Resource Library
Mpox Update - July 2024
Meridian is encouraging people at risk of mpox to learn more about the virus, including symptoms, risk factors, prevention strategies and the importance of getting vaccinated.
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Meridian is encouraging people at risk of mpox to learn more about the virus, including symptoms, risk factors, prevention strategies and the importance of getting vaccinated.
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The holidays are a time for celebration and joy, however, we are aware that it can be a challenging time for many folks. Meridian Wellbeing collaborated with Directions ACT, and made a list of practical tips for managing alcohol and other drug needs, acknowledging the unique challenges and experiences that may arise during this time, no matter if you will spend the time with well-meaning friends, family, chosen family or by yourself.
Read more2023 has been another exceptional year. In fact, it marks our 40th year in operation. Initially established in 1983 as the ACT AIDS Action Committee, our organisation was formed by a group of gay men living in Canberra to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the region.
Read moreClinicians, community, government and industry delegates agree that person-centred principles should guide the delivery of HIV-related care to ensure the highest attainable standard of health for people living with HIV and people at risk of HIV acquisition.
Read morePronouns are words that are used to refer to someone when not using their name. To learn more about pronouns, and how to be a good ally, read our pronoun fact sheet.
Read moreWe’re thrilled to launch our new research report: The role of LGBTIQA+ peer-led services in meeting the health needs of LGBTIQA+ people in Australia.
Read moreMeridian is proud to present the Meridian Multicultural Engagement Plan which outlines our commitment to support people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse backgrounds, migrants, refugees, asylum seekers and people of colour who are impacted by HIV and are of diverse sexualities and genders.
The document aligns with Meridian’s Strategic Plan goals of ending HIV transmissions for all, delivering excellent, client-centred care, giving voice to our communities, strengthening inclusion, and attracting and developing the best staff.
Read moreEach year, the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) provides a snapshot of what HIV looks like in Australia. This resource, provides the most up to date epidemiological data in the form of an infographic.
Key Points:
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The holidays are a time for celebration and joy, however, we are aware that it can be a challenging time for many folks. Meridian Wellbeing collaborated with Directions ACT, and made a list of practical tips for managing the unique challenges and experiences that may arise during this time, no matter if you will spend the time with well-meaning friends, family, chosen family or by yourself.
Read moreReligion-based discrimination of LGBTIQ+ people can take many forms. It may involve conversion programs and religious ‘counselling’ practices (i.e. practices that try to change the sexuality or gender identity of LGBTIQ+ people). Unfortunately, these practices still exist in Australia despite extensive evidence about their life-threatening harms (Ryan, 2009).
Read moreIn the ACT, there is no peak body representing LGBTIQA+ people or organisations providing services to LGBTIQA+ people. The question of whether the ACT needs a peak body for LGBTIQA+ health and wellbeing is one that arises from time to time, including within the Office of LGBTIQ+ Affairs, in the ACT Health Scoping Study, in the commissioning process for peak bodies, and by individual stakeholders. This discussion paper outlines the arguments for and against establishing an LGBTIQA+ peak body in the ACT, and presents some alternative options to establishing a new, separate organisation.
Read moreThe health, safety, and wellbeing of our communities remain at the heart of our work at Meridian. While Canberra was relatively sheltered from COVID-19 early on, we were hit hard by the pandemic in the first half of this financial year. In response, we rallied to support our communities, working hard to ensure they had access to appropriate health information and resources, COVID-19 vaccinations, and mental health support. We also made sure that our communities could meet their ongoing healthcare needs, including having access to HIV testing facilities, HIV medication, and harm-reduction resources and support.
Read moreThe Contribution to Change (C2C) Framework was developed by Collective Action to assist community, and peer-based organisations measure, and demonstrate their impact.
Read moreThis brief updates Australia’s HIV sector on three journal articles published from the Gay Community Periodic Surveys (GCPS) from the Centre for Social Research in Health at the University of NSW. The findings from these surveys provide insight into some of the communities we work with, particularly gay and bisexual men (GBM).
Read moreGeneral Practice Supervisors Australia's information about resources for LGBTQIA+ people.
Read moreInformation about who can access and how to access Medicare.
