Queensland in fight to free PNG from TB

Queensland will help Papua New Guinea in its fight to combat tuberculosis and other diseases, by contributing support to the construction of a new hospital at Daru in the Western Province of the country.

Premier Campbell Newman discussed the hospital with Prime Minister Peter O’Neill in Port Moresby and said he would also consider opportunities for nursing staff in the country.

“Queensland taxpayers may not know that currently it’s costing them $14 million a year to look after PNG nationals who come into our state,” Mr Newman said.

“That location, in Daru, is important, because it deals specifically with people who have diseases and who are currently coming into Queensland for treatment.

“We only receive about $4 million back from the commonwealth, so anything that we can do to provide support to the hospital, where locals can get help, is in the ultimate interests of Queenslanders.”

Mr Newman said initially PNG wanted technical support to build the hospital but the prospects could expand on its completion.

“Providing this technical expertise will come at no cost to the Queensland taxpayer,” he said.

“We have also discussed nursing staff opportunities here in Papua New Guinea and we will continue to explore that with them.

“Obviously, we will talk with the nurses union as well.”

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said it’s important to build on the effective TB treatment regime that is already established at Daru.

“By providing the best treatment in the home communities, the outcomes will improve,” Mr Springborg said.

“To be effective, TB treatment must run its full course and that is undermined when sufferers travel in search of better treatment options.

“This is a difficult issue and there are local problems that must be addressed as part of the solution.

“However, by working together with the PNG Government and the medical teams on Daru, I am confident we can make a strong, positive contribution.”

[ENDS] 15 May 2013

Media Contact: Premier’s Office 3225 4500