Australia will provide all medical equipment and furniture for the new Moresby South Hospital, plus two advanced life support ambulances to boost health services in the capital.

According to a media release, the support will help the hospital open and begin serving the Moresby South and wider community in 2027.

The planned services include emergency care, outpatient care and up to ten labour and delivery beds, a significant boost to maternity services in Port Moresby.

Australia’s package will include X-ray machines, cold-chain fridges, beds and stretchers, along with furniture and equipment for clinical, administrative and waiting areas.

The St John Ambulance PNG will operate the two new ambulances to serve the hospital and broader Port Moresby population. Australia will also provide a year’s supply of medicines and consumables for the hospital and ambulances.

During a recent visit to the hospital, Australia’s Foreign Minister, Senator Penny Wong confirmed the support.

“I am delighted to confirm Australia will provide the furniture, fittings and equipment needed to help get this hospital up and running. Good health care matters to all of us. It matters to mothers and babies, so kids get the best possible start. It helps people get the treatment they need, and it builds stronger, healthier communities,” Foreign Minister Wong said.

Also present during the visit was Foreign Minister, Justin Tkatchenko who welcomed the partnership, saying the hospital would “look after you in your time of need”.

Australia said the support reflects its longstanding health partnership with Papua New Guinea and commitment to improving health outcomes, particularly for women and children.