During the period from 1966 to 1973, a unique unit of the Australian Army known as the Royal Australian Army Educational Corps (RAAEC), nicknamed the "Chalkies," played a significant role in both military and educational efforts in Papua New Guinea (PNG), then an Australian territory. The unit was composed primarily of about 300 young teachers conscripted for National Service, who were redirected from deployment in the Vietnam War to serve in New Guinea. Their mission was to raise the educational standards of indigenous soldiers in the Pacific Islands Regiment, a military formation comprised of Papua New Guinean troops.

The Pacific Islands Regiment had a distinguished wartime history, notably contributing to halting the Japanese advance toward Australia during World War II. However, the postwar period saw a shift toward preparing Papua New Guineans for leadership roles as the nation moved toward self-government and eventual independence. The Chalkies were integral to this transition, providing instruction at about the Year 10 level in subjects including mathematics, science, English, history, geography, and sports.

The educational initiative was driven by a combination of military and political foresight. Two regular Army brigadiers, along with then-Army Minister Malcolm Fraser, envisioned a PNG defense force that would be loyal to the emerging self-governance structures modeled on the Westminster parliamentary system. Education was seen not only as a means to improve the capabilities of indigenous soldiers but also as a way to instill a broader sense of national allegiance, beyond traditional clan ties known as "wantok" relationships. This approach aimed to reduce the risk of military interference in governance by ensuring that the defense force would support elected civilian authorities.

Recruits for the Chalkies underwent standard Army training before being assigned to posts in locations such as Port Moresby, Lae, and Wewak. They lived in barracks and held the rank of Sergeant; a small number with families were housed on base. Despite their primarily educational roles, they also participated in routine military activities, including patrols armed with weapons.

For the Chalkies, the experience provided a window into a society undergoing profound change. They developed close working relationships with PNG soldiers, many of whom showed strong professionalism and motivation. The teaching tours, typically lasting 12 to 18 months, left lasting impressions on both the instructors and their students, fostering connections that extended beyond military service.

After completing their tours, many of the Chalkies returned to civilian life, pursuing careers in various fields such as education, psychology, anthropology, and even music. Their contributions represent an often overlooked chapter in the broader history of PNG’s path to independence and the development of its military and civic institutions. While the combat achievements of the Pacific Islands Regiment during World War II are well commemorated, the postwar educational efforts by the Chalkies remain relatively underrecognized despite their lasting impact on the country’s leadership and stability.