PNGOC has been in dialogue with Bowls PNG since February 2019 after members raised concerns over the legal structure of the organisation as an incorporated private company.

Members argued that this set-up did not represent the best interests of the country's lawn bowling fraternity.

After an investigation, PNGOC recommended Bowls PNG re-established the federation as an incorporated association, rather than a private company of individual shareholders.

After Bowls PNG failed to act on the recommendations or convince PNGOC why it should remain as a private company, the PNGOC Executive Board agreed to suspend Bowls PNG's membership for six months.

The sanction means Bowls PNG will not be allowed to attend the 2020 PNGOC Annual General Assembly or cast a vote and will not receive any funding from the PNGOC.

The suspension will be lifted providing criteria set out by the PNGOC is met, including dissolving the company Bowls PNG and incorporating under the Associations Incorporation Act 1966.

It also has to provide evidence that the country's lawn bowling community is included in its efforts as part of the incorporation process, and keep the PNGOC informed of its progress regularly.

If it does not meet the criteria by November 20, the organisation could be expelled from PNGOC.

In a statement the PNGOC said: "With a focus on good governance, we urge all parties to work together and fulfil the requirements for the best interest of the sport, its members and athletes."

A day after the PNGOC imposed its sanction, the World Bowls Tour (WBT) announced the suspension of the national federation, until it meets the demands issued by PNGOC.

The WBT said all requirements issued by the PNGOC should be "actioned as a matter of extreme urgency" and has requested that its is also kept updated on any progress.