The Public Services Commission (PSC) today formally presented its Annual Reports for the years 2022 and 2023 to the Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, during a ceremony held at Government House.
Chairman of the Public Services Commission, Mr. Apeo Fuata Sione, L.M, M. PP, presented the reports, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance in the public sector.
The 2022 and 2023 reports provide a detailed overview of the Commission’s operations, its key achievements, and the challenges faced over the past two years. Mr. Sione said that these reports are not only a statutory obligation, but a critical tool for public accountability.
The reports also detailed the PSC’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives, aimed at improving operational efficiency in the roles and functions it performs in the public service.
In line with statutory requirements under Section 191 (4) of the National Constitution and Section 17(1) of the Public Services (Management) Act 2020, the reports will be presented to Parliament through the Office of the Governor General. They will also be made accessible, via the Commission’s website and office to encourage broader public engagement.

The Public Services Commission (PSC) continues its commitment to digital transformation and professional excellence, as IT Manager, Mr. Terupo Boone, recently completed the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) 4 course training at the Datec Learning Centre in Gordons, from April 23rd – April 25th, 2025.

The Information Technology Training Infrastructure Library is the internationally recognized framework for IT Service Management (ITSM), equipping IT professionals with best practices to deliver high-value, business-aligned IT services.

Reflecting on the training, Mr. Boone said the course offers a practical roadmap for improving service quality, managing risk, and aligning IT operations with strategic public service goals.

“ITIL 4, enables me to implement standardized processes, foster continual improvement, and enhance collaboration across departments. It’s about ensuring the Commission’s IT services support our mission of public service excellence”, he said.

Key components covered in the course, included:

• The Service Value System (SVS) – showing how all parts of an organization work together to create value.
• Guiding Principles – like “focus on value” and “keep it simple and practical”.
• Core Practices – such as incident management, change enablement, and continual improvement.

Mr. Boone further acknowledged PSC’s support in enabling this professional development opportunity.

“I am grateful to PSC for investing in staff training that not only enhances our skills, but also our ability to deliver impactful results in the role we perform for the organization,” he said.

This achievement not only marks a personal milestone for Mr. Boone, but also reflects the PSC’s broader vision of fostering a future-ready workforce, one that embraces innovation, strengthens service delivery, and upholds the highest standards of public sector performance.

It was a bittersweet occasion on Monday, 14th April, as the Public Services Commission (PSC) bid farewell to its esteemed Director of the Legal, Advisory & Litigation Division (LA&LD), Mr. Richard Simbil, at the PSC Office in Port Moresby.
Over the years, Mr. Simbil has been more than a legal expert—he has been a mentor, strategist, and a steadfast advocate for PSC’s mission. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the legal direction of the Commission.
PSC Chairman, Mr. Apeo Sione, reflected on Mr. Simbil’s significant contributions, describing him as a hardworking and knowledgeable professional in the fields of administrative law and litigation.
“He was able to provide prudent, high-quality legal advice to guide the Commission in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities. His counsel extended not only within the Commission but also to key stakeholders and the National Executive Council,” said Mr. Sione.
Commissioner National, Ms. Judith Stenis, commended Mr. Simbil’s service, stating that his dedication and commitment have set a benchmark within the Commission.
Some of Mr. Simbil’s notable achievements include:
• Assisting retired Director of the LA&LD Mr. Eremas Andrew, under the leadership of former PSC Chairman Dr. Philip Kereme, PhD, to file a Supreme Court reference in 2014 in relation to the functions of the PSC, which concluded in 2019 in favour of the Commission.
• Filed a PSC Court Reference in 2023 challenging the law that barred public servants from returning to the public service if they contested the National General Elections, and can only do so after five years. The Supreme Court ruled in favour of the Commission on 6th February, 2025.
• Contributing to the amalgamation process of the Commission and PSC Secretariat.
• Enhancing the PSC Review Function.
• Supporting the recent court decision that now allows aggrieved probationary public servants to seek a review of personnel matters with PSC.
In his farewell remarks, Mr. Simbil expressed his gratitude to the PSC for entrusting him with roles that not only contributed to the Commission but also shaped his own professional journey.
With his wealth of knowledge and unwavering dedication to excellence, Mr. Simbil has navigated PSC through complex legal challenges, ensuring the Commission not only complies with the law but thrives within it.
As we reflect on his impactful tenure, Mr. Simbil’s legacy is evident in the high standards of professionalism, integrity, and the strong relationships he has built throughout his career at PSC.
While we will greatly miss his insight and leadership, we are excited for the new journey ahead of him. We extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Mr. Simbil in all his future endeavours.

By PSC Media

The Public Services Commission (PSC) is sending out this important update in its jurisdiction regarding personnel matters for long-term casuals and probationary officers employed in the National Public Service.
These changes arise from the Supreme Court decision in the case of Forae v Kereme & Ors (2024) SC2583, alongside a reassessment of legal provisions.
They include:
• Long-Term Casual Employees: Employees whose casual employment commenced prior to the Fourth Edition of the General Orders in 2012, can now lodge complaints as permanent officers of the public service, in line with the Supreme Court ruling. As per General Order 7.2, departments are required to reclassify such employees, but many failed to do so. The decision retroactively recognizes their rights starting from 1st January, 2012.

