Sexual Health - SAMESH

Our Services

Learn more about SAMESH's services.

HIV Peer Navigation

Free, confidential support for people living with HIV, led by trained peers with lived experience. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, new to South Australia, or looking to reconnect, Peer Navigators can link you to HIV-specialist care, community groups, workshops, and other services.

Support is flexible — in person, over the phone, or online — and focuses on your needs, from understanding treatment to navigating stigma and disclosure.

Learn more about HIV Peer Navigation.

HIV Testing

Regular HIV testing is key to staying in control of your health. Knowing your status early means you can start treatment, stay healthy, and prevent onward transmission. We make HIV testing easier through:

• Rapid HIV Testing– fast, free, and confidential testing in Adelaide with results in 20 minutes.
• CONNECT – Free HIV Self-Test Kits – discreet, easy-to-use self-test kits available at no cost through community pick-up points.

Workshops and Groups

Explore community-centered learning and creative spaces designed to connect, inspire, and empower:

• Stepping Out Workshop
  A multi-week in-person series for gay, bi, and same-sex–attracted men aged 18–30. It offers a safe space to explore topics like coming out, sexual health, consent, pleasure, and community building—guided by peer facilitators and expert speakers. Participants can also become peer facilitators themselves.
  
• Sustainable Style
  A queer makerspace where adults of all abilities gather to upcycle, create wearable art, and build intergenerational community. Materials, sewing machines, patterns, and a light lunch are provided. Held regularly in Adelaide and Mt Gambier.
  
• Positive Ageing for Positive People
  A tailored workshop series for people living with HIV aged 45 and over. It promotes resilience, leadership, self-care, and peer support—designed to enhance wellbeing and social connection.

Campaigns

SAMESH delivers dynamic programming that fosters health, visibility, and engagement across South Australia:

• Community Events
  SAMESH hosts events like the “History Walk” for the 50th anniversary of decriminalisation and Positive Gathering Lunches in partnership with Positive Life SA—providing community space and peer connection.
  
• Awareness & Advocacy Campaigns
  Through storytelling projects like "Our Lives," SAMESH highlights the personal experiences of people living with HIV to combat stigma and foster empathy.

Volunteering

Volunteers are a vital part of SAMESH’s work — helping us deliver programs, support events, and connect with communities across South Australia. As a volunteer, you might:

• Assist with community events and workshops
• Help distribute health resources and information
• Support peer-led programs for people living with HIV
• Contribute to campaigns and outreach activities
• Offer your skills in creative projects, admin support, or event coordination

Volunteering is a great way to meet people, learn new skills, and make a difference in the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ communities.

Interested in getting involved? Learn more and register as a volunteer.

About SAMESH

SAMESH (South Australia Mobilisation and Empowerment for Sexual Health) is delivered by Thorne Harbour Health in partnership with SHINE SA. Established in 2015, the partnership combines SHINE SA’s local networks with THH’s HIV and community-led expertise to support South Australia’s LGBTIQA+ communities and people living with HIV.

Contact

Address: 57 Hyde Street, Adelaide, SA, 5000

Phone: (08) 7099 5300

Email: enquiries@samesh.org.au

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Website: www.SAMESH.org.au