total population of about eight hundred thousand. NCD and Central offer the best combination of urban nightlife entertainment and outdoor tropical adventures. NCD is where the majority of the nations hotels, motels, restaurants and the foreign missions are located.ShoppingNCD consists of eight suburbs which have their own shopping centres but if you prefer having the convenience of doing your grocery shopping, while grabbing a bite to eat,  and also watching a movie and perhaps having beauty treatment done in one stop; you have the choice of Vision City, Stop N Shop Waigani and Waterfront Foodworld. For locally grown organic food every Sunday between 6am to 10am The Pacific Adventist University grounds host a fresh food and produce market that offer secure parking and attractive prices. If you are planning a weekend outside of Port Moresby, there are also larger trade stores located in the main districts within the Central Province for your convenience.Pictured: Vision City Mall | Source: Looppng.com AccommodationFor short term stay there are literally hundreds of lodges, motels and hotels to choose from that offer a variety of services including airport shuttles, city tours and restaurants. Costs can vary from less than K100 per night for the budget traveller to over K1000 for the travelling executive.For a longer term stay the Airways Residences offer secure, beautifully landscaped grounds that have a convenience store, a bank, a pool, several restaurants, a gym, a massage parlour and generally everything you need in one compound.For longer term accomodation, there are over 3,000 properties and 78 real estate agencies that you can contact by visiting PNG's leading online property portal; Hausples.com.pg. Dining outThere are many places which offer a combination of a great scenic and gastronomic experiences. The following offer sea views: The Ela Beach Hotel, The Yacht Club, The Naked Fish on the Pier and The Edge. Outside of Port Moresby you have Loloata Island Resort and Sunset Lodge. If you prefer having a river and majestic mountains as your backdrop Cafe 630, Koitaki Country Club and the Kokoda Trail Motel are ideal locations. There is also a wide variety of Asian cuisine, including Fusion, Seoul Haus, Daikoku, Imperial, Golden Bowl and Fu Gui. Social ClubsNetworking and getting to know other expatriates in the country can be made easier by going to your nearest social club which include the Aviat Club, Car Club and the Yacht Club. During the weekends there is always a craft market happening where you can purchse examples of the art and culture of Papua New guinea. There are many expatriate clubs that gather frequently in the city - it is really a matter of linking up with those that share similar interests.Pictured: Royal Papua Yacht Club | Source: Royal Papua Yacht Club Business Site Places to VisitDepending on what tickles your fancy there are places that offer a great view, historical and cultural insights and resplendent traditional works of art like The National Museum, The PNG National Parliament House and the Port Moresby Nature Park.Pictured: Variarata National Park | Source: PNG Journeys (Twitter)If it’s a more family oriented leisure activity you are after there is the Port Moresby Adventure Park, The Variarata National Park pictured below has a walking track and many groups conduct their survival and team building camps in this area. The Crystal Rapids offer a refreshingly cool river with barbeque facilities available. There is also Sirinumu Dam - the dam that supplies water to the whole city, if you simply want to escape the city and let the kids run loose.There are many more places to eat, socialize, swim, snorkel, shop and be entertained that NCD and Central Province have to offer. Be adventurous and take a little time out and you will make some amazing memories in PNG.

If you are considering PNG properties for sale, www.hausples.com.pg lists more homes, land and commercial real estate for sale than any other website! About the PNG property marketPNG’s real estate market is unique in that that vast majority of PNG land is customarily owned (estimated to be upwards of 85%) and 80% of the countries 7 million citizens live in rural and remote areas. For this reason, the png properties for sale are generally limited to the major commercial centres of Port Moresby, Lae, Mount Hagen, Madang and Goroka.To compound PNG’s limited supply of freehold land, the real estate market has been through a boom over the past 10 years due in large part to a range of high profile infrastructure projects such as the Exxon Mobile PNG LNG project. Whilst price rises have been excellent for investors, PNG’s housing affordability has been at an all time low and this has made it very difficult for the average Papua New Guinean to afford a house, or even a cheaper style home such as an apartment or bedsit.Thankfully, the construction of a number of projects are coming to an end in 2014 and this has caused the property market, especially the rental market, to retract significantly from the high’s of 2012 and 2013. In addition, the PNG Government have introduced a range of new initiatives aimed at making it easier for people to purchase PNG properties for sale. One such scheme is the BSP / PNG Government’s First Home Ownership Loan Scheme which provides loans to homebuyers at a preferential interest rate of 4%.Please visit our dedicated page for more detailed information about Port Moresby real estate and market predictions for 2015. How Hausples.com.pg will helphe Hausples real estate portal is PNG’s No 1 real estate website, with more than 1,000 PNG properties listed for sale and rent, and this number is growing daily. Our website is free for any PNG real estate agent or property developer to list a property, and it is absolutely free for the public to use.We aim to make it easy to search for land, homes and commercial properties for sale through a simple web-design that is mobile phone and tablet friendly. You can also save your favourite png properties for sale and create email alerts to advise you when new homes for sale are listed on Hausples.com.pg.Finally, we are helping to make PNG’s property market more transparent by providing sold prices for PNG properties and providing an easily searchable database of available properties for sale and rent.

