Sports Diplomacy & Youth Development: Australia pledged $15.6m at the Pacific Islands Forum to boost high-performance sport for Pacific athletes heading toward Brisbane 2032, including support for PNG Chiefs and wider rugby league pathways. Fuel & FX Shock: PNG’s Petroleum and Energy Minister declared a 30-day state of emergency over fuel shortages and foreign exchange disruptions, directing BPNG to keep FX flowing to authorised dealers while requiring Puma Energy to maintain uninterrupted supply. Financial Protection for Households: Nasfund co-signed the PNG Empower Finance Code with BPNG and other institutions to tackle financial abuse and misuse, with extra focus on risks created by digital channels. Local Markets & Small Business: NCDC approved the reopening of Apo Street Market, formalising operations for 75 informal vendors with cleanliness and waste rules plus small daily fees. Disaster Readiness Gaps: UN and PNG health officials flagged uneven provincial disaster centre capacity—staffing, funding, infrastructure and equipment shortfalls—calling for stronger local institutions and investment. El Niño Pressure on Food & Farms: Coffee growers in the Highlands say El Niño drought is stalling ripening and demand better water support, while regional assessments warn of overlapping climate risks. Mining Community Benefits: The revised Hidden Valley CDA was signed, clearing the way for landowners and communities in Morobe to access development benefits from the Harmony Gold operation.