“You could join more than 1,800 Papua New Guineans who have participated in the program and returned home with new ideas and knowledge and the ability to make a significant contribution to PNG as leaders in their fields,” Ms Stokes said.

“PNG sees the tangible benefits with Australia Awards alumni holding leadership positions in PNG’s public service and private enterprise. Alumni are leading change as senior managers, business owners, and professional throughout PNG.

“I strongly encourage women to apply. Australia is committed to at least 50% of the Australian Awards being awarded to women.

The Australia Awards program aims to contribute to PNG’s long term development needs by awarding scholarships in areas that align with PNG’s development partnership with Australia including health, education and law and justice.

Awardees can gain an internationally recognised qualification from an Australian university, build links with Australia and develop leadership potential.

The Australia Awards Scholarships are competitive with selection based on academic ability, leadership and employment record, the developmental benefit of the proposed field of study and preparedness to study in Australia.

More than 700 applications were received for last year’s intake of 150 awardees who are this month departing for their study assignments in Australia.

Applications close on 30April 2014. Potential applicants can visit www.australiaawards.org.pg for more information about application requirements.