Australia is reaffirming its shared commitment with Papua New Guinea (PNG) to reduce snakebite deaths nationwide and to strengthen sustainable, nationally led responses.
Representatives of PNG’s National Department of Health (NDoH), the Australian High Commission, CSL Seqirus and St John Ambulance PNG recently convened for the PNG Snakebite Partnership Annual Meeting.
A key focus of the meeting was the transition towards full integration of snakebite management into PNG’s national health system.
The current Memorandum of Agreement for antivenom supply between the NDoH and CSL Seqirus runs through April 2027, providing an important window to strengthen systems and support a smooth transition.
Targeted support enabled the distribution of 560 antivenom vials to high-burden provinces in 2025, including Central Province, Western Province and the National Capital District, where Papuan taipans and death adders are prevalent.
The Partnership reached over 70 health facilities across 15 provinces, expanding access to lifesaving antivenom and strengthening frontline clinical care.
Since its establishment, the Partnership has saved more than 3,000 lives. Children account for approximately 25 per cent of patients treated, underscoring the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations.
St John Ambulance PNG’s Dr Arabella Koliwan said, “Snakebite remains a serious threat, particularly in rural and remote communities where timely access to care can be limited.”
“By strengthening the capacity of health workers and improving community awareness, more lives can be saved,” said Dr Koliwan.
National Department of Health, Dr Dora Lenturut-Katal says that the partnership continues to prosper.
“We are pleased to see the strong results delivered through the Snakebite Partnership and value the support provided by the Government of Australia, CSL Seqirus and St John Ambulance PNG. This partnership demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained collaboration and shared commitment to improving health outcomes,” said Dr Lenturut-Katal.
The Partnership continues to prioritise reliable antivenom supply chains alongside building the capability of frontline health workers.
Efforts are also expanding beyond clinical settings to strengthen prevention, community awareness and early response in high-risk communities.
Through the PNG-Australia Snakebite Partnership, Australia is supporting PNG to strengthen health systems, improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment, and reduce preventable deaths.
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Participants at the Snakebite Partnership Meeting.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100