The Community Governance and Economics Branch of the Community Development Division has responsibility for disability policy development within the Department.

One of the major achievements achieved by the Section is the National Disability Policy (NDP) which has been developed collaboratively with stakeholders locally and through participation in regional conferences.

The Section anticipates completing and launching the NDP in early 2008, pending a National Executive Council decision endorsing this first ever national framework for persons with disabilities in Papua New Guinea, and amongst other Melanesian and Polynesian neighbours.

The NDP is an inclusive policy and based on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Biwako Millennium Framework (a regional framework for persons with disabilities), the Medium Term Development Strategy and the National Integrated Community Development Policy.

The Section has carried out work in relation to the NDP in provinces including Morobe, Milne Bay, East New Britain, Manus, Eastern Highlands and the National Capital District; and supports capacity development of the National Board for Disabled Persons. 

The Section was also responsible for hosting a week-long Regional Training Seminar on Capacity Building for Self Help Organisations of Persons With Disabilities that attracted participants from 18 countries and was opened by the Prime Minister, Grand Chief Michael Somare in February 2007.