About the PNG rental marketResidents of Papua New Guinea will be unsurprised to hear that PNG properties for rent are the largest part of the real estate market. Unlike other countries in which real estate sales make-up the majority of activity, in PNG rental properties are where the bulk of transactions take place.The primary reason for this lies in PNG’s unique land titles system which means that the vast majority of real estate is owned under customary title, meaning there are limited plots of freehold land for sale. For a detailed explanation of the PNG land tenure system please visit our Port Moresby real estate page.As a result of the huge demand for rental properties, real estate agents maintain large teams dedicated to servicing landlords and tenants. Types of rental propertiesThe rental market can be divided into residential, commercial and land rentals. Residential rentalsThe residential market includes apartments, houses, townhouses, bedsitters (which are single room apartments similar to a studio apartment) and shared accommodation in which individual rooms are rented with shared bathrooms and other amenities.Generally, the cheapest rentals are 1 bedroom spaces in bedsitters (shared accommodation) which will rent for K150+ per week and the landlords typically prefer ladies. While 2 bedroom apartments and houses start at K500 per week and 3 bedroom apartments range from approximately K800 per week upwards. These prices are the lowest end of the available properties and will usually be found in less affluent areas such as Port Moresby’s Gerehu, Badili and Hohola.Unfortunately, the majority of rental properties in the major cities of Port Moresby and Lae are quite highly priced with approximately 60% of properties currently available on Hausples costing between than K1000 – K3000 per week. These properties are generally 2 to 3 bedroom and are located within a secure compound or apartment building with around the clock security. Rental properties of this type are available in suburbs such as East Boroko, Gordons and Korobosea.For expatriates, corporate rentals and executives, there are a range of properties costing K3,000 per week and ranging up to K7,000+ per week. These properties will all feature 24 / 7 security guards, full back-up electricity facilities, communal BBQ areas and most likely a pool. These houses and apartments are usually located in the best areas of Port Moresby such as the POM CBD (known as Town), Waigaini, Gordons and Ela Beach. Commercial rentalsPNG commercial real estate rentals are a relatively small segment of the market with under 50 commercial properties presently listed on Hausples.com.pg.The majority of commercial rentals are for warehouses and light commercial spaces. These properties are located within the major industrial centres in Gordons, 6 Mile and Badili. Whilst office space, commercial and retail (for example shops) rentals are commonly situated in Town(the Port Moresby CBD), 2 Mile and Boroko. Unfortunately PNG real estate agents do not tend to list monthly rental pricing for commercial property and as such many properties are listed as ‘Price On Application’. Land RentalsPNG land for rent is extremely limited. This is clearly demonstrated by a ratio of land rentals to land sales of 10 to 1 on the Hausples.com.pg website. Land for rent is generally limited to storage space. Undoubtedly there is a large amount of customary land which is rented for various purposes in rural areas for purposes such as agriculture, however this market is informal and therefore not listed on Hausples.com.pg. Hence, those searching for land to rent should also consider purchasing land Searching for PNG properties for rentHausples.com.pg recognises the importance of rental properties in PNG and as such our website is focussed on making it easy to search for and inquire about a rental home, land or commercial property. The site presently lists in excess of 500 homes for rent from over 20 real estate agents located in the major cities of Port Moresby and Lae.

Papua New Guinea OverviewHere is all you need to know about Papua New Guinea, the country specs, key features and the latest real estate prospects and trends.Papua New Guinea (PNG) occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and shares international borders with Australia, Indonesia, Solomon Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. It is an attractive investment destination and has immense potential in tourism, thanks to its flora and fauna and cultural and linguistic diversity.  It comprises 20 provinces, the autonomous region of Bougainville and Port Moresby, the National Capital District (NCD).Location and Economy of PNGPapua New Guinea (PNG) occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and shares international borders with Australia, Indonesia, Solomon Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. PNG is 160km north of Australia and includes over 600 islands and 5,000 km of coastline across 463,000 sq km.  The country comprises 22 provinces, the autonomous region of Bougainville and Port Moresby, and the National Capital District (NCD).PNG is endowed with natural resources and is home to one of the world’s largest tropical rainforests. The country has significant gold, silver, copper, nickel, cobalt, crude oil, natural gas and other mineral deposits. Forestry, mining, petroleum, agriculture and livestock, tourism and hospitality, fisheries, and manufacturing are the major economic drivers in PNG.PNG History and CultureArchaeological evidence suggests that the Island of New Guinea was first settled over 50,000 years ago by humans who likely arrived in two different migration groups at different times.  The first European contact occurred in the 16th century when Portuguese and Spanish explorers chanced upon the main island. Jorge de Menezes, a Portuguese explorer, called it “Papua” when he visited in 1526 – 1527. Spaniard Ynigo Ortiz de Retez called the island “New Guinea” in 1545 as he thought its inhabitants resembled indigenous populations on the African Guinea coast. The island’s southern area was colonised by the British in 1884 and was known as British New Guinea. In 1905, the territory was transferred to the Australian Commonwealth and renamed the Territory of Papua.The northern region, along with parts of the Highlands and Islands regions, was Germany’s territory and known as German New Guinea. Australian military forces captured these areas during World War 1 and administered the region afterwards. When PNG became independent in 1975, the names Papua and New Guinea became amalgamated, hence the name Papua New Guinea.The current estimated population of PNG is ~8.94 million with foreign nationals making up 1% of the total population. The majority of the population live in rural areas, with up to 25% of people residing in urban centres.PNG is reputedly the most ethnically diverse country in the world, with over 850 languages. Geographic regions broadly categorise Papua New Guineans: New Guineans (from the Momase area on the north mainland), Papuans (from the south), Highlanders and Islanders. Port Moresby, the capital of PNG, is situated within a natural harbour on the southwest coast of the mainland. The capital is culturally diverse, and the estimated population of Port Moresby is 400,000 residents.Climate of Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea is within the tropics, with a typical daytime temperature in the lowlands between 30 - 32 °C and dropping to 23 - 24 °C at night. Although the seasons are influenced by the trade winds (dry season between May and November) and northwesterly monsoons (wet season between December and March), the coastal areas are typically hot and humid all year round, and rain is common.Port