PAPUA New Guinea has taken a significant step toward improving the quality, consistency and compassion of care provided to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), with the completion of a first-of-its-kind national training package for health workers.
The standardised in-service training package has been finalised by the National Department of Health in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, with support from the Australian Government.
Designed to align with national standards, frontline realities and international best practice, the package aims to strengthen health workers’ ability to respond to GBV survivors safely, consistently and with dignity. Once formally endorsed, the training materials will be piloted nationwide to support the delivery of clinical care, psychosocial support and effective referral pathways—helping ensure survivors can access appropriate services and justice.
The pilot, led by the National Department of Health, will also inform refinements to the training and delivery approach, ensuring the materials are practical and relevant for health workers operating in urban, rural and remote settings.
Dr Mark Raphael, Manager of Population Health at the National Department of Health, said the initiative reflects the department’s commitment to improving survivor-centred care.
“As a department, NDoH is committed to ensuring that victim-survivors of GBV receive appropriate, timely and compassionate care,” Dr Raphael said. “This new training package will equip health workers across PNG with practical tools to respond to survivors safely and consistently.”
Australia reaffirmed its ongoing partnership with PNG, supporting efforts to build a safer, healthier and more inclusive future for all.