Read moreA snapshot infographic of some of the key findings from the Canberra Gay Community Periodic Survey (GCPS).
Read moreThe Canberra Gay Community Periodic Survey (GCPS) is a cross-sectional survey of gay and bisexual men recruited from a range of gay venues and events in Canberra and online throughout the Australian Capital Territory. The major aim of the survey is to provide data on sexual, drug use and testing practices related to the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs). The survey is conducted every two years.
Read moreMeridian is proud to present this inaugural Meridian Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2021- 2022. Our Reflect RAP signifies Meridian’s sincere intent to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural safety through a structured process of establishing and strengthening meaningful and respectful relationships with First Nations’ community members. It was developed by Meridian in consultation with members of the ACT’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and Meridian members.
Read moreThis document will introduce you to our Logo and Brand guidelines, a framework for consistent application across all design, media and communications. Please download and read this guide before using our Logo.
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Meridian is here to help people impacted by HIV, Sexually diverse people, Trans and gender diverse people and Sex workers. We support our communities at all stages in life take control of their sexual health by providing information, workshops and a range of support services to inform, educate and arm you with the knowledge you need to keep your sex life healthy.
Our message to you is simple – Know your sexual health status. Know your risks and manage your sex life with confidence. Protect yourself and your sexual partners. With the right information, the right advice and the right people to talk to, you can significantly reduce your risk of HIV, an STI, or passing these on to a sexual partner.
Meridian is here to support your sexual health.
Read moreThe next National Plan provides an historic opportunity for LGBTIQ people to be meaningfully included in the shared effort to end family, domestic and sexual violence. We are pleased that the Draft National Plan commits to ending all forms of genderbased violence, including ensuring that LGBTIQ people of all genders are safe at home, work, school, in the community and online. However, we are concerned that recent leadership and action in this space has not been adequately reflected and included in the Draft National Plan
Read moreThis guide is designed to support providers of mental health care to be able to deliver their services in a gender-affirming way to support the needs of trans and/or gender diverse people.
Read moreEach year, the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) provides a snapshot of what HIV looks like in Australia. This resource, provides the most up to date epidemiological data in the form of an infographic.
Key points:
HIV in Australia 2022 reflects some of the many impacts of COVID-19, including disruptions to testing and prevention.
We work to improve access to inclusive and culturally safe Aged Care services for LGBTI+ elders and improve their wellbeing.
Meridian is a leader in LGBTI+ inclusion within the Seniors and Aged Care sector in the ACT.
Read moreThe history of the successful response to HIV in New South Wales is a testament to the effectiveness and strength of the community’s response and the understanding shown by policy makers, researchers, politicians and other health professionals to work in partnership with affected communities. This partnership has been at the core of the world leading response and has meant that NSW has been able to respond to HIV more effectively than many other places around the world.
At the centre of this partnership has been our communities and the peer workers who have dedicated countless hours and much energy in responding to HIV and in supporting and caring for each other.
We are proud to be working alongside the ACT Government in creating a safe and inclusive city for all Canberrans. Meridian welcomes the commitments of the ACT Labor and ACT Greens policy platforms for the 10th Legislative Assembly that aim to improve the lives of LGBTIQA+ Canberrans, as outlined in the Parliamentary & Governing Agreement: 10th Legislative Assembly.
Meridian is calling on the ACT Government to allocate adequate funding in the 2021/22 budget to implement these commitments.
Read moreAn HIV Self-Test is an HIV test you can perform yourself in the privacy of your own home or wherever you feel comfortable. The HIV Self-Test available in Australia is discrete, accurate and easy to use.
The HIV Self-Test is a small cartridge containing a paper test strip. It is similar in size and shape to a USB drive. Included in the HIV Self-Test pack will be an HIV Self-Test cartridge, a set of instructions, a bottle of test fluid (which is added along with a blood sample), and a disposal bag. The pack contains a Care Card, which includes a list of contacts in case you have questions or concerns about the test or your test result.
It has been another busy year as we continue to work at the individual, community, organisational, and public policy levels to achieve positive outcomes for our communities.
