Up to K2.4 million (AUD$1 million) has been given in support of the work of the Bougainville Referendum Commission (BRC) from the Australian Government.

The announcement was made by Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea H.E Bruce Davis in Buka today.

“As a witness to the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement, Australia wants to see a well-run process that strengthens the prospect for continued peace and stability in the post-vote transition period,” Mr Davis said.

The first $500, 000 has already been made available through the United Nations Development Program’s Bougainville Referendum Support Project.

Bougainville Commissioner to the BRC Patrick Nisira thanked the Australian government for the continuous partnership and support given which will enable the BRC to progress its important activities.

He also called on the national government to release funds allocated for the BRC.

“Since its establishment the BRC has been operating without funds and therefore I call on the National Government to release funds allocated for the BRC so that it can conduct its independent work,” he said.

Mr. Nisira also thanked the governments of New Zealand and Japan who have also provided similar support towards the BRC.

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