The Australian government has given an extra $US700,000 to support Bougainville's referendum on independence from Papua New Guinea.
Bougainville president John Momis, left, and former PNG Prime Minister Peter O'Neill sign the agreement on the question for the independence referendum. Photo: Joseph Nobetau
The support, part of Australia's $US35.6 million in annual aid to Bougainville, was announced last week by Australia's High Commissioner to PNG, Bruce Davis.
The first half of the money has been made available through the United Nations' Bougainville Referendum Support Project.
It builds on Australia's existing support of nearly $US7 million for the referendum.
Mr Davis said Australia wants to see a well-run process that strengthens the prospect for continued peace and stability in the post-vote transition period.
The referendum is due to be held in June but a lack of funding for the commission could force the vote to be postponed.
After thanking Australia, one of the commissioner's from Bougainville, Patrick Nisira, called on the PNG government to release funds allocated to the commission.
He also thanked Japan and New Zealand for contributions to the commission, the latter having gifted $US1 million in May 2018.
Members of the PNG and Bougainville governments who are part of the Joint Supervisory Body are reportedly meeting at the end of the week, when it's expected the commission's request to postpone the referendum will be considered.
