ASHM welcomes the Federal Government’s continued investment in the HIV workforce, with the announcement of $2.7 million in 2025–26 for HIV programs, including the extension of ASHM’s HIV prevention workforce education pilot.
ASHM’s National PrEP Workforce Development Pilot Project aims to build Australia’s workforce capacity and break down access barriers to increase the uptake of HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). When taken correctly, HIV PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV transmission by up to 99%.
ASHM CEO Alexis Apostolellis said the funding recognises the importance of proven prevention measures in achieving the elimination goals set out in Australia’s Ninth National HIV Strategy 2024-2030.
“We know PrEP is highly effective in preventing HIV. But to take full advantage of its potential, Australia’s health workforce needs to be aware, educated and confident prescribing HIV PrEP,” said Apostolellis.
“Building workforce capacity around HIV PrEP is a crucial step towards making the virtual elimination of HIV transmission a reality in the near future.”
The 2025-26 Budget represents an ongoing commitment from the Federal Government in the HIV sector, following significant investment in HIV prevention and education in the 2024-25 Budget.
“ASHM especially recognises and commends the dedication of Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler and Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney, who have provided strong guidance in their roles as the National HIV Taskforce’s Chair and Deputy Chair, respectively,” said Apostolellis.
The National PrEP Workforce Development Pilot Project is running throughout 2025. ASHM looks forward to continuing our work with our sector partners towards implementing the recommendations of the National HIV Taskforce with the continued support of the government.
