- Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs
- The Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Pacific Island Affairs
The Albanese Government is nearly tripling our investment in HIV services in Papua New Guinea (PNG), following the PNG Government’s declaration of a HIV emergency in June this year.
Working in partnership with the PNG Government, churches, the private sector, and others, Australia is increasing its annual HIV development funding to almost $10 million this financial year to safeguard the Papua New Guinean population.
Australia’s increased support will focus on preventing transmission by increasing awareness and testing, strengthening surveillance, and supporting expanded access to prevention measures.
The announcement was made during a visit by the Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Nita Green to the St Therese HIV clinic to mark the completion of their recent renovation.
Australia is investing in the renovation of three HIV clinics in Port Moresby, including the St Therese, to ensure a safer, more dignified space for people to receive counselling and care.
Recognising the vulnerability of young people, Australia will support youth-led education and outreach programs to help reduce new infections.
Our programming will also include tailored services for women and girls, who are disproportionately affected by HIV.
Today's announcement adds to ongoing Australian Government initiatives to support the Pacific in its fight against HIV, including partnerships with UNAIDS, Health Equity Matters, and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:
"Australia and Papua New Guinea are close neighbours, friends and strategic allies, and we support each other in times of need.
"As HIV rates in the Pacific continue to rise, we recognise the increasing importance of working together to safeguard our region."
Attributable to Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy:
"Rising rates of HIV in the Pacific are threatening lives and livelihoods.
"Australia is committed to working side-by-side and step-by-step with PNG to improve health outcomes.
"This support complements Australia’s broader commitment to health security in the Pacific, working with regional partners to address cross-border health challenges."
Attributable to Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Nita Green:
"It is an honour to re-open the St Therese HIV Clinic in Port Moresby – Australia’s support for this renovation is a symbol of our steadfast commitment to Papua New Guinea’s health sector.
"Australia shares a desire with the Government of PNG to drive better health outcomes across PNG.
"Together, we stand as partners in responding to the HIV situation in PNG, with urgency, compassion, and resolve."