Moresby tends to be drier than the rest of the country, receiving an average rainfall of 1020mm a year due partly to its sheltered location. By comparison, Madang gets an average of 3500mm of rain a year. The Highlands region is refreshingly cooler, with temperatures between 20 - 29 °C during the day, dropping to below 15 °C at night. Frost and snow are not uncommon in high altitude areas.Languages in PNGOfficial languages of PNG include English, Tok Pisin (also known as Pidgin English), PNG Sign language and Motu. English is widely spoken and used in the courts, by the government and the education system. English is typically spoken when conducting business, and translators are rarely required.Indigenous languages and local dialects number 850+.Currency, Credit Cards and GST in PNGThe PNG Kina is the currency of Papua New Guinea. One Kina (K) is constituted by 100 Toea (t) - pronounced “toy-ya”.Banknotes are denominated in K100, K50, K20, K10, K5 and K2. Coins in circulation are K1, 50t, 20t, 10t and 5t.All transactions in PNG are subject to 10% goods and services tax (GST). The GST component of a good or service is usually included in the published prices. Most shops, restaurants, and major hotels accept Amex, Diners, Mastercard and Visa credit cards.There are three banks in PNG: Bank South Pacific (BSP), Kina Bank and Westpac Bank. They all issue debit cards on request, as well as standard bank cards which can be used on EFTPOS in most major stores, but can’t be used for online transactions. Be warned, the queues at the bank can be quite long and tiresome, so setting up internet banking at the time of opening the account is wise.Cost of Living in Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea is an expensive country to live in, from housing to food and lifestyle costs. Rental prices have been compared to Manhattan or Sydney, and there are several reasons for this. The land tenure system favours traditional (customary) land ownership, and only a small proportion of land in PNG is state-owned (~3% by some estimates). Therefore, there is a shortage of land that is available for development, making land prices high. Secondly, many properties have essential services supplied that would not be typically required overseas, such as security, backup electricity and backup water. Secure, quality rental accommodation starts at K1,500 per week for a very affordable home and up to K6,500 for a luxury apartment. Many goods in PNG are imported, and as such, most products include the cost of freight and duty, which are higher than overseas markets. The following table compares commonly purchased groceries against common currencies. PGKAUDUSDGBPEURPHPExchange Rate Aug 2021 (Approx)10.390.290.210.2414.37Properties (per month)      3-Bed Mid Range Apartment 13,000.005,070.003,770.002,730.003,120.00186,810.003-Bed Luxury apartment 21,666.678,450.006,283.334,550.005,200.00311,350.00       Groceries      Coffee 225gm15.005.854.353.153.60215.55Milk 1l6.002.341.741.261.4486.22Cola 500ml3.501.371.020.740.8450.30Bottle water 500ml3.001.170.870.630.7243.11Sliced White Bread5.502.151.601.161.3279.04Rice 500gm3.001.170.870.630.7243.11Cheese (imported)18.007.025.223.784.32258.66Head of Lettuce (local)12.004.683.482.522.88172.44       Eating Out      Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant140.0054.6040.6029.4033.602,011.80Meal for 2 at a high-end restaurant250.0097.5072.5052.5060.003,592.50Local Beer12.004.683.482.522.88172.44Imported Beer15.005.854.353.153.60215.55Bottle of Wine60.0023.4017.4012.6014.40862.20Bottle of Spirits180.0070.2052.2037.8043.202,586.60       Education      From3,000.001,170.00870.00630.00720.0043,110.00To56,000.0021,840.0016,240.0011,760.0013,440.00804,720.00       Social Clubs per annum      From1,900.00741.00551.00399.00456.0027,303.00To4,300.001,677.001,247.00903.001,032.0061,791.00

The nature of land ownership is almost generic in many countries around the world; that is land held under freehold and leasehold. In Papua New Guinea’s case, a form of land ownership will come under either one of these two forms as well as customary land ownership. Our strong traditional connection to the land, calls for us to understand these forms of land ownership; in particular the rights, regulations and possibilities associated with them.Hausples had the opportunity to sit with Mr Benedict Batata, Commissioner for the Land Titles Commission and Mr Aquila Sampson, Acting Commissioner for the National Lands Commission to shed some light on this essential area of the [real estate market]. History of Land Titles in Papua New GuineaTaking a two hundred-year-or-so step back in our history, the traditional land owners in this country had their own mechanisms in place to deal with the issue of land ownership. These processes were aimed at mediating peace and finding a compromise between warring tribes – this same spirit we see now entrenched in our land mediation processes.The period of time which followed saw the arrival of the British Colonisers in Papua who brought along their system of land ownership used today – freehold and leaseholds, whilst recognizing traditional forms of ownership in the land by the native population. The land acquired by the colonizers were used for a variety of purposes, most commonly large plantations apparent in the New Guinea Islands.The years leading up to Independence saw the first real indication of how Papua New Guineans wanted their land to be regulated when the Commission of Inquiry into Land Matters Report 1973 suggested that upon independence, all land acquired by foreigners be given back to the traditional land owners, in particular those heavily affected by the issue of land shortages at the time. Those who kept their land at the time of Independence were required by law to have significant development made within 5 years or bear the risk of losing the land.Fast forward to 1996 and the passing of Land Act and its accompanying legislations saw the recognition of and processes to deal with land ownership; through the adopted leasehold and freeholds as well as customary land ownership. What is the Difference Between Freehold and Leasehold Titles?The most significant differences are the ownership of the land and the processes to acquire them. Leasehold Title:Leasehold titles involve a person who owns the land, but gives it to another whom will have ownership over property on the land for a period of time. In PNG, the most common form of leasehold dealing is through a State Lease lasting a maximum of 99 years. Much of ‘alienated’ land belongs to the State. As noted by by the Jones Lang Lasalle: Property Investment Guide 2014,  “97% of land in PNG is held under customary ownership for which there is no recorded title… All other land is alienated land held by the State” These statistics being from a few years ago, the percentage is likely to have increased, thus State Leases will be used as the primary example in understanding leaseholds.Another feature of leasehold titles is that once it has been registered and certified, the validity of the ownership cannot be challenged or defeated.  This feature was adopted when PNG adopted the Torrens Title System of Registration from Australia.In order to acquire a new State Lease administered by the Department of Lands and Physical Planning, the process begins with an allocation of vacant land in accordance with the plans made; that is whether a place is to be sold for residential, commercial or industrial purposes. When the allocation has been done, vacant land gets published in the National Gazette under the heading ‘Land Available for Leasing’. Individuals and companies may then apply for the lease of this land from the State.A lease may be applied for a period not exceeding 99 years and at its expiration the State is allowed, but not obliged to, renew the lease. Applications for State Leases are made to the Land Board which considers them and based on their merit, submits to the Minister for his decision. The Minister has the final say in granting or rejecting an application for a State Lease. In an instance where a lease is granted, the application will be published in the National Gazette under the heading ‘Successful Applicant.’ Freehold Title:Freehold titles indicate that the name of the person or business group on the Certificate of Title (COT) owns both the property and the land upon which it stands. Land which can be converted to freehold is originally customary land and cannot be State Land.Freehold land registration is not as commonly advocated for as the Incorporated Land Groups (ILG’s). ILG’s in comparison to freehold, involve a large number of groups or clans that have come together to register their members and respective customary land under one group. An ILG can then lease this land to businesses (most common mining companies) who operate on their land, in return paying royalties to the members of the ILG.Mr Batata outlined the process for registering a freehold title saying that “Under the Land (Ownership of Freeholds) Act, an application under Section 7 may be made to the Land Title’s Commission accompanied by survey plans of the proposed land. After deliberation, an issued Conversion Order will be given to the Registrar of Title’s (ROT) and they will issue a Certificate of Title.”The Land Title’s Commission, as Mr Batata explained “is responsible for the carrying out of investigations into applications to ensure that all interests in the land are addressed to prevent future disputes. However, if a dispute arises, the Land Title’s Commission has a mechanism in place to hear and settle disputes.” Customary Land:Making up the majority of land in PNG, it is important to take note of customary land which is also termed “unregistered land” because it doesn’t need a certificate to prove its validity. Given the country’s unique legal system which recognizes both customary and common (English) law land rights, the issue of customary land ownership and the specifics of boundaries are determined through the traditional mediation processes used by customary land owners.The option to deal with disputes in the Courts is also available which can be taken up in the Local Land Courts and Provincial Land Courts.Pictured is Eda Tano Haus, Department of Lands and Physical Planning. Located in Waigani. Photo source: ETS Architects What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Leasehold, Freehold and Customary Land?The advantages and disadvantages for each of these title ownerships are determined by the ‘restrictions’ which are tied to the title. Leasehold Title:State Leases contain one particular restriction, which is the approved purpose specified in the lease of that land. For instance, a car workshop cannot construct their place of business when their title has been leased for the purposes of residential use. This ensures the Physical Planning conditions specified by the Department of Lands and Physical Planning are complied with. Freehold Title:All freeholds titles have “Restrictions” detailed on the back of the Certificate of Title at the time of registration. These restrictions have been specified under Section 26 of the Land (Tenure Conversion) Act prohibiting the title holder from:Transferring or leasing the land for a period longer than 25 years only with the consent of the Land BoardUsing the land as security as a consequence of bankruptcy, insolvency etc.Mr Batata, used the example of using a title as security for a loan and explained that there is a way around these regulations to allow flexibility when using the title. This process is provided for under Section 26A of the Land (Tenure Conversion) Act under which an individual can apply to the Minister to remove the restrictions on the title. The Minister refers such applications to the Land Titles Commission to conduct investigations on the title and ensure that all parties that have legal interest to the title are satisfied, after which the restrictions may be removed. Customary LandCustomary land has the potential to be utilized to benefit many people if handled properly. One way is to register land under as an Incorporated Land Groups (ILG). This, among other things, identified all of the people with an interest in the land. This land can then be leased to businesses to conduct operations on the land and the customary land owners may in return receive royalty payments.Read more about The Benefits of Incorporated Land Owner Groups in PNG .Pictured are members of the registered ILG consisting of the Rokolo Clan in Irupara Village, Central Province. Photo source: Department of Lands and Physical Planning Other Views on Leaseholds and Freeholds – Restrictions on BorrowingVarious businesses have their own view on how to deal with leaseholds and freeholds for the purpose of their operations. An example given by Mr Batata (and confirmed by a Bank employee that wished to remain anonymous), was that banks do not generally recognize Freehold titles of property when considering loan applications. Despite there being a process available to remove the restrictions on Freehold titles, the banks would be more likely to entertain a Leasehold title of property as valid security for loans. How to Conduct a Papua New Guinea Title SearchMr Sampson of the National Lands Commission of the outlined the following process to conduct a title search:1. Anybody can conduct a title search at the ROT Office by:Going to ROT Office;State that you want to do a title search;Provide volume and folio number;Provide citation to the piece parcel or portion of land i.e. section and allotment numbers as well as the Town;2. Officer locates file with title documents3. Copies of documents are provided to the person conducting the search (if requested), including copy of the original title. The original copy will state the:lease holdertype of leasetenure of the lease (e.g. freehold, business, mission etc.)any other existing registered interest in the lease e.g. alien/mortgage4. Officer will provide a bill/invoice to be paid at the counter before providing an receipt. The fee for conducting a title search K100 for each titles searched plus photocopying fees.Further Information:For more information regarding the Freehold and Leasehold Titles as well as Customary Land Ownership, the Offices below can be contacted on the following:Department of Lands and Physical PlanningFor relevant Office contact information, click on link above.Registrar of TitlesTelephone:            (+675) 301 3246Fax:                        (+675) 301 3299Land Titles CommissionPO Box 815PORT MORESBY, NCDGeneral Enquiries:            323 1927/325 1491Email:                   [email protected]  National Lands CommissionPO Box 591WAIGANI NCDGeneral Enquires: +675 323 1895Fax:                       323 2822Email:                   [email protected]

