The province covers an area of 11,157 km2, and has a population of 579,825 (2011 census).

[2][3] Eastern Highland Province had a population of 432,972 (PNG citizens) and 1,173 (non-citizens) in the 2000 Census.

[4] The province was governed by a decentralised provincial administration, headed by a Regional Member, from 1977 to 1995.

Following reforms taking effect that year, the national government reassumed some powers, and the role of Regional Member was replaced by a position of Governor, to be held by the winner of the province-wide seat in the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea.

[5][6] The province and each district is represented by a Member of the National Parliament.