BLUF

The cost of redeveloping PNG’s Lombrum Naval Base has inflated to AUD 500 million, exceeding initial budgets. The upgrades—intended to enhance regional maritime capability—now raise concerns about financial oversight and long-term sustainability.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the strategic importance of Lombrum for regional maritime operations.
  • Apply lessons in cost control and oversight in forward-base infrastructure projects.
  • Assess risks to Defence capability planning from project budget instability.
READ: Australia spends $500m on Papua New Guinea's Lombrum naval base expansion

References