As the final extension deadline for National Federations to settle their levy fees rapidly approaches, the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) has urgently called upon the Government of Papua New Guinea for immediate support. This plea comes amidst the varying degrees of levy fee payments by National Federations, a crucial funding component for Team PNG's participation in the upcoming Pacific Games. The deadline is set for the Monday the 6th of November. In November 2022, PNGOC invoiced National Federations for athlete and official levies, allowing a full year to secure these necessary funds. The PNGOC gave a final deadline for payment of levies on September 27th to all 21 sporting games. To date, only five sports, which are Boxing, Netball, Swimming, Tennis and Va’a, have paid their levy in full, while six sports have covered 20- 50 percent of their levy payment. However, eight sports have yet to contribute any fees at all. This situation places the participation of many athletes and the success of Team PNG at the Pacific Games in jeopardy. Chairperson of the PNG Athletes Commission, Ryan Pini, has highlighted a crucial issue; the responsibility of raising these levies falls primarily on the shoulders of the National Federation Executives, not the athletes. "Athletes should not be burdened with paying more than 40 percent (K800) of the levy fee if they are requested to contribute. This underscores a significant systemic issue within the sporting community regarding funding and support.” Given that the Government Grant has always been a fundamental part of funding and supporting Team PNG's extensive budget, its absence this year raises severe concerns. Without this crucial support, PNGOC as a last resort may have to reduce the size of the team after the 6th of November levy extension deadline, potentially dashing the hopes of numerous dedicated athletes and diminishing the nation’s medal chances. With Team PNG's departure scheduled for Monday the 13th of November, time is of the essence. Therefore, PNGOC has urged that the Government provide the necessary assistance to Team PNG, comprising 41 teams across 21 sports, including men's, women's, mixed, and para teams. This funding is not just a financial investment; it is an investment in the athletes, national pride, and the nation’s cultural legacy. In addition, the Pacific Games represents a pinnacle for many of our athletes, offering a platform where the majority of Papua New Guinea's sportsmen and sportswomen can showcase their talents on an international stage. It is a critical steppingstone for many, with only a select few progressing to higher levels of competition like the Commonwealth and Olympic Games. Meanwhile, President of PNGOC, Sir John Dawanincura, has underscored the gravity of the situation stating that the Pacific Games is not just a major sporting event but is a celebration of the national talent and spirit. “With Team PNG's departure, the absence of Government funding would not only be a devastating blow to the morale of our athletes and officials, but also to our nation's medal prospects."