Saving is the first step to building wealth and obtaining true financial freedom. But how do you start saving when you have little money left to save?One of the key mistakes that we do is wait for “spare money or extra bucks” to appear in our fortnightly income, so we can save. For most, that day never comes, and building a savings remains an unchecked task on the list of financial “To Dos.” This month, we give you 5 Simple tips to help you SAVE, even on a limited Budget. 1. Identify a goalDefine your purpose for saving, whether it’s buying a car or saving up equity for your first home, planning for a baby, or simply earning the financial independence to live the life you want. Start by making a plan; know how much you earn, what you spend on and how much you can put aside to save. Setting your goal in stone will keep your “eye on the prize” when other temptations to spend arise. 2. Keep it out of sightStart by paying yourself first and putting a portion of your pay (even if it’s small) directly into a savings account before you are able to use it.Payroll Deductions: Arrange this with your employer facilitate payroll deductions, before your pay hits the Account.Standing Orders: You can put a Standing Order on your Transaction Account, so there is an automated deduction from your account to your nominated Savings Account. 3. Get paid for savingOpening a savings account has become simple and affordable to manage. There are various options to save. Look at a savings account that is able to lock away your money, earn interest but also has the flexibility to allow you access to your funds in case of emergencies. It is better to be paying yourself and earning an interest than repaying a debt. 4. Contribute as often as you canSaving regularly is key to building your savings balance, but finding small opportunities to save will also help you to gain momentum and keep savings climbing. Review your fortnightly expenses, and see if you can cut back on a few expenses like socialising and sharing a few drinks with friends or spending money on betelnuts and cigarettes.Do the math: We spend K5 per day on betelnuts and K5 per day on cigarettes, maybe more. In one year, you will have spent K10 x 365 days = K3,650.It is better to cut back every now and then. Take the proceeds of your eliminated expenses, and put them right into savings. 5. Open a BSP Plus Saver AccountBSP’s Plus Saver Account is an optional account that can be opened easily if you have a BSP Kundu Account. The Account can be linked to Mobile and Internet Banking. You can view your Balance and Account Statements any time. It does not have a Bank Card linked to the Account, which means that you cannot access your funds via an ATM or an EFTPoS. But of course, if there’s an emergency and you need extra funds from your Plus Saver Account, you can use Mobile Banking to transfer funds from your Plus Saver to your Kundu Account to use.Funds can also be transferred via Mobile and Internet Banking from your main transaction Account to your Plus Saver for Free. A tiered interest plan is paid to your savings balance. This simply means, the more you save, the more interest is paid. Want to know more? Inquire HERE directly to BSP! Or Read more about this product HERE

As many of you are getting ready for the Christmas break, the Hausples.com.pg team in collaboration with Cayman Properties is releasing the second part of the guide manual about purchasing property in Queensland in the fastest, easiest and most secure way. If you have missed the first part of the guide, catch up by reading it HERE!The Main Steps in the Purchase ProcessStep 1: There is an initial deposit to hold the property: An initial deposit of $5,000 is required to reserve the property. In other words, it will be take it off the market temporarily while you review the contract for sale. This is for a period of two weeks (14 days). If you choose to not go through with the purchase or you fail to fulfill the necessary steps, the deposit will be refunded and no sale will happen.Step 2: There is a legal review of the contract: It must be reviewed by your Australian solicitor. They must then provide professional advice.Step 3: The full deposit is due at signing: The full deposit is typically 10% of the total purchase price. (Financing will require a 20% deposit in total. This 10% will count towards it.)Step 4: Getting finance and FIRB approval: If you are still trying to get financing approved, in order to protect yourself, you can make the contract “Subject to finance approval.” This typically gives you 14 days from the date you signed the contract to get financing in place. If financing falls through, you can terminate the contract. Remember, in order to get a loan in Australia, you will need approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board. Thus, those two details go hand-in-hand.SettlementThe amount of time it takes to get to settlement varies. Existing residential property is typically settled 30 – 60 days after the contract is signed. Pre-construction (“Off the plan”) residential property typically takes around 12 months to be completed. The balance of the purchase price is due at the time of settlement. This is typically 14 days after construction is finished. New homes with separate land and house contracts have separate settlement dates for each contract. The contract for the land is typically settled 30 – 60 days after the contract is signed. Meanwhile, the payments for the house contract are typically done as 5 draw down installments during construction.Insurance and Other ExpensesOf course, the loan payments are not the entire cost involved in owning a property. You should be aware of some of the following typical local expenses: Council rates and water levies are due bi-annually. Utilities, such as gas and electricity, are due quarterly. For apartments, there are quarterly Body Corporate Levies. For homes, there is insurance, due annually.Please note that tenants are responsible for their own utilities and for insurance on the contents of the property. Those are not the landlord’s responsibility. However, Body Corporate Levies include coverage of building insurance. The landlord is responsible for covering common areas plus the walls, floors, and ceilings of the apartment. You are responsible for insurance coverage starting the day you sign the contract.If you have bought a new house, the builder will provide insurance during the construction. Once the construction is completed and you take possession, you responsible for insurance to cover replacement value and the contents of the home.Furnished versus Unfurnished PropertyIn Australia, residential property is typically sold unfurnished. However, “unfurnished” means different things in different countries. So, to be clear, it is standard for unfurnished properties to include a cooktop, an oven, an extraction fan, a dishwasher, an air conditioner, and letterbox. It may also include fencing and landscaping.In Australia, rentals units are also typically unfurnished. However, this is not always the case. Apartments that offer short-term leases must be furnished. Additionally, it is a good idea to furnish residential property that is located close to a business district. In such cases, the additional upfront cost of furnishing the unit can be well worth it. Furnished units near business districts typically charge an extra $20- $50 per bedroom for a weekly rental. Over time, this extra money really adds up and can more than cover the initial costs involved in furnishing the unit.Time to Invest is now. Why?You have just 3 weeks until the Australian Government is bringing in new Foreign investment laws will charge all Foreign investors A $5,000 approval fee!This legislation will come into effect on 1 December 2015 which is just 3 weeks away. Click here for further details. With this new fee your purchase costs on a $400,000 home will increase from approximately 5% currently to 6.25%.So if you are intending to purchase property this year why pay more than you have to?Let us help you with FINANCE, LEGAL SERVICES, and BUILDING. We make it so easy for you to invest when based overseas.We have just listed new 4 bedroom home in Smithfield Cairns area suitable for a Foreign Investors with beautiful high raked ceilings and plenty of light and breeze.Click Here to See Australian Properties and Inquire Now!Want to meet the expert Angela Vinnicombe in PNG directly? Book an appointment HERE NOW!

