BREAKING: Nathan Cleary Launches $5 Million Free Medical Outreach in Papua New Guinea and Underprivileged Australian Communities, July 1–11, 2025 — Over 500 to Receive Surgeries, Screenings, and Medications
In an inspiring move that blends humanitarian outreach with community leadership, NRL superstar Nathan Cleary has announced the launch of a $5 million free medical outreach program set to run from July 1 to July 11, 2025. The initiative will deliver life-changing healthcare services to underserved communities in Papua New Guinea and disadvantaged areas across Australia.
According to the official statement released by the Cleary Foundation, the campaign aims to reach over 500 individuals with services ranging from general medical screenings and health education to more complex surgical procedures and essential medications. The initiative will be executed in partnership with a network of volunteer Australian and PNG-based doctors, nurses, and public health workers.
“This is about giving back to the people who inspire us through their resilience and strength,” Cleary said at the press conference held at Penrith Stadium. “Health is a basic right, not a privilege. If I can use my platform and resources to help just one family avoid unnecessary suffering, then it’s worth every cent and second.”
A Mission Rooted in Empathy
Although Nathan Cleary is not of Papua New Guinean descent, he has long been vocal about his admiration for the nation’s vibrant rugby culture and the spirit of its people. His earlier visit to PNG for an NRL community event reportedly left a lasting impact on him. It was then that he witnessed first-hand the healthcare struggles faced by rural and remote populations.
The initiative’s Australia component will focus on indigenous and low-income communities in Western Sydney and parts of rural New South Wales, areas where healthcare access remains a challenge despite urban proximity.
A 10-Day Health Blitz
The 10-day outreach will kick off in Port Moresby, where a temporary mobile clinic will be set up with local partners. From there, a team of 50 medical professionals will rotate through clinics and outreach posts across selected PNG provinces and later return to Australia to complete the campaign.
Services will include:
General health check-ups
Pediatric and maternal care
Minor and major surgical interventions
Vision and dental screenings
Distribution of essential medications and health supplies
Mental health counseling and awareness sessions
Local health workers in each region will receive on-site training, ensuring the outreach leaves behind a legacy of knowledge and empowerment.
Praise and Partnerships
The initiative has already gained the endorsement of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the PNG Ministry of Health, both of which have offered logistical support. Several non-profit organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières and Red Cross Australia, have joined hands with the Cleary Foundation to expand the program’s reach and efficiency.
“This isn’t a publicity stunt,” said Dr. Amelia Grant, Chief Medical Officer of the outreach. “Nathan isn’t just writing checks—he’s involved in every detail, asking the right questions, making real connections. That kind of leadership is rare in the sports world.”
A Legacy in the Making
Cleary, only 27, is already redefining what it means to be a modern athlete. While his on-field achievements speak for themselves, it’s his growing legacy off the field that may end up making the most impact.
As the countdown to July begins, anticipation is building not just among fans, but among the hundreds of individuals and families who will soon gain access to potentially life-saving care—courtesy of a rugby star determined to make a difference far beyond the stadium.