Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) Recruitment: Officer Cadet and Direct-entry Officer Application

Dreaming of a career where every day is an adventure? The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) offers aspiring candidates the opportunity to proudly serve their nation. Whether you're aiming to be an officer cadet or a direct-entry officer, this information will walk you through the essential steps to join this elite force through the PNGDF Recruitment Process.

📸Papua New Guinea Defence Force/Facebook

To apply for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), follow these steps:

1. Eligibility: Males and females aged between 18 and 27 years.

2. Training Duration: 3 months at Goldie Recruit Training Depot.

3. Required Documents:

   - Expression/Letter of Interest

   - Copies of Certificates (Grades 10 & 12) and other Tertiary Certificates

   - Police clearance

   - Updated CV & Reference

 Officer Cadet Applications

1. Eligibility: Males and females aged between 18 and 30 years.

2. Training Duration: 18 months at the Joint Forces Academy in Igam Barracks, Lae.

3. Required Documents:

   - Expression/Letter of Interest

   - Copies of Certificates (Grades 10 & 12) and other Tertiary Certificates

   - Police clearance

   - Updated CV & Reference

Do you think the PNGDF recruitment should be done via DHERST Online Selection? Click here to find out.

If you are a grade 12 school leaver wanting to apply to the PNGDF cadet program, check out this article, click here. It gives information about the options that you will have to fill through the DHERST online application system.

 Direct Entry Officer Applications

1. Eligibility: Males and females aged between 18-30 years with tertiary qualifications and currently in the workforce.

2. Training Duration: 3 months at Igam Barracks, Lae.

3. Required Documents:

   - Expression/Letter of Interest

   - Copies of Certificates (Grades 10 & 12) and other Tertiary Certificates

   - Police clearance

   - Updated CV & Reference

 Application Process

The PNGDF Recruiting Office does not have an email address or application forms at the moment. Applicants must provide the required documents to the military recruitment office by post or hand delivery in Port Moresby.

Postal Address:

Headquarters PNG Defence Force

RECRUITMENT OFFICE

PMB, BOROKO

MURRAY BARRACKS

NCD

LATEST UPDATES on PNGDF 2025-2026 Recruitment

The formal recruitment process for the 2025-2026 Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has not yet been officially announced. However, aspiring candidates can stay updated by following PNGDF on social media, reading newspapers, and keeping an eye on online news outlets. Below is the application process that you should know in advance.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has outlined its recruitment process in past recruitment drives. The  2025-2026 may also be the same, offering opportunities for general enlistees, officer cadets, and direct entry officers. 

While the formal recruitment announcement is yet to be released, aspiring candidates can prepare by gathering the necessary documents, writing a compelling letter of interest, and ensuring physical fitness. To stay updated on the recruitment process, follow PNGDF on social media, read newspapers, and monitor online news outlets. 

Read about Marape's Police and PNGDF Recruitment and Second Chance Education Plan 2029

PNG Defence Force: Passout Paves the Way for New Recruitment

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) is preparing for the graduation of its first batch of 2023 recruits. After undergoing a rigorous training program at Goldie River Training Depot outside Port Moresby, these new soldiers are expected to pass out next month (April 2024). 

📸Papua New Guinea Defence Force/Facebook

This graduation ceremony marks a significant achievement for the recruits and signifies their official entry into the PNGDF. While details on the next PNGDF recruitment drive haven't been officially announced, it's traditionally held after the passout ceremony for the current batch.

In the meantime, the 2021 intake of 90 recruits, who resumed training in January 2024, are also nearing the end of their program and are expected to finish by April.

Therefore, aspiring soldiers who are eager to serve their country should keep an eye on official PNGDF channels and news outlets. 

Information regarding the 2024 PNGDF recruitment, including eligibility requirements and application procedures, will likely be released following the successful passout of the current recruits. 

Police and PNGDF Recruitment and Second Chance Education Plan 2029

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is grappling with challenges in law and order, defence, and education. Rising living costs, unemployment, and social problems have led to violence, especially affecting children and women. 

Prime Minister James Marape's government is responding with significant efforts to address these concerns and implement long-term plans for a better future.

CHECK OUT THE LATEST INFORMATION OF APPLICATION FORM AND CONTACTS HERE

Addressing the Breakdown of Law and Order

The recent killings of innocent individuals in various parts of the country have raised serious concerns about the state of law and order in PNG. 

The Prime Minister acknowledges that these issues cannot be overlooked, and it is the government's responsibility to take the lead in addressing them. 

