A newly refurbished ambulance station in Lae was officially opened today, promising better and faster emergency medical help for the people of Lae and surrounding districts.
The upgrade, a significant infrastructure improvement, was made possible through the partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia via the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP).
The revamped station features modern facilities and improved security, replacing older buildings to better support ambulance operations in Morobe Province. Since its establishment in 2022, the St John Lae Ambulance Station has already assisted over 20,000 people, with the number of emergency responses steadily increasing each year, reaching over 10,000 in 2024.
National St John Ambulance (NStJA) Chief Executive Matthew Cannon highlighted the station’s crucial role, stating that the Lae Ambulance Station is the second busiest within the National St John Ambulance Service network, playing a vital role in emergency response for Lae and surrounding districts in Morobe Province.
He added that the upgraded facility will improve crew safety, operational readiness, and the quality of care delivered to the community.
The project is expected to significantly benefit the community by ensuring quicker response times and better quality care during emergencies.
Mr. Cannon also expressed gratitude to the Australian Government, saying that this project represents a major step forward in the efforts to enhance ambulance services across Papua New Guinea.
“We are immensely grateful to the Australian Government through the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership for their continued partnership and support in strengthening emergency medical systems for the people of Morobe.”
Morobe Provincial Health Authority Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kipas Binga also welcomed the upgrade, acknowledging NStJA as a valued partner in delivering health services in Lae and the surrounding districts of Morobe Province and expressed his anticipation for continued collaboration.
PNG-Australia Policing Partnership Assistant Commissioner, Jamie Strauss noted his pleasure that the partnership could support initiatives that directly benefit communities.
The successful completion of the Lae Ambulance Station upgrade underscores the positive impact of collaborative efforts in strengthening essential public services in Papua New Guinea.
