The Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service (MHAHS) is thrilled to commend Pozhet for its remarkable work over the last 30 years!

Pozhet has been a strong advocate driving a multitude of initiatives aimed at raising awareness about HIV and providing vital support to those living with the virus. Through the creation of many informative factsheets, captivating videos, and engaging animations like "One in Ten," "Heading Overseas," and "Heterosexuals and HIV: Visibility," Pozhet engages communities, breaking down stigma around HIV.  

One pivotal milestone has been when Pozhet and MHAHS supported each other to navigate the social media to reach the wider public. Together, we have harnessed the power of platforms such as Facebook, reaching wider communities and cultivating an environment of open dialogue, empathy, and support.

The impact of Pozhet's work reaches far beyond the printed page or the digital realm. It is their compassion and care that forms the foundation of their initiatives, creating safe spaces and empowering those affected by HIV. Their efforts have brought hope, comfort, and a sense of belonging to countless individuals, their families, and communities across the state.

As we celebrate Pozhet's remarkable 30-year commitment, MHAHS extends heartfelt congratulations and sincere appreciation for our invaluable partnership. We eagerly anticipate many more years of collaboration, as we continue to educate, support, and strive towards a society free from the stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV. Here's to a bright future filled with shared achievements and improved well-being for all those living with HIV.

HepBCommunity.org is a specialised online platform where people with Hepatitis B can find free support and information. The platform was created by Associate Professor Thomas Tu from Westmead Institute for Medical Research and Professor Jacob George, Head of Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Westmead Hospital and Sydney West Local Health District.

At HepBCommunity.org, you can access useful resources and get support related to your hepatitis B diagnosis wherever you are. What's great is that there are experienced doctors and researchers on the forum who can help you with your lab results, dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and much more. You can ask any questions you have and receive personalized responses from these professionals and fellow members who are going through similar experiences. 

Contact HepBCommunity.org today to connect with a supportive network that understands your journey with hepatitis B. It's a place where you can get the help you need, for free, from experts and people who care.

The Australian Government has announced its commitment to eliminating HIV transmission in Australia and addressing health disparities experienced by the LGBTIQA+ community. In the 2023-24 Budget, an additional $19.7 million will be invested to improve access to HIV testing, treatment, and information, including support for the HIV workforce and addressing other Blood Borne Virus (BBV) and Sexually Transmissible Infections (STI).

The investment includes expanding access to HIV treatment for people who are ineligible for Medicare, providing funding for the HIV Online Learning Australia program to provide up-to-date education and training for the HIV workforce, and additional support for BBV and STI peaks, including the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) and National Association of People with HIV in Australia (NAPWHA) to drive the national response.

This commitment is part of the implementation of the Eighth National HIV Strategy (2018-2022), which aims to end HIV transmission by 2030. The government's announcement of the HIV Taskforce in December 2022 will develop the Ninth National HIV Strategy, bringing Australia closer to achieving this goal.

The government is also developing a 10 Year National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people, which will establish an LGBTIQA+ Health Advisory Group to address the barriers faced by the community in accessing healthcare.

Leaving no one behind:                        

Leaving no community behind is critical to ending HIV in Australia and the world. The government's commitment to expanding access to HIV treatment for people who are ineligible for Medicare highlights the importance of this principle. By ensuring that everyone has access to HIV testing, treatment, and information, we can work towards ending HIV transmission and creating a more equitable society for all.