When did Australia took steps to prepare Papua New Guinea for political independence?
Australia began taking steps to prepare Papua New Guinea for political independence in the 1960s. In 1964, they established a House of Assembly in Papua New Guinea, which allowed for greater local representation and participation in decision-making processes. This was followed by the introduction of an executive council in 1968, which further increased local involvement in governance.
In the early 1970s, Australia initiated talks with Papua New Guinea's indigenous leaders to discuss the path towards independence. In 1973, the two countries signed the Papua New Guinea Independence Act, which provided a framework for the gradual transfer of power from Australia to Papua New Guinea.
Various reforms were implemented to strengthen local institutions, build capacity, and foster self-governance. Australia invested in education and training programs to develop a local bureaucracy, judiciary, and police force. They also supported infrastructure development and worked towards promoting economic self-sufficiency in Papua New Guinea.
Finally, on September 16, 1975, Papua New Guinea gained full political independence from Australia. The process was marked by celebrations and the raising of the new country's flag, solidifying Papua New Guinea as an independent nation.
Australia took steps to prepare Papua New Guinea for political independence in a phased manner, starting in the 1960s. Here are the key steps:
1. The first major step towards independence occurred in 1963 with the establishment of a House of Assembly in Papua and New Guinea, which provided a platform for local representation and governance.
2. In 1971, the Australian government initiated a process of transferring self-government responsibilities to Papua New Guinea. The House of Assembly was expanded to become the Papua New Guinea House of Assembly, with powers to make laws and govern the country internally.
3. In 1973, the House of Assembly was transformed into the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea, giving the country more autonomy in decision-making processes.
4. Australia continued to assist Papua New Guinea in developing its political institutions and infrastructure. The Australian government focused on capacity building, education, and training programs to prepare the people and the government for independence.
5. On September 16, 1975, Papua New Guinea gained full political independence from Australia. The country became a sovereign state with its own government, constitution, and flag.
These steps allowed Papua New Guinea to gradually transition from a colonial territory under Australian administration to an independent nation.