Supporting Triple Elimination in Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste (STEPT)

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B is largely preventable through testing, treatment and vaccination at birth.

Dates:

2022 – Ongoing

Led by ASHM in collaboration with in-country partners, the STEPT project supports efforts to achieve the ‘triple elimination’ of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B via parent-to-child transmission in Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.

STEPT:

  • Delivers training and knowledge exchange forums between countries
  • Provides training for health workers
  • Clinical mentoring at selected health facilities 
  • Strengthens existing monitoring and surveillance systems to promote quality reporting.
 
Midterm review

 

In July 2025, ASHM conducted a midterm review at the halfway point of the STEPT project. This report acts as a structured reflection on the progress of the project, offering a snapshot of how it is progressing against its objectives, what is working well, and areas for improvement.  

STEPT is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).

Funded by:
Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and ASHM Members.
In country partners:
Maluk Timor, Catholic Church Health Services PNG, Papua New Guinea National Department of Health, Timor-Leste Ministry of Health

Upcoming Conferences and Events

2026 Youth Health Conference

22 - 24 Apr 2026
Novotel Sydney Parramatta, Dharug Country (NSW, Australia)

16th Australasian Viral Hepatitis Conference

12 - 14 Aug 2026
Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges, Walyalup (WA, Australia)

Australasian HIV&AIDS and Sexual and Reproductive Health Conferences

14 - 17 Sep 2026
Pullman Melbourne Albert Park, Naarm (Melbourne) (VIC, Australia)