_#_Type: parliamentary democracy

_#_Capital: Port Moresby

_#_Administrative divisions: 20 provinces; Central, Chimbu, Eastern
Highlands, East New Britain, East Sepik, Enga, Gulf, Madang, Manus, Milne
Bay, Morobe, National Capital, New Ireland, Northern, North Solomons,
Sandaun, Southern Highlands, Western, Western Highlands, West New Britain

_#_Independence: 16 September 1975 (from UN trusteeship under Australian administration)

_#_Constitution: 16 September 1975

_#_Legal system: based on English common law

_#_National holiday: Independence Day, 16 September (1975)

_#_Executive branch: British monarch, governor general, prime minister, deputy prime minister, National Executive Council (cabinet)

_#_Legislative branch: unicameral National Parliament (sometimes referred to as the House of Assembly)

_#_Judicial branch: Supreme Court