We kicked off last financial year by refreshing our strategic plan to ensure we remain at the forefront of achieving positive outcomes for our communities. Our new plan sets out an ambitious program of activities that aim to contribute to eliminating HIV and improving sexual health, improving access to quality services for people living with HIV, creating a safe community, and
improving access to inclusive and knowledgeable health and wellbeing services for people who require support around gender identity and sexuality. The plan also sets an agenda for investing in the organisation to ensure sustainability and growth. The 2021-2024 Strategic Plan is available on our website.
In 2021, due to COVID-19 and public health restriction, CBR Fair Day was held within a social engagement software – TOPIA. It was a bold and daring attempt to ensure that the tradition of Fair Day lives on, and we continue to create opportunities for community connection whilst providing a platform for groups and organisations to share their stories and services.
TOPIA provided a unique, engaging and user-friendly space to promote and discuss Meridian’s services and health promotion messages with the community who were able to take part in the event. TOPIA was new, experimental and fun, however we look forward to hosting Fair Day – Pride in the Park at Glebe Park in 2022.
Read moreHIV PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) factsheet for trans and gender diverse people.
What is PrEP? PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP is a pill that HIV negative people can take to prevent HIV. Taking PrEP before being exposed to HIV means there’s enough drug in your system to stop HIV if it gets into your body. If PrEP is taken as prescribed it has proved very effective at preventing HIV and reduces the risk of HIV transmission by almost 100%.
Read moreGet PrEP’D (PrEPárate) es una iniciativa nacional de Australia para gais y otros hombres (cis o trans), incluso no binarios, que tienen sexo con hombres que toman la PrEP (profilaxis previa a la exposición).
Read moreการเตรียมพร้อม (PrEP’D)เป็นความริเริ่มแห่งขาติของออส เตรเลียเพื่อชายเกย์และ ชายอื่นๆ (ซิสหรือแทรนส์) เพศที่ไม่จำ กัดตายตัวว่าเป็นชายหรือหญิง ผู้ซึ่งมีเพศ สัมพันธ์กับชายเกี่ยวกับยา PrEP (ยาป้องกันก่อนสัมผัสสำ หรับผู้ที่ยังไม่ติดเชื้อ)
Read moreGet PrEP’D is an Australian national initiative for gay, bisexual and other men (cis or trans), non-binary inclusive, who have sex with men about PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis).
Read morePeak bodies within community sector play an important role in representing the interests of their members and communities to government, as well as strengthening the capacity of, and fostering collaboration within the sector.
Read moreIf you are living with HIV and you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, you may be thinking about breastfeeding your baby, and whether it is safe or advisable.
The information in this community resource is provided for women who are living with HIV and want to understand the issues around breastfeeding or formula feeding.
For more information about this resource and other resources for Women Living With HIV, visit: https://napwha.org.au/resource/breastfeeding/
Read moreGay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (including trans men who have sex with men) are a priority population group for STIs and HIV. GP's, nurses, and other medical practitioners have an essential role in looking after their health.
Read moreMeridian welcomes the opportunity to contribute this submission to the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability. Meridian offers this independent submission to the Royal Commission, in addition to being a signatory to LGBTIQ+ Health Australia’s submission, to strengthen the points made in their submission, and to represent our Canberra-based organisation’s position and experiences, more specifically.
Read moreMeridian provides education and training to organisations, workplaces and community groups. We conduct a Pre-Session Questionnaire before each session in order to gauge existing knowledge and
to invite anonymous questions from participants which often generate lively discussion.
SoBar – Not So Straight Up aims to reduce alcohol-related harm within LGBTIQ+ communities in the ACT. It focuses on increasing awareness of the health and wellbeing impacts of harmful alcohol use, changing social norms influencing risky drinking behaviour and alcohol culture, and supporting access to suitable treatment and self-help options. The evaluation of the SoBar – Not So Straight Up program was conducted in two parts: a process evaluation assessing the quality of activities delivered and an impact evaluation assessing the impact of the activities
Read moreRepresentative groups for Canberra sex workers have rejected a claim that independent sex workers in Canberra could be breaking COVID-19 protocols by continuing to operate.
Read moreScarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association, our member organisations and individual sex workers publicly condemn this week’s malicious, self-serving and ignorant commentary (Canberra Times, 18 August) by Canberra brothel owner Aaron Jones.
