China–PNG ties: China says it will deepen alignment between the Belt and Road Initiative and PNG’s Connect PNG Programme, and welcomes PNG to join the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, with assistance described as coming “without political conditions.” Human rights: The UN praised PNG’s soft launch of a National Human Rights Policy, urging real implementation at provincial, district, ward and village levels. Justice access: PNG’s Supreme Court officially opened circuit sittings in Vanimo for the first time in nearly 50 years, bringing top-level services closer to West Sepik communities. Gender & empowerment: Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality visits PNG to back women’s leadership, economic empowerment and responses to gender-based violence, including stops at women-focused centres and community sport. Defence & careers: PM Marape says preparations are underway for qualified Papua New Guineans to pursue Australian Defence Force careers under the PNG–Australia Mutual Defence Treaty, with assessments required. Culture & youth: The Queen of Paradise Orchestra in Vanimo farewells two students accepted for classical music study in the Philippines, while Ambunti’s Sepik River Crocodile and Arts Festival returns 5–7 August. Digital identity: Western Pacific University students win top honours at PNG’s National Digital ID Hackathon using SevisPass, including a jobs-matching platform. Sports with a social aim: The PNG Chiefs’ NRL push is framed as more than sport, with funding tied to keeping kids in school and building grassroots pathways. Women recognised: Westpac Outstanding Women Awards highlight seven PNG leaders, with Stella Ipang taking overall winner for work advancing GEDSI in immunisation. Crime & poverty: Police in Lae link rising crime to poverty and note growing involvement of teenagers, young children and women, urging community cooperation with law enforcement.