BREAKING: Nathan Cleary Launches Free Medical Outreach in Papua New Guinea and Underprivileged Australian Communities with Over 500 to Receive Surgeries Screenings and Medications…………..
May 16, 2025 – Sydney, Australia
In a remarkable show of humanitarian leadership, NRL star Nathan Cleary has announced the launch of a large-scale medical outreach initiative aimed at bringing life-changing healthcare services to underserved communities in Papua New Guinea and remote parts of Australia. The outreach is expected to provide free surgeries, screenings, and essential medications to over 500 people in the initial phase alone.
Cleary, the Penrith Panthers halfback and three-time Premiership winner, revealed the plan during a press conference in Sydney this morning. Flanked by healthcare professionals and community leaders, the 27-year-old athlete detailed how his foundation, The Cleary Impact Project, is partnering with local and international medical teams to deliver much-needed healthcare to those without access.
“Growing up in a country like Australia, I’ve always been aware of the privilege we often take for granted — especially when it comes to health,” Cleary said. “This project is about giving back, about making real change where it’s most needed, and standing up for communities that are too often forgotten.”
The initiative will begin in late May, with a team of volunteer surgeons, general practitioners, nurses, and public health specialists traveling to remote villages in Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands and several Aboriginal communities in Australia’s Northern Territory. Clinics will offer services ranging from cataract surgeries and dental care to maternal health screenings, childhood immunizations, and distribution of chronic disease medications.
Medical supplies and equipment for the project are being provided through collaborations with global health NGOs and Australian medical supply companies. The project has also received logistical support from the Australian Defence Force, which will assist in transporting personnel and materials to some of the most inaccessible regions.
One of the standout features of the outreach is its sustainability model. Alongside direct care, the program will conduct health education sessions and provide training for local community health workers. This dual focus aims to leave a lasting impact long after the medical teams have departed.
Dr. Mele Atoa, a senior physician involved in the mission, praised Cleary’s efforts. “It’s not just about the operations or check-ups. It’s about restoring dignity, enabling opportunity, and building health resilience in these communities,” she said.
This initiative comes at a time when access to basic healthcare remains a critical challenge for many in rural PNG and Indigenous Australian communities. According to recent health reports, preventable diseases and lack of medical infrastructure continue to plague these regions, often resulting in avoidable deaths.
Cleary’s foundation is already calling for additional support from the sporting and business sectors to scale the project further.
“We’ve only just begun,” Cleary said. “My dream is to see this outreach grow beyond the hundreds to the thousands — to truly bridge the healthcare gap wherever we can.”
For media inquiries or to support the Cleary Impact Project, visit clearyimpact.org.
