AFAO has strongly endorsed the Federal Government’s $19.7 million Budget commitment to expand access to HIV testing, treatment and information, and better support the HIV workforce, as we push to end transmission in Australia.
The additional funding will be allocated in the 2023-24 Budget. The package secures access to HIV treatment for people who are ineligible for Medicare. It provides additional support for peak organisations involved in research, policy and advocacy, including AFAO, and the National Association of People with HIV in Australia (NAPWHA).
Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations that deliver testing, treatment and care services for blood borne viruses and sexually transmitted infections will also receive support. Funding is also provided for a South Australian HIV testing vending machine pilot, the Emen8 HIV information website and HIV Online Learning Australia, a critical resource for the HIV workforce.
AFAO CEO, Darryl O’Donnell, said the package of support was a significant boost.
“We are charting a path to the end of Australian HIV transmission and this commitment makes that destination clearer,” O’Donnell said.
“It is reassuring that the Government has fully grasped the importance of leaving no community behind with its commitment to expand access to HIV treatment for people who are ineligible for Medicare.
“Advocacy, research and policy development are absolutely critical to ending HIV transmission and we are greatly encouraged to see the Government recognise this with its support for peak organisations involved in the national response.
“The support for innovative solutions and resources, such as the successful HIV test vending machine and online portals such as Emen8 and HIV Online Learning Australia is very welcome.
“Australia has consistently led the world in its HIV response, due to the powerful partnership between community, the medical profession and government. This package of support continues that approach and allows us to realistically advance toward the end of Australian HIV transmission.”
