The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), alongside Australian and New Zealand forces and supported by provincial health services, conducted a Medical Civil Aid Program (MEDCAP) in Central Province from 20th April to 1st May 2026.

The initiative delivered primary health engagement, including health education, community liaison, and limited clinical services, targeting communities with reduced access to routine healthcare.

The MEDCAP visited seven remote villages, providing PNGDF personnel with practical experience in trauma care, tropical diseases, vaccinations, and maternal health education.

The operation also supported specialized first aid qualifications, strengthening PNGDF capability for future exercises and operations.

PNGDF Warrant Officer Jerry Aihi, the Senior Instructor of the Medical Wing, expressed hope at seeing similar activities in the future.

“We hope to see more remote places that we have never seen. Then we will have the experience, and also our allied teams will have the experience in Papua New Guinea so we can work together, side by side.”

Australia’s Defence Cooperation Program (DCP) aims to foster interoperability between the PNGDF and the Australian Defence Force (ADF), while enhancing health service delivery to remote communities.

Major Campbell Thelander, DCP Training Staff Officer stated that this was an example of Australia and Papua New Guinea working together to deliver health support and health service into the community.

“This is interoperability in action, building important links at the grass roots level and understanding the challenges, issues and environments that they work in.”

“That exchange of cultural ideas is valuable when we come to work together later.”