Read moreThe effect of alcohol in combination with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medication is unpredictable and dangerous. In addition to negative side effects like nausea and drowsiness, combining alcohol and other drugs can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. When certain drugs interact with alcohol, they create a potentially deadly reaction. We’ve broken down the risks for you.
Read moreMeridian is a secondary NSP. We provide pre-packaged 8-packs as well as sharps disposal containers.
Read moreThe Contribution to Change (C2C) Framework was developed by Collective Action to assist community, and peer-based organisations measure, and demonstrate their impact. A defining characteristic of community organisations is that they aim to contribute to positive changes in their community. When it comes to demonstrating their contribution to these changes, however, many organisations fall short. With the C2C Framework, organisations can demonstrate the accumulative impact of their programs and activities and track their progress towards their vision.
Read moreMeridian was invited by the Capital Health Network (CHN) to co-design a service model for delivering mental health services to LGBTIQA+ communities in the ACT under the Psychological Therapies Targeting Priority Populations contract.
Meridian facilitated a co-design process with LGBTIQA+ people to design a service model that would respond to their mental health needs and address the barriers to mental health services that they experience.
Read moreLGBTIQA+ people face many barriers to full inclusion in the workforce. A range of initiatives have been developed to remove these barriers; however, they largely focus on removing barriers within workplaces rather than to employment. Employment services can make a difference by facilitating and promoting inclusion within job seeking, recruitment, and hiring processes.
Read moreLGBTIQA+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and asexual. The plus is used to show that it is also inclusive of the full diversity of genders, sexualities and bodies, including people who identify as pansexual, gender diverse, agender, gender fl uid, non-binary, as well as people who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality.
Read moreMeridian’s Written Submission for the Capital of Equality Second Action Plan Consultation
Read moreMeridian is Canberra’s leading community-based, peer-led organisation for people living with HIV/AIDS, and sex, sexuality and gender diverse communities. Meridian was pleased to be one of the organisations chosen to process Grant applications for the ACT COVID-19 Disability Strategy Respite Effect and Recovery Grants.
We are writing to sincerely thank you for implementing the Respite Effect and Recovery Grants program and its associated process.
Read moreA guide to carers' rights, responsibilities and support.
Read moreMeridian welcomes the opportunity to provide our support for, and comments regarding, Dr Paterson’s proposed Sexual Consent Law Reform. We also acknowledge and thank Deputy Chief Minister Berry’s work in establishing the tri partisan Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program. Meridian welcomes the recent appointment of Renée Leon as Chair of the overarching Steering Committee and the establishment of inclusive and intersectional Groups to drive reform in this important area.
Read moreThe International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is a time for all of us to remember the many lives lost of HIV and AIDS. The first memorial event was held in 1983 and since then there have been thousands of events across the world.
This year the event was held at Ainslie and Gorman Arts Centre and the guest speaker was Clara Tuck Meng Soo. Dr Soo received her medical training at Cambridge University and King’s College London. She worked for several years in the UK before migrating to Australia in 1989. In 2002 she became Practice Principal of IGP and Hobart Place General Practice.
Read moreMinimum standards for data collection of sex, gender, variations of sex characteristics and sexual orientation.
Read moreYou Are Welcome Poster – All sexualities, genders, identities, expressions & cultures welcome here.
Read moreFrom the time we are born (it’s a boy or it’s a girl) we learn gender concepts and binary language in our everyday life including family, peers, schools, community, media, culture and religion.
Read moreMeridian ACT has developed a factsheet on the Recommended ACT Priorities for Action: HIV 2021
With the following 6 priority areas.
This information has been prepared by the sex worker outreach program (SWOP ACT) at Meridian to assist sexual health nurses, nurse practitioners, medical students, doctors and other health care providers when taking a sexual history from a sex worker.
Read moreLa Trobe University research released today found 57.2% of more than 6,000 surveyed lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer people were experiencing high or very high levels of psychological distress, while 41.9% reported thoughts about suicide over the past 12 months.
Read moreSometimes workers are confused about providing oral sex to a client without a condom.