If you are interested in making an investment in Australia but do not know all the requirements or just need specific information on what are the steps to guarantee a successful outcome, then read our guide to purchasing property in Queensland!The Four Most Common Reasons Why Foreigners Buy Real Property in QueenslandMost foreigners who consider purchasing real property in Australia do so for one of the following reasons:Education: Australia’s education system is a magnet for some foreigners. For families looking to send their children to school or to a University in Australia, it often makes more financial sense to buy property near the school in question than to pay boarding fees.Permanent residency: An application for permanent residency in Australia typically takes years to process. Many things are considered in deciding whether or not to grant residency. Property ownership can positively impact the application, in part because it helps establish financial viability of the applicant. For those who can afford it and want to skew the odds in their favor, buying real property is an obvious choice.Low cost properties and good financial returns: Compared to many other locations, Australia’s property prices are low. When combined with generally low vacancy rates, the result for investors is consistent and strong returns, typically 5 – 6%. Adding to the appeal, some loan instruments include variable finance rates below 5%.Need for a part-time residence: Some people do not live full time in Australia, but do visit it very regularly. Owning a part-time residence can be a sensible alternative to hotels for people who routinely engage in business or social activities locally.The Three Main Types of Foreign Investment PropertiesResidential Apartments: Typically, an investor purchases a single apartment in a complex. For some investors, the appeal is that there is usually on-site staff to deal with the day-to-day details of caring for the property and renting it out. Such apartments may be rented out furnished or unfurnished. Furnished apartments charge a premium compared to unfurnished units.Detached Single-Family Houses: This can be an appealing option for an investor because you will only have to pay stamp duty on the value of the land you purchased with the house, rather than on the full value of the house plus the land. On a property with an overall value of $400,000, this constitutes a savings of around $8,000.Commercial Property: This includes things like office space, retail shops and warehouses. One reason this appeals to some investors is that leases are typically three or five years. Another reason that such properties can have appeal is that some of them do not require approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB).The Foreign Investment Review Board Defines Legal Eligibility and Limitations for Foreign InvestorsForeign investors are subject to restrictions on the type and amount of existing or previously-occupied property that they can purchase. However, investment in new property is generally not subject to the same kinds of restrictions. Additionally, you will need a solicitor to file your application with the Australian Government. In most cases, the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) must pre-approve the intended purchase. For additional information, please see their website:http://www.firb.gov.au/content/real_estate/real_estate.aspCommon Requirements of Australian LendersProvided they meet certain criteria, it is possible for foreign investors to get local financing through an Australian financial institution. Typical lending criteria may include:The loan amount will be for no more than 80% of the property value.The investor must have secured approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board prior to loan approval.The loan cannot be longer than 30 years.The lender will first confirm your income. Some typical documents required for confirmation include tax returns, employment contract, and a letter from your employer.Professional Advisors and Legal ExpensesLocal law requires you to use a Queensland-based Solicitor or Conveyancing Officer. You can expect there to be legal expenses on the order of AU$1500 for each property.If you plan to rent out the property, you will need an Australian Tax File Number. You will also need to file an annual income tax return in Australia. A local tax advisor can help you file your taxes properly and track tax deductible expenses, such as purchasing costs, loan interest, insurance costs and management fees.The Stamp DutyThe Queensland State Government applies a transaction tax on all property acquisitions under its jurisdiction. This tax is called the Stamp Duty. Owner-occupiers effectively pay a lower rate than investors (landlords, who rent the property out). Here are some examples for comparison purposes only:On a new home with a total value of $400,000, the investor Stamp Duty would be $12,425, but the owner-occupier Stamp Duty would only be $5,250.In a case where the Stamp Duty is only due on the land value and its value is $180,000, the investor Stamp duty would be $4,725, but the owner-occupier Stamp Duty would only be $1,800.Additional information on the stamp duty is available from the Queensland Office of State Revenue official website at www.osr.qld.gov.au. The website has tools that will allow you to calculate the duty by entering the purchase price.The Capital Gains TaxAt time of sale, investment properties are subject to a Capital Gains Tax on any increase in value the property has seen during the time it was owned. However, the sale of one’s primary place of residence is exempt from the Capital Gains Tax. To get an idea of how much this tax is likely to be, you can visit the Australian Tax Office official website at www.ato.gov.au or consult a registered Taxation Advisor.Read more about Australian upcoming laws for foreign investors and check out Australian Properties for sale or express your interest to obtain assistance in purchasing a property in Australia!

