The Australian government marked World AIDS Day on 1 December by announcing over $50 million in new funding to extend access to HIV treatment in Australia and for activities that will support the health and mental wellbeing of people living with blood borne viruses and sexually transmissible infections.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt said the Morrison government was investing more than $39 million over 5 years to support people living with HIV in Australia, who are not eligible for Medicare, to access the treatment they need.

“This investment will benefit an estimated 1,000 people currently living with HIV in Australia each year, providing access to appropriate and equitable HIV treatment and care.”

“By expanding treatment to more people living with HIV in Australia, we can improve health outcomes for individuals and contribute to curbing the onward transmission of the virus,” Minister Hunt said.

The government will continue to work with the states and territories to establish the new access arrangements which will commence from 1 July 2022.