ASHM welcomes news from the federal budget of a $126.5 million investment over two years to support the prevention, testing and treatment of blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and STIs, alongside a $43.9 million investment to implement the recommendations of the HIV Taskforce.
This announcement represents a significant investment by the federal government in the national response to BBVs and STIs, with a focus on developing the health workforce. The funding includes:
- $26 million over two years for subsidised pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention for people without access to Medicare
- $1.6 million over two years to develop a workforce education and training pilot on HIV prevention
- $28.6 million over two years to support and expand syphilis and STI testing in First Nations communities
- $7.9 million over two years to continue funding peak bodies to implement the national BBV/STI strategies
- $7.8 million over two years to develop and pilot hepatitis B projects to reduce transmission of hepatitis B in Australia
- $6.0 million over two years to continue support for hepatitis C projects to reduce transmission of hepatitis C in Australia.
ASHM President Dr James McMahon said this funding will bolster Australia’s efforts in the fight against HIV, viral hepatitis and STIs.
“We applaud the government for its ongoing commitment to genuine action on blood-borne viruses and STIs” said McMahon.
“In particular, we recognise the incredible leadership shown by Minister Mark Butler and Assistant Minister Ged Kearney for chairing and co-chairing the National HIV Taskforce respectively, creating a clear path to reaching our goals of virtual elimination of HIV in Australia,” he said.
ASHM CEO Alexis Apostolellis said the funding will empower the health workforce to implement the recommendations from the HIV Taskforce report, as well as the national hepatitis B, C and STI strategies.
“Investment in the health workforce to address these challenges is especially welcomed, and will make an enormous impact,” said Apostolellis.
ASHM looks forward to continuing to work closely alongside our partners in the community and government.
