A report from Monash University, commissioned by the federal Department of Health and Ageing, says changes are needed following increasing HIV infection rates in four states – including Victoria.

A breakdown of the figures indicated 70 per cent of new infections were among gay men, and 20 per cent were among heterosexuals; with the remaining 10 per cent including intravenous drug users, and women transmitting the infection to children.

The Australian reports that, in Victoria, the increase was predominately among gay men, especially those over 50.

‘Risky sexual behaviours’, within the gay community in both Victoria and Queensland were also on the rise.

The report also found that increases in recreational drug use; men finding sexual partners through the internet; and the number of men who did not know their HIV status, or how to reduce the risk of infection; were also contributing factors in the increase in infections.

The Monash report said action had to be taken to identify and report on ‘potential HIV clusters’.

David Wain, acting President of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) Victoria, told MCV he is not surprised by the report’s findings.

“All of the social factors around HIV transmission are complex; there is not one simple solution. That’s why there are so many people working in this area,” he explained.

He said PLWHA Victoria welcomed anything that recommends an increase in resources for HIV research.

Australia’s national HIV/AIDS strategy has expired, and the federal government has yet to finalise future planning.

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