Australia has made great progress in preventing HIV and supporting people living with HIV.

New HIV diagnoses have fallen over time. Australia is also getting closer to the goal of eliminating HIV transmission as a public health issue.
But we are not there yet.

HIV treatment has changed

HIV treatment has improved a lot over the past few decades. Today, people living with HIV can take medication that keeps the virus at very low levels in the body. When someone takes their treatment as prescribed and has an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass HIV on through sex; this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmissible). People living with HIV who are on effective treatment can live long and healthy lives.

Prevention is also improving

There are now more ways to prevent HIV. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medication that can help prevent HIV. It is highly effective when taken as prescribed. HIV testing has also become easier, with options such as community testing and HIV self-tests helping people know their HIV status.

Stigma is still a problem

Even though living with HIV looks very different to previously, some people still have old ideas about HIV.

People living with HIV often experience HIV- related stigma and discrimination. This may prevent them from telling others they have HIV or getting tested, due to worry or fear. Everyone learning the facts about HIV can help reduce stigma. HIV is a health condition that can be treated. People living with HIV can have relationships, families and fulfil healthy and long lives.

Making sure everyone has access to information

Australia has made strong progress, however some communities can still face barriers to HIV testing, prevention and treatment. For example, people who migrate to Australia may experience additional barriers, including a lack of in-language health information or access to HIV testing and prevention support. Ensuring services are welcoming and culturally safe can help make sure everyone can access the care they need.

We still have work to do

Australia is close to an important milestone in the fight against HIV. But reaching the goal of eliminating HIV transmission will need continued effort. This includes making testing and prevention easier to access, providing culturally appropriate information and services, and an ongoing commitment to challenge HIV stigma and discrimination. Everyone should be able to access HIV information, testing, prevention and support, regardless of how they identify.

Read more: Read the ABC News article: Australia’s fight against HIV is not over