THE MINISTER FOR STATE, Francis Potape, has warned the PNG government that more money is needed to ensure next year's national elections run smoothly.

Mr Potape said, of the $95 million the election will cost, the government has indicated that $30 million has been set aside but so far only $10 million has been released.

He said the Electoral Commission has not been able to work on an electronic counting system or electronic voter identification.

"Communications, security and safety did not receive any appropriations this year despite being critical activities," he said.

Polling for the 109 seats in PNG's parliament is due to start on 30 June next year.

Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation