The Australian government says it has no role in decisions on Papua New Guinea election issues such as updating the electoral roll.
PNG voters must dip a finger into indelible ink before voting, an effort to ensure they don't vote twice. Photo: RNZI/ Johnny Blades
A statement issued by Australia's High Commission to PNG says it is not involved in decisions around removal or addition of names from the roll, nor on how many ballot papers are delivered to electorates.
It said these decisions were always made by PNG Electoral Commission officials.
The statement came as the two-week polling period for PNG's five-yearly national election approaches its conclusion.
There have been widespread complaints in PNG about flaws in the electoral roll, and mishandling of ballot papers, with some criticism focussing on Australia's assistance.
Australia said it provided technical assistance and support for PNG elections where requested.
Papua New Guinea prime minister Peter O'Neill casts his vote in the 2017 election in his electorate of Ialibu-Pangia. Photo: PMO Media
This included placement of Australian Electoral Commission staff and other international experts to provide advice to PNG's Electoral Commission.
There was also assistance with training over 30,000 elections workers, including human rights training for police officers providing security for the elections.
Support for the development of new voter awareness campaigns.
The Australian Defence Force has also provided aircraft to assist in the delivery of over 40 tonnes of election materials to PNG's provinces.
Seventy observers from the Australian High Commission, including four members of Australia's federal parliament, will participate.
"We are also supporting the Australian National University and Transparency International PNG to independently observe the election across the country," the statement said.
The High Commission said PNG state agencies were responsible for the conduct of its elections.