Are you thinking of selling a home in PNG? If you’re considering putting your home on the market then you need to do one important thing first – PREPARE your home for the real estate market. In case you’re baffled on how to go about doing this, Hausples has got you covered with our guide to preparing your home for its potential sale. As any Papua New Guinean knows, Home sales in PNG are fairly stable at the moment with the market coming down from the boom times experienced at the height of the PNG LNG project. In addition, banks and financial institutions are being more stringent in ensuring that applicants fit their lending criteria with regard to one’s affordability which is utting further pressure on the market. Despite this, any homeowner can’t still achieve an excellent sale price for his or her home with a little planning and some investment in time and marketing dollars. The first step in achieving you desired price when selling a home in PNG is to source the expertise of a properly qualified real estate agent rather than relying on your own wits and whims. Hausples caught up with Strickland Real Estate’s Gayle Nast to get tips on fixing up a home before going head on with the inevitable sale. As a real estate professional that’s been in the game for 21 years, Nast explains that it’s imperative to involve realtors as they are objective and this is particularly so when it comes to real estate in the major cities of Port Moresby and Lae. “It is wise to use the services of a professional real estate agent to conduct the negotiations for price, settlement, what stays with the property [assets] and any other aspect.  The real estate agent is non-emotive and impartial whereas some vendors [sellers] and purchasers can become very heated and emotional during the negotiation and selling stage.  By engaging a professional real estate agent, you can prevent the stress of negotiations and sometimes end up with a very positive result…” Having worked in both the real estate markets of Port Moresby and Sydney (Australia), Nast is well-versed in ensuring that the vendor makes a successful sale. First decide when is the best time to sell your home Nast stated that the vendor’s inclination to sell their home hangs on the absence of any financial pressure. Therefore, the nonexistence of financial pressure plus the vendor’s willingness to sell is equivalent to the best time for the vendor to make a sale. Moreover, PNG vendors have a lead in being able to sell their home at any time without being influenced by climatic changes.“Typically, Australian and New Zealand Real Estate markets focus on the spring period. However, this focus isn’t applicable here in PNG, mainly due to the fantastic climate,” explained Nast. Second hire a respectable solicitor or lawyer To ensure that there are no legal pitfalls after the property is sold, it is absolutely critical to hire a qualified legal adviser and this is particular important in Papua New Guinean given the majority of land is subject to state leases. According to Nast, there are often technical legal issues involved with selling PNG property and so it is paramount to obtain advice about the aspects of legal documents associated with the sale and settlement of a property. She added that the use of a solicitor would ensure that all paperwork and titles pertaining to the sale of the property would be accessible to the vendor. Nast recommended that a number of essentials be cross-checked against the paperwork such as the following:Check out, compare and interview several real estate agentsCompare their marketing strategy, recent sales and negotiation skillsAsk for referrals from previous or current clientsAsk for their professional opinion as to what the property would sell forFinally ask what their commission is for the successful sale of the property Third, know the target market for your home In addition, vendors should also determine who the target market is for their particular property so that they market to that audience appropriately. As stated by Nast, the target market is determined by the property being offered for sale. Therefore, buyers can range from first-home buyers to second and third-time home buyers. And when it comes to buyers, it’s all about leaving them with a lasting first impression where they are captivated with your property. So ultimately, the vendor’s goal is to make certain that their property’s presentation is impeccable.“Presentation makes the property welcoming, neat and tidy…tidy up outside, especially any pet mess, rubbish [and] ensure that the steps leading to the home are safe and secure,” stated Nast.In all, keeping in mind all the above points is key to making your very own successful sale. Whether you own a timber or clad house, pylon or stilt style, selling your home can and should deliver to you a good return. Copyright Hausples.com.pg, article by Pauline Mago-King

As a PNG homeowner, it’s your duty to make your home a reflection of you. Whether you’re an artsy sort of a person or someone who likes subtlety when it comes to decorating, there’s no reason why you can’t make your home be YOUR home. The idea of decorating or refurbishing a home tends to give people the impression that it’s a hefty exercise. However, if done right it’s bound to be a lot less costly. In this Hausples.com.pg guide we give you some tips on you to spruce up you home without spending all your Kina. The first tip – plan, plan, plan. Planning involves mapping out how you want to decorate; how long it’s going to take; what type of theme you’d like to incorporate into your PNG home; and most importantly how much you’re willing to spend and whether it’s in line with your budget. From your budget, you should have a fair idea of how much you want to spend. With your budget sorted out, you have two approaches to take; you either brainstorm simple Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects or go for the long road by carrying out a complete renovation of your home.For those who love a challenge of DIY projects then you’ll be pleased to know that spicing up your home is as easy as ABC. You can start off by searching the Internet, particularly websites like Pinterest that give 101 ideas on decorating. Otherwise, the old magazines you have lying around the house could also be a perfect source of inspiration.From the balcony to the bedroom, there’s so many things one can do transform their home’s image. The front door entrance is a great place to make a bold statement. With the help of a hammer/drill and nails, you could hang an intricate cane placemat or carving. Or if you think your furniture is looking a bit drab then instead of purchasing a new set, save money by re-upholstering with your own favourite choice of colours. You could also treat your wooden furniture like cabinets, tables and chairs to a fresh coat of varnish or paint.For décor, there are a multitude of items one can use for interior decoration. In