Media Release
Friday 1 December 2023
On Friday 1 December, Positive Life NSW will celebrate 2023 World AIDS Day with the Australian theme, Inclusion. Respect. Equity.
“This World AIDS Day theme highlights the fundamental tools we have to address HIV/AIDS,” said Jane Costello, Positive Life NSW CEO. “All individuals, regardless of our HIV status, background or circumstances deserve respect and equitable access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services,” said Ms Costello.
“With these principles, we can reduce HIV transmission, stigma and discrimination,” said Robert Agati, Positive Life NSW President. “When we welcome and include people from all cultural, gender and sexual diversity within our society, we respect them as they are and accord them equality,” said Mr Agati.
“Division, exclusion and a lack of respect for human rights are among the failures that have allowed HIV remain a health crisis, globally and locally,” said Ms Costello.
“The HIV pandemic is not over,” said Mr Agati. “HIV has simply moved further into the margins, impacting a diversity of communities, including people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, heterosexual people, people born overseas, people from diverse genders and sexualities, and women of all ages,” he said.
“On this World AIDS Day, as we celebrate the determination, strength and centrality of the community spirit of all people living with HIV, let us remember that these communities have been here all along, and often remain hidden in plain sight. It is through our relationships as communities and peers that we have the ability to engage, effect change and make a difference,” said Mr Agati.
If you need support to get tested, or to let a partner know about an HIV diagnosis, please call Positive Life on 8357 8386 or 1800 245 677 (freecall). Today HIV is a manageable health condition and people can live long, healthy, and active lives.
—
Positive Life NSW in partnership with Bobby Goldsmith Foundation will mark 2023 World AIDS Day with a celebration at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music from 6pm.
###
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Costello, CEO – 1800 245 677 or email communications@positivelife.org.au
Positive Life NSW is the largest peer-led and run representative body of all people living with HIV in Australia based in NSW. We make a significant contribution to, and positive impact across the spectrum of health and social issues on behalf of all people living with HIV in collaboration with HIV specialist and mainstream services to improve the health and quality of life of all people living with HIV in NSW. We do this through evidence-based health promotion, research, policy advice and peer support.
