Australia strengthens Fiji’s HIV response with community focus

Australia is bolstering its commitment to Fiji's HIV response, advocating for a comprehensive, community-driven approach to tackle the growing challenge. Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong stressed that addressing HIV requires a collective effort involving health workers, faith leaders, traditional leaders, and the broader community.

Wong affirmed Australia's continued support, which will align with priorities set by the Fijian government, health sector, and local communities. The assistance will focus on key areas such as prevention strategies, training programs, workplace initiatives, community outreach, and the provision of essential health supplies. "We respond to your government’s and your people’s priorities, and I think that’s very important because the Minister today made a very important point, which is communities are partners in the fight against HIV," Wong stated.

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We respond to your government’s and your people’s priorities, and I think that’s very important because the Minister today made a very important point, which is communities are partners in the fight against HIV, and so this is an area particularly where it’s so important to work in partnership with community and work in partnership with others, and we respond to Fiji’s priorities.

Fiji's Minister for Health, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, underscored the importance of ensuring that effective HIV prevention tools reach those most in need. "We have powerful prevention tools available to us today. Our responsibility is to make sure that they reach the people who need them," he said. The Fijian government is committed to identifying, treating, and supporting individuals living with HIV, while simultaneously expanding access to prevention and treatment services nationwide. Australia's support also extends to infrastructure, including the upgrade of CWM Hospital under the Vuvale Partnership.

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We have powerful prevention tools available to us today. Our responsibility is to make sure that they reach the people who need them. Second, we will find, treat, and keep well every person living with HIV.