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PDF printable version of New HIV and STI strategies to reinvigorate the nation’s response (PDF 23 KB)

27 May 2010

Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mark Butler, today officially launched the Second National Sexually Transmissible Infections (STI) Strategy and the Sixth National HIV Strategy to reinvigorate the nation’s efforts in response to the growing rates of HIV and STIs.

They are part of a suite of five national strategies which provide a framework to refocus Australia’s efforts to drive down the rates of HIV, STIs, and other blood borne viruses, and better support and care for people already living with these conditions.

Speaking at the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisation’s National Symposium on Prevention in Sydney, Mr Butler said while Australia’s STI infection rates are comparatively low by world standards, many people would be surprised to learn the rate of many STIs is actually increasing.

“One of the most worrying aspects of the growing rates of many STIs and blood borne viruses, including HIV, is that they are preventable if people practise safe sex and don't share needles,” Mr Butler said.

“While some of the increase may be attributable to improved screening and testing programs, the figures highlight the need to refocus our national efforts and drive down infection rates. Australians simply can’t afford to be complacent about HIV and STIs.

“As part of the major reforms to our health system, the Australian Government will be establishing a network of new Medicare Locals across Australia. One of their core functions will be to deliver local health promotion and preventative health programs targeting risk factors, including those that lead to HIV and STIs.

“Of course, health is everyone’s responsibility, and we will be encouraging individuals, families, communities, industry and businesses to play a greater role in preventing disease and infections such as HIV and STIs.”

Media contact: Samantha Regione, Mr Butler’s Office, 02 6277 4414

Background:

• Chlamydia remains the most common STI in Australia, with nearly 60,000 newly diagnosed cases in 2008. The number of cases almost doubled between 2004 and 2008 as did the number of infectious syphilis cases. In 2008, almost 1,000 Australians were newly diagnosed with HIV, up 50 per cent from 2000.

• The National Health and Hospitals Network and the Medicare Locals will also receive the support of the Australian National Preventive Health Agency to provide national standards and guidelines to support the roll-out of preventative programs.

• The National Strategies’ key performance indicators will track if Australia is successful in reducing the transmission of HIV and STIs, and if more people with the infections are seeking the appropriate treatment.

• The updated Strategies will provide a framework for better research and surveillance, preventative measures and health workforce training and education.

• For more information on STIs, including resources for teachers and parents, please see: http://www.sti.health.gov.au.