Papua New Guinea (PNG) has one of the highest rates of avoidable blindness in the Pacific.
In an effort to reduce these statistics and ensure that more Papua New Guineans have access to eye health services, Australia is contributing PGK7.42 million to support the equipment and fit-out needs of a new Papua New Guinea Centre for Eye Health to be located at Port Moresby General Hospital.
Australia’s support will also support the maintenance of this equipment for the next five years.
Australia is pleased to support this initiative born from a partnership between the Government of PNG, National Department of Health, The University of PNG School of Medicine and Health Science, and The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ (FHFNZ).
The Fred Hollows Foundation (FHF) have made positive and far-reaching contributions to the region over many decades and Australia is committed to playing a constructive role in the region as a neighbour and partner, including through making significant investments to support Papua New Guinea achieve universal health coverage.
The PNG National Eye Health Plan (2024–2029) emphasises the importance of increasing the availability of integrated people-centred eye care for all Papua New Guineans.
Australia is also supporting this endeavour through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) to building the capacity of the eye health workforce, equipping eye clinics in remote and regional areas, and supporting patient access to eye care services through outreach, through a grant commitment of almost PGK1.18 million.
New Zealand High Commissioner His Excellency Peter Zwart, PNG Health Minister Hon. Elias Kapavore and Australian High Commission Health Counsellor Miriam Carter breaking ground to officiate the construction of the Papua New Guinea Centre for Eye Health.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100