a country like Papua New Guinea (PNG) that spins on the axis of culture, one can use various cultural artifacts for décor. Be it beautifully woven bilums or striking clay pots, artifacts are a great way of investing in your home’s “look”. Renovating on a budget… it is possible! If you already have arrays of décor and have tried your hand at DIY projects and still want to do something more extreme like renovating then that’s fine too. It is essential to decide where exactly you’d like to renovate. After doing so, the next most important factor to keep in mind before venturing onto the path of renovation is once again, BUDGET. If you’re on a mission to save a lot of Kina, it’s wise to get quotations from all the shops you’re planning to purchase from. The quotations allow you to compare prices and determine where you’re likely to save a Kina or two.In Port Moresby, people have a range of hardware stores to look at if they’re considering a home makeover. Yet what most people are looking for when shopping for building supplies is to get not only quality but also cheap materials.For instance, if you’re thinking of giving your bathroom a fresh look with some new tiling then it’d be best to check out a shop like City Pacific Hardware. Unlike other hardware stores, City Pacific Hardware is the perfect option for the grassroots. Word of mouth has proven that this hardware store is the ideal place to scope out refurbishing supplies. It’s been running for four years and seen a great influx of Port Moresby residents.Whether they’re in the process of building their first homes or simply renovating, Port Moresby residents have turned to this hardware store for their needs, supply-wise. Supply and Distribution Manager of City Pacific Hardware, Crisanto Solis stated that since the store’s establishment, it has seen a large number of people coming in to purchase construction materials.“What makes our shop different is that it is a one-stop shop with cheap prices. The products we sell are not only affordable but of good quality.”Also, NasFund members can hold onto their hats as this hardware shop accepts Nasfund cheques. The convenience and affordability provided by shops like City Pacific Hardware are two elements to consider when giving a home a fix up.For those with looking for a one-stop-shop, the Hardware Haus chain of stores operates out of a number of locations  throughout PNG including Port Moresby, Lae, Goroka, Mt Hagen, Madang, Wewak, Kavieng and Kokopo. Hardware Haus carry a very diverse range of hardware and home furnishing to complete almost any job PNG home related task.Whether you’re decorating or renovating your home, dressing up a home doesn’t have to be an expensive task. If you’ve taken the liberty of doing your homework then you’re likely to save a lot more Kina and ultimately end up with a refreshing home.City Pacific Hardware is located at Erima just next door to Erima Big Rooster.Business Hours: Monday – Sunday 7:30 – 16:30Copyright Hausples.com.pg, article by Pauline Mago-King

Following the announcement last Wednesday that the Bank of South Pacific and the Government of Papua New Guinea  have formally signed an agreement to make First Home Ownership Scheme Loans (FHOS) available, BSP have now announced the eligibility criteria and application forms for people to apply for a loan. Key details of the FHOSEligible borrowers will have access to heavily discounted interest rate and preferential loan terms. Below are the key terms of the FHOS:Maximum loan amount of K400,0004% fixed rate of interestUp to 40 year loan termNo bank charges of feesNil penalties for early repayment of the loanCertain restrictions on the resale or refinancing of the loan Eligibility Criteria and how to applyEligibility Criteria for a First Home Ownership Scheme LoanBe a citizen of Papua New GuineaProvide proof and evidence of a 10% contribution to the equity of the home purchased (for example in the form of a deposit)Be employed and earning a regular incomeNot have previously owned a homeIntend to live in the home (home must be owner-occupied)Documents that must be provided in support of the applicationBank statements if you are BSP customer3 months of prior bank statements if accounts are not held with BSPStatement regarding current or prior debts owed to banks or other lenders for the preceding 3 months3 months of prior payslipsEvidence of current employment or a copy of your employment contractHow to apply for a First Home Ownership Scheme LoanComplete the BSP Loan Application Form or visit the FHOS page of the BSP WebsiteSubmit copies of the Title Deed confirming ownership of the land or the lease if State ownedStatutory declaration confirming this is your first home and you will live in the homePlease note: Further eligibility criteria and loan conditions will apply, please seek clarification by visiting the BSP website or a BSP branch.Commercial terms of the loanMaximum loan amount of K400,0004% fixed rate of interestUp to 40 year loan termNo bank charges of feesNil penalties for early repayment of the loanCertain restrictions on the resale or refinancing of the loan How does the FHOS compare to a standard loan?The following is a comparison of the commercial terms of a First Home Ownership Scheme Loan versus a typical home loan from one of the major commercial banks in PNG such as BSP or ANZ:4% fixed interest VS current interest rates of approx 8.45% – 9%40 years for repayment VS typical repayment terms of a maximum of 30 yearsNo bank fees VS a variety of fees and charges levied on the typical home loanNo penalty for early repayment VS  charges or ‘break costs’ associated with a standard home loanOn the basis of the above, the First Home Ownership Scheme Loan provides a large incentive for people searching for their first home to buy in PNG.However, people considering First Home Ownership Scheme Loans should also bear in mind some of the important terms and conditions attached to the loan. For example, the restrictions on the sale of the property or refinancing of the loan is designed, amongst other things, to keep the house in the family for enjoyment by future generations. In addition, it is expected that this restriction will also prevent people speculating on property price rises and selling homes at a profit.In addition, the requirement that the home be owner occupied will restrict borrowers from renting the property and this must be borne in mind in case a purchaser anticipates future career moves or other lifestyle changes that might require them to move home.Finally, borrowers should be aware that the First Home Ownership Scheme Loans are still a commercial arrangement between the borrower and BSP, and are not a form of grant, tax break or other concession by the Government. As such, borrowers will still be expected meet their loan obligations. What do you think of the FHOS? Are the eligibility criteria fair? Will you be applying? Tell us in the comments below