Relevant Legal Provisions:

• Supreme Court judgement in Forae v Kereme & Ors (2024) SC2583: Grants retroactive recognition.
• Section 2 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995: Defines “officer” and distinguishes casual employees from permanent officers.

• Probationary Officers: Probationary officers who meet the qualifications set out in Section 35 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995, are now confirmed as “officers” eligible to lodge complaints on personnel matters to PSC. Previously, probationary officers were deemed ineligible, but this updated interpretation ensures inclusion.

Relevant Legal Provisions:

• Section 35 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995: Details the qualifications required to be appointed as an “officer”.
• General Order 4.17: Highlights partly in terms and conditions between probationary and permanent officers.
  What This Means: The PSC is reaffirming its commitment to justice and inclusivity by ensuring that all public servants, whether long-term casual employees or probationary officers, can now apply for a review of a personnel matter if they are aggrieved by a decision taken against them by their Departmental Head. This update, reinforces PSC’s dedication to aligning practices with legal standards and providing equitable treatment for all public servants.

By PSC Media

The Public Services Commission (PSC) is proud to acknowledge nine (9) of its Administrative Assistants who received Certificates of Appreciation for their active participation in the International Administrative Professional Summit, hosted by the Papua New Guinea All Admin Professionals (PNGAAP) on Thursday, 17th April 2025, at Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, in Port Moresby.
This significant event brought together administrative professionals from a broad range of backgrounds, including government departments, state agencies, and the private sector, to share experiences, build professional networks, and highlight the evolving role of administrative staff in modern workplaces.
The summit was held under the theme ‘Gender Bender’, with key topics focusing on:
• Recognition of professional skills through embracing diversity, inclusivity, and equality;
• Celebrating the character and contributions of administrative professionals;
• Understanding challenges related to traditional gender roles and workplace expectations;
• Encouraging continued professionalism and excellence within the field.
Ms. Noho Daera, Acting Personnel Assistant to the Office of the Secretary, PSC Secretariat, spoke on behalf of the team, sharing her reflections on the summit’s impact saying it is important to create a network between administrative professionals in the public sector.
“This enables us to work in unison and also helps us to carry out our duties and responsibilities with the knowledge and skills attained from being part of this Association. Therefore, moving forward, it is recommended for our participation in future training and conferences organized by the PNGAAP”, said Ms. Daera.
The PNGAAP continues to play a vital role in promoting the professional and social welfare of administrative personnel across PNG, and is committed to fostering a culture of learning, excellence, and empowerment for office professionals.
This year, the PSC proudly registered ten (10) Administrative Assistants and one (1) Receptionist as official members of the PNGAAP. This affiliation not only opens doors to further professional development, but also aligns with the Commission’s commitment to capacity building and career advancement.
The officers who attended the summit expressed their sincere gratitude to the PSC, for its ongoing support and for recognizing the value of such opportunities in enhancing their skills, confidence, and contribution to the public service.

The Chairman of the Public Services Commission Mr. Apeo Fuata Sione, LM, M. PP yesterday presented a cheque for K350,000. 00 to the Wako Landowner Business Incorporated Group of Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province in a ceremony held at the PSC office in Waigani.

The Wako Landowner Business Inc. is the landowner group of Portion 721 in Kagamuga where PSC is currently building its first regional office.

Principal Landowners Mr. Willie Wananga and Mr. Joe Las Wananga of the Yamaka tribe were on hand to receive the cheque and thanked PSC for assisting them to finally receive their land award after waiting for almost 40 years.

“That is our customary land, and our forefathers in their wisdom gave the land on which Portion 721 is also located to the State for infrastructure to be built. So, when they gave that land, the State was supposed to present a land award as a form of appreciation, but that never happened. Our forefathers have followed up on this award for 40 years and many have already passed on, and still, nothing has been forthcoming from the State. When the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) planned to build their office on our land, we raised our grievance with IPA and they went out of their way to help us from which K46,000. 00 was released but the balance is still outstanding”, explained Mr. Willie Wananga.

Mr. Wananga added that when he heard that another government entity was going to build on their land they were frustrated and raised this grievance with the Secretary of the PSC Secretariat Mr. Terence Tupi who was on-site at the time, and Mr. Tupi was very cordial and empathetic and advised them that PSC will take this onboard and assist them.

“The kind assistance from PSC has now seen the landowner group receive this payment today and I want to thank the Chairman, Commissioners, Secretary, and the PSC for their invaluable assistance so that now we see a part payment from the State”, said Mr. Wananga.

PSC Secretary, Mr. Terence Tupi further elaborated that the award was for K700, 000.00 + 50% interest which was to be paid to the landowner group when they gave up their customary land to the State. He said when the Yamaka tribe brought their grievances to PSC whilst he was on site in Mt Hagen, he raised this issue with the PSC Steering Committee which is made up of various government stakeholders in December 2022 and was advised to pay K350, 000.00 from the PSC’s PIP project funds whilst the outstanding balance will be settled by the State through the Department of Finance. This is so that the construction of the PSC office will proceed without any obstacles.

Meantime, the construction of the PSC office in Mt. Hagen is expected to be completed by the end of March 2023.