The Federal government has announced it will list an effective HIV prevention drug on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), starting April 1.
Health Minister Greg Hunt confirmed the news on Tuesday 21st March, that pre-exposure prophylaxis medicine, known as PrEP, would be government subsidised from next month.
HIV advocates have welcomed the move as an important step forward for Australia in becoming one of the first countries in the world to eliminate the transmission of HIV nationally.
Professor Darrell O Donnell, the CEO of the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations, says the move will change people’s lives.
“There is absolutely no doubt that PrEP is a game changer for Australia’s response to HIV. With the introduction of PrEP, we’re absolutely certain that we will be able to drive rates of HIV in this country to very, very low levels,” he said.
However, there is a need to ensure the news is also shared with people from culturally diverse backgrounds, according to Barbara Luisi, manager of the MHAHS.
“People from diverse backgrounds need to be aware of this important announcement as many are unaware of what PrEP is. Some may be aware, but hesitant about it and fearful that taking it would stigmatise them in their community,” said Ms Luisi.
PrEP is a once-daily pill that is considered to be 99% effective at preventing new HIV diagnoses when used properly.
Click here for information about PrEP in different languages.
02 9515 1234
Level 1, 300 Bridge Road,