The Australian Government is further supporting HIV service delivery in Papua New Guinea by donating a fleet of vehicles to the Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS), enabling expanded community outreach and improved access to care.
This contribution is delivered through the PNG–Australia Partnership and reflects Australia’s commitment to improving health outcomes for all Papua New Guineans.
The vehicles will support outreach services that include community-based HIV testing, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and referrals to other clinics and social services.
The donation comes at a critical time, following the declaration of a national HIV emergency by the Government of Papua New Guinea on 26 June 2025. The vehicles are being distributed to CCHS and Key Population Advocacy Consortium (KPAC) clinics in the National Capital District and Central Province.
The fleet includes:
- 1 x 15-Seater Bus for St Therese Clinic, Hohola
- 1 x 15-Seater Bus for St Paul’s Clinic, Hohola
- 1 x 4-Door Land Cruiser Pick-Up for Veifa Clinic (Central Province)
- 1 x Toyota Hilux for CCHS National Office
- 1 x 15-Seater Bus for KPAC Sunset Hub
Notably, the allocation of a vehicle to Veifa Clinic in Central Province helps to address the challenge of geographic isolation, enabling healthcare workers to reach people living with HIV in remote areas.
Building on Australia’s already significant support for HIV services in PNG, this new element of partnership reflects a shared commitment to compassion, equity, and the belief that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare—no matter where they live.
Quotes for attribution:
Minister for Health, Hon. Elias Kapavore:
“HIV is a disease of inequality. We need to support and empower those most impacted.”
“It is time for all of us to step up. I personally commit to raising this issue with my fellow ministers and parliamentarians and ensuring the urgent allocation of resources to protect our people – especially the next generation of Papua New Guineans.”
Australian High Commissioner Mr Ewen McDonald:
“These vehicles will help frontline health workers reach communities that often face barriers to access, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV.”
“Australia is proud to support CCHS in delivering inclusive and responsive healthcare.”
Cardinal Sir John Ribat:
“Reliable transport is a game-changer for our clinics.”
“These vehicles will help our teams expand testing, improve treatment adherence, and reach communities that otherwise remain cut off from vital services.”
Ends.
A group shot at the presentation of the vehicles.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100