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New Grant Scheme Supports Workplace Disability Inclusion

Dec 1, 2025

Business Council of Papua New Guinea members can now access grants of up to K50,000 to make workplaces more accessible and inclusive for employees with disabilities through the new Workplace Disability Inclusion Grant Scheme (WDIGS).

The WDIGS programme, delivered through the APEP EmployAbility Project, recognises that persons with disabilities represent an untapped talent pool for PNG businesses. With approximately 15% of PNG's population living with some form of disability, many businesses are missing opportunities to recruit skilled workers.

This grant scheme is about breaking down barriers. Whether it's installing a wheelchair ramp, providing assistive technology, or training staff on disability inclusion, these grants are available to help businesses take practical steps toward creating truly inclusive workplaces.

Three Tiers Available

The scheme offers three grant tiers to suit different business sizes:

·         Tier 1: K1,000-K10,000 for businesses with 5+ staff

·         Tier 2: K10,000-K25,000 for businesses with 10+ staff

·         Tier 3: K25,000-K50,000 for businesses with 25+ staff

Successful applicants will receive 70% of their grant upfront to begin implementation, with the remaining 30% paid upon completion and reporting.

Business Benefits

Beyond the financial support, businesses that invest in accessibility and inclusion report multiple benefits:

·         Access to a wider talent pool of qualified workers

·         Improved workplace culture and employee morale

·         Enhanced business reputation and brand image

·         Better customer service capabilities

·         Compliance with international standards

How to Apply

Applications are open throughout November 2025. All Business Council of PNG members are eligible to apply, provided they meet basic criteria including IPA Certificate of Good Standing and minimum operating history.

Download application materials from employabilitytoolkit.org or contact info@cufa.org.au for more information.

Application Deadline: 30 November 2025

The Business Council of Papua New Guinea (BCPNG) held its 2026 Annual General Meeting on 23 September 2026 at Airways Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing members together to review the Council’s progress over the 2025/26 financial year and confirm changes to the BCPNG Board.

Presenting the President’s Report, BCPNG President Susil Nelson-Kongoi highlighted FY2025/26 as a year of implementation, consolidation and institutional strengthening for the Council.

A key focus during the year was the continued delivery of BCPNG’s “Strengthening Content” strategy, aimed at improving the way member concerns are translated into evidence, technical analysis, policy positions and structured engagement with Government.

The Council continued to strengthen its Government-to-Business model by connecting Technical Working Groups, Taskforces, major forums, research and policy engagement into a more coordinated advocacy pathway.

Among the year’s institutional milestones was the signing of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding between BCPNG and the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council, providing a stronger framework for regular Government-to-Business dialogue and the progression of private-sector priorities.

The President also acknowledged the contribution of BCPNG members, Technical Working Groups, Taskforces, Government and development partners, sponsors and the Secretariat in strengthening the Council’s role as an evidence-led voice for Papua New Guinea’s private sector.

Board Changes Following the AGM

The AGM also marked an important transition in BCPNG’s Board leadership.

BCPNG formally acknowledged outgoing Board members Kee Lim and Kenneth Imako for their longstanding service to the Council.

BCPNG extends its sincere appreciation to both for their leadership, experience and contribution to the Council and to Papua New Guinea’s wider private sector.

The Council also welcomed Zhi Quan Tam as a new Board member.

Adam Kramer has also now joined the Executive Board as Vice President International, succeeding Kenneth Imako.

BCPNG looks forward to working with its 2026–2027 Board, members and partners as the Council continues to strengthen private-sector advocacy, evidence-led policy engagement and constructive dialogue with Government.

As BCPNG enters the new financial year, the Council remains focused on building stronger partnerships, stronger institutions and a stronger business environment for Papua New Guinea.