LEEA’s perspective at PNG Industrial and Mining Resources
On Global Lifting Awareness Day (#GLAD2026) – a day to celebrate the lifting industry – I was, fortuitously, in Papua New Guinea for the PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference in Port Moresby, writes Justin Boehm, LEEA Regional Manager – Australia & New Zealand. At this event I had the opportunity to give LEEA’s perspective on global best practice and the importance of competence in high-risk lifting operations.
I also joined a panel discussion on developing PNG’s workforce, with a strong focus on building local capability, local confidence and local authority across the mining and industrial sectors.
Competence is not just about training. It is about giving people the knowledge, skills and judgement to work safely, make informed decisions and support industry development - critically important not only in the developing world, but globally. It was the perfect place to mark #GLAD2026.
PNG shouldn't always be looking to Australia for the answers. I said it on stage at the PNG Industrial + Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference – and I stand by it.
Australia has built a strong safety culture in the resources sector. But it's not the global benchmark. In the UK, LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) mandates inspection requirements for lifting equipment that Australia does not yet require. Yet those same standards are prescribed across major mining and oil and gas jurisdictions worldwide.
PNG is competing for global talent but its greatest resource is home-grown. This means being willing to make hard decisions today, even if it creates short-term friction with the Australian supply chain, because the payoff is a safer, stronger and more competitive industry tomorrow. Raising the bar isn't about going it alone. It's about being ready for the world.
