Andrews announces health task forces

Health Minister Daniel Andrews has launched three task forces to provide policy advice on HIV prevention and care, viral hepatitis and sexual and reproductive health.

The task forces were announced on Monday to a crowd gathered in the grounds of Parliament to mark the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day.

The group paused to remember those living with the virus -” and those who have died of HIV/AIDS-related illnesses.

World AIDS Day this year called on Australians to take personal responsibility in stopping the virus’ spread, with the slogan -œEnjoy Life. Take Control. Stop HIV.

Andrews told the crowd he was committed to tackling the issue of HIV and said the government has allocated $16.6 million over the next four years to tackle HIV and other communicable diseases.

-œEven though improved treatments have seen fewer deaths, it is important to remember that people still die from HIV-related illnesses, he said.

The three task forces will meet twice a year to form the Sexual Health and Viral Hepatitis Forum, with the view to strengthening Victoria’s ability to respond to these health issues.

Two HIV-positive speakers from the PLWHA Speakers Bureau spoke of the battles they’ve had coming to terms with the virus. One speaker, Stefanie, was 23 years old when she was diagnosed. She said it took her 12 years to come to terms with living with the virus.

Speaking of his experience as a HIV-positive man, Dr Jon Willis said facing death means he now counts every day as a joy.

Diagnosed in the early 1990s, Willis said he has seen a magnitude of change in the way HIV is managed, taking around 18 pills when he was first diagnosed to now taking two.