The legal framework
Australia has one of the strongest prevention records anywhere, with PrEP listed on the national medicines scheme since 2018 and treatment subsidised on the same basis. The limitation is eligibility: people without Medicare, including many on temporary visas, are not covered, and depend on compassionate access schemes or importing medication under the personal importation rules.
Key points
| PrEP | Listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme since 2018 |
|---|---|
| Treatment | Subsidised on the same scheme, dispensed through hospital and community pharmacies |
| Testing | Free at sexual health clinics; self-tests approved for sale |
| PEP | Available through emergency departments and 24-hour PEP hotlines in several states |
| Medicare-ineligible people | Not covered; compassionate access and personal importation are the alternatives |
| Criminal law | Differs by state; several have removed HIV-specific provisions |
| Peer organisations | Strong network of community organisations in every state |
In practice
- Use the state PEP hotline: several states run a dedicated 24-hour line that directs you to the nearest supply.
- If you are not eligible for Medicare, contact a community organisation before paying privately: alternatives exist.
- PrEP can be prescribed by any doctor, not only specialists.
- Sexual health clinics test free of charge and do not require Medicare in most states.
Cost and coverage
Subsidised for Medicare holders; people without Medicare should seek advice rather than paying private prices.
Where to go
- State sexual health clinics and PEP hotlines.
- ASHM for clinical information and community organisations for peer support.
- Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations member bodies.
Worth knowing
Not having Medicare is the single biggest barrier in Australia. Community organisations can arrange affordable access, and personal importation of a legitimate generic is lawful for personal use with a prescription.
Official sources and links
- healthdirect — government health information and service finder
- ASHM — national clinical guidance on HIV and STIs
- Federal Register of Legislation — Commonwealth law as made and in force
- Services Australia — government services and payments