Our role in supporting HIV response in the Pacific
Our role in supporting HIV response in the Pacific
by Dean Cassano, Senior International Health Project Officer at Burnet Institute.
In this first edition of Poslink+ Feature, Dean highlights Australia’s vital role in supporting the HIV response across the Pacific, particularly in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Fiji, where HIV cases have surged dramatically since 2020.
Despite Australia’s success in managing HIV, neighbouring Pacific nations face significant challenges, including limited access to testing and treatment, especially in rural areas. Organisations like Burnet Institute, Living Positive Fiji, and Igat Hope are working collaboratively to strengthen peer-led support and advocacy.
Dean emphasises the importance of Australia acting as a responsible neighbour by listening, funding, and sharing expertise, while recognising the unique contexts and lived experiences that shape the HIV response in the region.