Despite past reports and discussions in the media, concrete actions and firm approaches have been lacking.

On the 1st of August 2023, the Prime Minister assures the nation that his government is committed to finding lasting solutions to curb violence, and create a safer environment for all citizens in a parliament debate on the 1st of August 2023.

Investing in Police and Law Enforcement

The rising lawlessness and restlessness in the country are the consequences of long-neglected issues, particularly concerning the youth population. 

The lack of proper investment in education and job opportunities has left many young people without prospects, leading to a surge in crime and violence. 

The Prime Minister acknowledges that the government has not done enough in the past, and he aims to change this by allocating significant resources to the law and order sector.

Police and Defence Recruitment

To combat the prevailing lawlessness, the PNG government is taking significant steps to strengthen the police force and the entire law and justice sector. 

The 2023 budget has seen record allocations for the police and justice system, with an emphasis on increasing manpower and providing necessary resources. 

The government plans to recruit a thousand (1,000) new police officers annually until 2029, aiming to expand the police force to a level that can effectively handle the country's growing population and maintain law and order.

The Prime Minister is determined to prioritise the recruitment of new officers, retire outstanding obligations, and implement comprehensive reforms to improve police efficiency. 

Furthermore, the government is working in partnership with international organisations, such as the Australian government, to receive support in training and specialised interventions where necessary.

Here is a better way to recruit Police and Defence Officers in PNG, click here to find out. The current online recruitment process may not be as efficient as it was thought to be.

Second Chance Education for Youth

Recognising the critical role of education in curbing lawlessness and empowering the youth, the PNG government has initiated Second Chance Education programs. 

These programs provide an opportunity for those who have dropped out of school to return and continue their education. More than 80,000 youths have taken advantage of this initiative in, paving the way for a brighter future. 

The Prime Minister calls on other young people to embrace this opportunity and abstain from lawlessness, as education and skills development are essential for building a prosperous and peaceful nation.

PNG's Government Plan of Action to 2029

The developments in PNG's police and defence sectors, along with the implementation of Second Chance Education programs, are crucial steps toward addressing the nation's pressing challenges. 

While the issues of law and order may not be resolved overnight, the government's commitment and actions demonstrate a dedication to addressing the root causes and providing a conducive environment for growth and development. 

Prime Minister James Marape said that his government is making substantial investments and strategic plans to secure a safer and more prosperous future for all citizens. But, importantly, this remains to be seen!

PNG Defence Force Application, Recruitment, and Training | Non-school Leavers

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's security and protecting its citizens. If you aspire to serve your country and pursue a career in the military, the PNGDF offers opportunities for application, recruitment, and training. 

This article provides essential information for non-school leavers interested in applying for the PNGDF recruitment, intending to undergo training in 2024.

If you are a grade 12 school leaver wanting to apply to the PNGDF cadet program, check out this article, click here. It gives information about the options that you will have to fill through the DHERST online application system.

How to Apply for PNG Defence Force Recruitment

To apply for the PNG Defence Force recruitment, follow these steps:

• 1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on media announcements and updates regarding the recruitment process. The PNGDF typically advertises vacancies through various channels.
• 2. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the basic requirements for the role you wish to apply for. The PNGDF has different application processes and criteria for different positions.
• 3. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your application. These may include your school qualifications, tertiary or trade qualifications, employment history, driver's license details, criminal convictions, medical information, vaccination history, and preferred trades and services.
• 4. Submit Your Application: The PNGDF does not currently have an email address or online application forms. To apply, you can either send your documents by post or hand-deliver them to the PNGDF Recruitment Office located at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby.

Eligibility and Requirements

To be considered for the PNGDF recruitment, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

• 1. Age: General enlistee applicants must be between 18 and 27 years old. Officer cadet applicants should be between 18 and 30 years old. Direct entry officer applicants also need to be between 18 and 30 years old.
• 2. Education: You must have completed at least three years of secondary school education.
• 3. Medical Fitness: Applicants must meet the required medical standards to ensure they are fit for service.
• 4. Citizenship and Security: You must meet the citizenship and security requirements set by the PNGDF.

