New data has revealed that Australia is making significant strides towards its goal of eliminating HIV transmission by 2030, with new data showing a 33 per cent reduction in diagnoses over the past decade, despite a slight increase in 2023.
The report from the Kirby Institute highlighted that parts of Australia are nearing the “end of AIDS”, due to widespread use of HIV prevention medication and effective treatment.
There were 722 new HIV diagnoses reported across Australia in 2023, which experts say is still lower than pre-pandemic levels.
However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing HIV among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, as well as with people born overseas.
Experts emphasised the need for continued efforts to ensure equitable access to prevention and treatment, particularly in rural and diverse communities.