More people in NSW have improved access to free HIV self-testing kits via vending machines, as part of an innovative $350,000 pilot project from NSW Health.
The MyTest pilot project offers people in NSW the opportunity to access up to four free HIV self-test kits each month from vending machines in strategic locations across the state, including Greater Western Sydney, regional NSW, and the University of NSW and the University of Newcastle.
The program is supported by culturally appropriate, in-language resources and information. The program also provides linkage to care in NSW Health services and aims to address the needs of people at risk of HIV who have never tested, or who test infrequently. Self-testing overcomes barriers to HIV testing and reduces stigma.
Tests are discreet, easy to use and provide accurate results in just 15 minutes, with more than 920 tests dispensed since late May 2024.
Today, Sunday 1 December, marks World AIDS Day. This is a day to show support for people living with HIV, as well as to raise awareness about the prevention, treatment and support available for people with HIV.
New South Wales is recognised as a world leader in responding to HIV, with strong commitment to innovative new programs which support both HIV prevention and people living with HIV.
Despite significant health advancements, HIV remains a public health concern in NSW. According to The Kirby Institute's 2023 HIV Surveillance Report, there are almost 30,000 people in Australia living with HIV, and an estimated 2,020 of them are unaware of their HIV status.
This project complements existing confidential HIV testing options available in NSW such as through publicly funded sexual health clinics and supporting general practitioners. These significant contributions have been made by NSW Health and partner organisations towards the national HIV response, reinforcing Australia's status as a global leader in HIV prevention.
For information on HIV prevention testing and treatment, including what to do if you have recently been exposed, talk to a doctor, or call the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"Today on World AIDS Day, we remember people who have died of AIDS-related illnesses but also show support for people living with HIV.
"The treatment and prevention options for HIV have come a long way, but there is still more work to do in this space and part of that is making sure people have access to testing in a way that suits them.
"MyTest makes testing as easy as possible by providing people an alternative way to access free, discreet and confidential HIV self-testing that is culturally appropriate, links people into care."
Quotes attributable to NSW Health Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Michelle Cretikos:
"HIV self-testing is a safe, accurate and effective way to reach people who may not test otherwise, including populations at higher risk of HIV such as men who have sex with men and bisexual men.
"Testing for HIV is so important, because once diagnosed, people living with HIV can access medication that allows them to live a healthy, long life while also preventing transmission of the infection to sexual partners.
"NSW Health thanks our partner organisations who have made invaluable contributions to the HIV self-testing project's development and implementation."
Quotes attributable to University of Newcastle Health Promotion Coordinator Paula Convery:
"The University of Newcastle is proud to be one of the first organisations to host a HIV self-test kit vending machine at our NuSpace campus as part of the My Test pilot project. This is the latest development in a longstanding and productive partnership with NSW Health.
"Offering accessible confidential testing for often stigmatised or marginalised groups, this initiative is in keeping with our core values of equity, inclusion and community engagement and assists our goal to contribute positively to global health and social impacts through local action."
