We are a group of individuals working towards providing improved access to quality health care, with a strong focus on sustainability and education
After the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004, a group of Australian doctors flew to Sri Lanka to supply devastated communities with medical equipment and medication. This was how the Australia Sri Lanka Medical Aid Team was formed. The crisis is long gone, but the need has not. We continue to support less privileged communities in Sri Lankan, and bolster its public health system.
How do we help
We pay for our own travel and accommodation, and raise money in Australia to buy medical supplies in Sri Lanka for medical clinics and hospitals. Every dollar we raise is used to improve the lives of less fortunate people in Sri Lanka. Our team is made up of doctors and other health practitioners, their families and friends. We have made lasting friendships in Sri Lanka and Australia, and enjoy helping others.
Team members contribute funds and equipment for hospital and community projects, and work at clinics themselves. We use donations to transport medical equipment to Sri Lanka. Donations are also used to buy equipment in Sri Lanka to support the local economy and make sure the medical instruments can be serviced.
What have we done
AUSLMAT has transported more than $8 million worth of equipment to Sri Lanka and provided medication to thousands of under-privileged people. We have strong support from the Australian Sri Lankan community who help us overcome bureaucratic and language barriers.
What do we continue to do
AUSLMAT visits Sri Lanka generally each year (sometimes more often). Each visit includes delivery of donated medical equipment and other supplies, hospital lectures, ward rounds, and clinics in remote areas and orphanages. The doctors are accompanied by medical students and nurses seeking to broaden their experience, families, friends and other supporters from many walks of life. Team members pay all their own expenses (including airfares, accommodation and food).
