HIV Self-Test Program Expanding Nationwide
27 Jun 2024
CONNECT, our HIV self-test kit vending machine project, will soon be available nationwide.
The funding comes as part of the Government’s $43.9 million national HIV elimination strategy and will help difficult-to-reach populations access HIV testing.
The CONNECT HIV Test Initiative
CONNECT is a pioneering project that places HIV self-test kits in vending machines located in easily accessible public spaces, such as universities and sex-on-premises venues.
The project, launched by SAMESH, a joint program initiative between Thorne Harbour Health and SHINE SA aims to make HIV testing more convenient and private, thereby increasing testing rates and reducing the spread of HIV. It first launched in Adelaide, where it received overwhelmingly positive feedback for its ease, convenience and privacy.
The beauty of CONNECT is that people can test for HIV at home, either in complete privacy or with the support of a friend or loved one. The testing process is straightforward and outlined in seven languages.
CONNECT is a multi-faceted solution to the challenge of engaging priority populations. Each vending machine location includes information regarding HIV prevention and sexual health and wellbeing.
CONNECT overcomes a range of barriers to more conventional forms of HIV testing: self-tests are free and easy to access, and testing is discrete and convenient. In expanding HIV testing options, CONNECT gives people more choice and more agency over their sexual health and wellbeing
Self Testing Project Coordinator, Doctor Nikki Sullivan.
The Success of CONNECT
This Adelaide-based pilot program has been a remarkable success – over 64% of CONNECT users had never tested for HIV before accessing a CONNECT vending machine.
“The CONNECT pilot in South Australia has clearly demonstrated that using vending machines to dispense free HIV self-test kits increases testing, in particular amongst priority populations that can be hard to reach,” said Sullivan.
CONNECT is the most successful project of its kind in the world, and it is changing attitudes regarding HIV testing, sexual health and wellbeing. It encourages frequent testing and offers next steps for users regardless of the test’s results.
The trial has paved the way for a nationwide implementation, making self-testing available to a broader population across the country.
The Future of HIV in Australia
The national roll-out of CONNECT marks a transformative moment in Australia’s approach to HIV testing and public health. By leveraging technology and innovative modes of delivery, Australia is setting a precedent for other countries to follow. CONNECT’s success will depend on continued collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, partner organisations, and the public.
“Expanding this testing option to all states and territories will be an important part of achieving the virtual elimination of HIV transmission in Australia by 2030,” said Sullivan.
As CONNECT expands nationwide, the program brings hope for a future where HIV testing is normalised, stigma is diminished, and individuals are empowered to take control of their health.
This initiative strengthens public health efforts, moving us closer to the goal of ending the epidemic of HIV in Australia.