5 Things to Know Before Applying for PNG DF in 2024

Before applying for the PNGDF recruitment, here are five important points to consider:

• 1. Responsibilities of the Job: Understand the nature of the job and the responsibilities that come with it. Serving in the military requires dedication, discipline, and a commitment to protecting your country.
• 2. Competitive Application: While meeting the minimum requirements is essential, strive to exceed them to become a more competitive applicant. Showcase any additional qualifications, skills, or experiences that can set you apart from other candidates.
• 3. Physical Fitness: The military demands physical fitness. Prepare yourself physically before applying by engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• 4. Commitment and Sacrifice: Serving in the PNGDF requires a significant commitment and personal sacrifice. Be prepared to dedicate your time and energy to the organization, often being away from family and facing challenging situations.
• 5. Career Advancement Opportunities: The PNGDF offers various career advancement opportunities, including specialized training, promotions, and professional development. Research and understand the possibilities for growth within the organization.

By considering these points and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, you can better prepare yourself for the PNGDF recruitment process in 2024. 

Remember to stay updated on announcements and follow the application instructions provided by the PNGDF. 

Serving in the military can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, allowing you to contribute to the security and defence of Papua New Guinea.

Here is the latest on PNG Defence Force Application that you should know, click here to find out.

FAQs: PNG Defence Force Application, Recruitment, and Training 2024

Q1: What is the minimum age requirement to apply for the PNG Defence Force recruitment in 2024?

A1: The minimum age requirement for general enlistee applicants is 18 years old, while officer cadet and direct entry officer applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.

Q2: What educational qualifications are necessary to be eligible for the PNGDF recruitment?

A2: Applicants should have completed at least three years of secondary school education.

Q3: Can females apply for the PNG Defence Force recruitment?

A3: Yes, both males and females are eligible to apply for various positions within the PNGDF.

Q4: How can I get an application form for the PNG Defence Force?

A4: Currently, the PNGDF does not have an online application form. You can the army barracks in Port Moresby, Lae or other centres in the country and ask for the 2024 PNGDF application form.

Q5: What are the key responsibilities of serving in the PNG Defence Force?

A5: Serving in the PNGDF entails responsibilities such as defending the nation, protecting its citizens, maintaining peace and security, and upholding the values and principles of the organization. The specific duties may vary based on the chosen trade or position within the force.

PNGDF Military Cadet Programme 2024 Recruitment

Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) Commander Major-General Mark Goina says his administration is looking to reintroduce the school military cadet programme. The PNGDF Military Cadet Programme Recruitment is now awaiting the approval of the PNG government.

If you are a non-school leaver wanting to apply to the PNGDF recruitment, click here to get more information about how to apply. You can also see the 2024 notice of application for PNG Fire Service here.

Here is a brief overview of the programme.

PNGDF Commander Major-General Mark Goina (insert)

(Want to work as a Data Collector in the 2024 National Census nationwide? Here is how to apply)

History

The PNG Defence Force Commander said the PNGDF Military Cadet Programme existed in pre-Independence, in the 1960s and early 1970s, in schools. 

The Marape Government was keen on reintroducing the programme.

Importance of PNGDF Cadet Programme

The PNGDF Military Cadet Programme is vital for instilling discipline and command and building good character among the younger generation.

“PNGDF will play a supporting role in this programme that would be headed by the reserve force legislation.” PNG Force (PNGDF) Commander Major-General Mark Goina.  

 

PNGDF Military Cadet Programme

The PNGDF Cadet programme will come in three stages

1. Reserve force, 
2. Youth programme and
3. School cadet programme.

The youth programme had started, run by the PNGDF’s reserves, capability and development branch.

The intent is to allow the youths to go through a programme in collaboration with the National Youth Services and other government agencies and departments that deal with youths.

Awaiting PNG Government Approval

The PNG Defence Force made a submission to the PNG government and is awaiting approval from the National Executive Council (NEC). 

PNGDF is hoping that the submission will go through Parliament and be enacted into law.

The PNGDF Reserve Force Branch is ready to roll out the PNGDF Cadet Programme when the government gives the approval.

PNGDF Recruitment - DHERST

The PNGDF will recruit new intakes next year in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST).

“Going in 2023 onwards, all applicants will come through the school leavers’ form, we have established a collaboration with the higher education department to assist and screen through our requirements.” PNG Force (PNGDF) Commander Major-General Mark Goina.

If the applicants are successful they will be recruiting with the PNG Defence Force as early as next year.

How to apply for PNGDF Military Cadet Programme Recruitment?

It is still early, but we know that the PNGDF cadet programme will be run by the PNGDF under the reserve force umbrella programme.

Selection will be done by the higher education department. That means that the Grade 12 students must apply through the National Online Application System (NOAS).

