Trojan et al,
First check my profile - I have no axe to grind. I currently train ADF pilots.
The ADF, aircrew included, are at the beck and call of the Government to go anywhere at any time to do what ever is required in peace and war. The current day ADF aircrew are extremely well trained, closely supervised and risk managed. Can you imagine the CH47 crews saying "sorry can't go to Afghanistan - haven't been there!" a place, I would suggest, that is a little more hostile than PNG both from the point of view of ambient conditions (DA, sandstorms so thick that you can't see your hand in front of your face) and a small matter of less than friendly locals armed with a bit more than bows and arrows.
Yes ADF aircraft do crash with distressing results - that's because, inter alia, the boundaries are further out there. I could suggest that there should be no pilot error accidents in the civvy world - but, hey I've been there, I know what commercial pressures, ego and pride can do!
I would have no hesitation in giving this and similar tasks to ADF aircrew.
GAGS
E86