A groundbreaking ceremony was held in Lae today, where Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. John Rosso MP, and Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, Mr Ewen McDonald, officially marked the commencement of construction on a new pharmacy at ANGAU Memorial Provincial Hospital.
The new facility will support the safe and efficient management of medicines, while improving pharmacy dispensing services for patients across Morobe Province and the wider Momase region.
As a key referral hospital, ANGAU hospital plays a critical role in delivering advanced care to thousands of Papua New Guineans.
This up to AUD 3 million investment builds on Australia’s long-term support to ANGAU Memorial Provincial Hospital and will help maintain continuity of care during the redevelopment of the Gware building (ANGAU’s former Emergency Department).
Construction of the new pharmacy is expected to be completed in late 2026.
The project will also support local jobs and businesses during construction, creating opportunities for workers and suppliers in Morobe Province.
At the event, the Hon John Rosso MP said, “This project demonstrates the long-term PNG-Australia cooperation in strengthening health infrastructure. The new pharmacy will strengthen ANGAU’s pharmaceutical services and overall patient care and delivery. Ultimately, the greatest beneficiaries of this project will be the patients and families who rely on ANGAU Memorial Provincial Hospital every day.”
Secretary for Health, Mr Pasco Kase said ‘“A strong health system depends on much more than doctors, nurses, and hospital buildings. It depends on reliable access to safe, quality medicines and efficient pharmaceutical services, supporting healthcare workers and improving access and service delivery for patient.”
Australian High Commissioner and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, Mr Ewen McDonald, said, “Australia is pleased to partner with Papua New Guinea to deliver this important health infrastructure.
“The new ANGAU Pharmacy will provide a fit-for -purpose facility that supports the safe, reliable and efficient dispensing services of medicine.”
“It reflects our shared focus on practical solutions that strengthen pharmacy services while supporting ANGAU’s continued growth and development into the future making a real difference for communities.”
The new standalone facility will provide a modern, purpose-built space for dispensing medicines, with improved storage, workflow and cold chain reliability.
It will provide a safer and more accessible environment for patients and staff, including a more patient-centred design that supports dignity, privacy, and improved access for all patients, including people with disability.
The ANGAU Pharmacy project is delivered through the Papua New Guinea Australia Partnership, in collaboration with the Morobe Provincial Health Authority and ANGAU Memorial Provincial Hospital.
ENDS
PNG and Australian representatives mark the start of construction for the new ANGAU Pharmacy in Lae. From left : Mr Robin Calistus, Lae City Authority; Ms Nellie McLay, Morobe Provincial Health Authority Board ; Mr Pascoe Kase, Department of Health; Hon Rainbo Paita, Morobe Provincial Government; Hon John Rosso, Government of Papua New Guinea; Australian High Commissioner and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, Mr Ewen McDonald ; and Dr Kipas Binga, Morobe Provincial Health Authority.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100