In fact, this is a better way to do the selection and run the programme as it cuts out the 'middle-man' in the selection process.

The RPNGC police recruitment has taken its 2022 recruitment online to ease the process of selection and recruitment.

The PNGDF Cadet programme will be directly supported by the PNG Government under the TESAS (HECAS & AES) scholarship scheme if/when the students are selected through NOAS. Also, students can enter as non-school leavers and get selected as self-sponsored students. This remains to be seen for now.

Meanwhile, if you are a 2023/2024 Grade 12 school leaver, ask your school for that latest information as you fill in your online school leavers form this year. 

School Leavers DHERST selection

The selection through the DHERST's NOAS is the best way forward for PNGDF. 

This education blog hopes that the RPNGC (Police) and CIS (Warder) also follow the same selection and recruitment channel.

Select the Grade 12 school leavers through DHERST's NOAS, recruit them into the programmes and train them to be better citizens.

PNG CIS Recruitment, Selection and Training 2024 Information

The CIS calling for the recruitment of 120 Custodial Officers. The recruitment is in line with the reforms stipulated in the Strategic Plan.

The recruitment drive this year is the first step in achieving a secure and containment environment for the CIS Remand and Convicted Detainees in the 21 Correctional Institution Facilities around our country.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT PAY BRIBE TO ANY CIS OFFICER OR ANYONE WHO CLAIMS TO BE A CIS RECRUITMENT OFFICER. THIS RECRUITMENT DRIVE IS A PUBLIC SERVICE EXERCISE TO STRENGHTEN CIS IN THE COUNTRY. REPORT ANYONE ASKING FOR MONEY (OR EXPECTING APPLICANTS TO PAY THEM IN CASH OR KIND) TO THE CONTACT ADDRESS BELOW WITH HIS/HER PHOTOS AND A BRIEF STATEMENT CLEARLY STATING THE OFFICER'S INTENTION TO EXTORT MONEY FROM YOU. 

Click here to check out the latest on the 2024 CIS recruitment name list and training. The article has the latest updates on the cause of the delay in the release of the selection name list and the commencement of the 2024 warder training.

• Here is the latest information on PNGDF recruitment for 2024.

• Want to work as a Data Collector in the 2024 National Census nationwide? Here is how to apply

CIS Recruitment and Training 

If your name appears on the PNG CIS Correctional Service Custodial Officers Pre-Entry Testing and Interview Listings, here is what will happen. 

There are 5 stages of the recruitment process. 

1. Release of the CIS Recruitment List,
2. Sitting the CIS pre-entry test
3. Interview
4. Documents validations
5. Releasing of the final CIS selection list 2024 for 2025 training

Download the list at the CIS website. Follow the link to the CIS Recruitment List PDF file, see below.

Download the PNG CIS Recruitment List PDF 

Below are the short-listed applicants who have been selected to undergo Pre-Entry Tests, Interviews and other mandatory selection processes.

The names on the CIS recruitment list are arranged according to your local CIS branch. Go straight to your provincial CIS branch and identify your name. 

If you have applied and your name is not on the list, it means that you have not been selected.

You can also get information on Police Recruitment 2024/2025 on this page.

Click on the blue link to download the CIS Recruitment Name List PDF

What applicants must do

Applicants must go to their designated locations between November and December 2024. Download the CIS application list 2024 and check the dates of each of the 21 CIS locations.  

Applicants who reside in other provinces must arrange their own travel to the appointed locations for testing.

Correctional Service will not be liable for any individual issues or expenses incurred during the time of the Recruitment exercise. 

Recruitment for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville will be conducted in Buka and Arawa.

New interested applicants not in this approved list can apply directly to Correctional Service Headquarters for consideration for future recruitment.

Papua New Guinea Correctional Service, CIS

The Papua New Guinea Correctional Service is established under the Correctional Service Act 1995. Its strategic development activities are outlined in its Strategic Plan and its Annual Activity Implementation Plan aligned to the MTDP III and Law and Justice Sector Policy which empowers us to provide a safe and secure society for all.

Correctional Service’s main priority is captured in the Correctional Service Strategic Plan for “Modernization and Reform”.

This recruitment exercise (RECRUITMENT OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICE CUSTODIAL OFFICERS, PRE-ENTRY TESTING and INTERVIEW EXERCISE) is in line with the long-term development plan of modernising and reforming the PNG CIS.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or contact the CIS recruitment team directly.

(PHONE)    +675 312 1700 

(EMAIL)    infodesk@cs.gov.pg