Read moreThis paper was developed by Meridian in consultation with community members and service providers, including the Canberra Inclusive Partnership’s Service User Reference Group, YWCA Canberra, ACT Shelter and Havelock Housing. Meridian acknowledges the existing body of work done by national and international researchers into the issue of LGBTIQA+ homelessness, which has informed many of the recommendations within this paper.
Read moreFeedback on vital legislative change to be part of bringing forth much-needed positive consent laws in the ACT.
Read moreCall for submissions to Inquiry into the Drugs of Dependence (Personal Use) Amendment Bill 2021
Read moreMeridian welcomes the opportunity to provide our support for, and comments regarding, Dr Paterson’s proposed Sexual Consent Law Reform. We also acknowledge and thank you for establishing the tri-partisan Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program. Meridian welcomes the recent appointment of Renée Leon as Chair of the overarching Steering Committee and the establishment of inclusive and intersectional Groups to drive reform in this important area.
Read moreThere are many other pride flags that represent other sub-cultures, identities and groups. Flags are generally used under a creative commons licence and to be used at your own discretion.
Read moreThis paper presents the most up-to-date research on emerging practices in terminology use, thereby offering an essential resource to organisations wishing to remain in touch with the communities they serve.
Read moreWe understand that getting access to PrEP to prevent HIV is not easy for everyone.
Meridian can help you access the Green Cross Pharmacy PrEP coupon pr...
Read moreMeridian has been awarded full accreditation against the National Standards for Mental Health Services!
The National Standards for Mental Health Services (NSMHS) are owned by the Australian Government Department of Health and were developed in 2010 as part of the National Mental Health Strategy. The Standards are outcome oriented and reflect a strong values base, related to human rights, dignity and empowerment.
Meridian provides current information to the ACT Government on the needs, rights and discrimination that our communities in the ACT continue to face
Read moreSubmission to ACT Health master-planning consultation for Canberra Hospital
Read moreUnderstanding and celebrating the diversity of bodies, genders, sexualities, and relationships of older LGBTI people.
Read moreMeridian provides free, friendly and inclusive services supporting older LGBTI+ persons, carers, loved ones and allies to connect and navigate My Aged Care.
Read moreHow the next ACT Government can contribute to a welcoming and inclusive community for the HIV+ community and LGBTIQ+ people and their families.
Read moreMeridian provides education and training to organisations, workplaces and community groups. We conduct a Pre-Session Questionnaire before each session in order to gauge existing knowledge and
to invite anonymous questions from participants which often generate lively discussion.
This is a health policy research project commissioned by the ACT Health Directorate. It aims to extend understandings of the complex and changing needs of the ageing populations living with chronic hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the ACT.
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Key stats and information about the HIV in Australia in 2020, courtesy of the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations.
Read moreWorld AIDS Day memorial, hosted by Meridian on November 29th 2020
Read moreThe current strategic plan has been extended to cover 2025.
We are Meridian:
We are a community-controlled, peer-led Organisation that provides Health and social support services to our community. We celebrate diversity, strengthen community, and empower individuals To live their best lives. Community, health, and Action are the core of Meridian and how we work.
Two great pandemics of the past fifty years – HIV and COVID-19 – have shaken societies around the globe. The immediate crisis of COVID-19 has many of the hallmarks of the early HIV pandemic – fear, rapid action, wall-to-wall media coverage and political attention. In time, we learned to live with HIV. As we enter its fourth decade, what insights from HIV can help us live with COVID-19?
Read moreMeridian welcomes the opportunity to respond to the revising of the Work Health and Safety (Sexual Services Industry) Code of Practice.
Read moreIn the lead up to World AIDS Day, Meridian will host a Morning Tea event to engage as a community, to show solidarity with people living with HIV, and to remember those
we have lost to an AIDS-related illness.
SoBar -Not So Straight Up aims to reduce alcohol related harm within the LGBTIQ+ communities in the ACT through increased awareness of the health and wellbeing impacts of alcohol and challenging the social norms around drinking behaviour and alcohol culture.
Read moreA print with detailed directions on how to find Meridian, entrance points and parking.
Read moreAn online network for tertiary students with information, tools and advice on drug, alcohol, mental health and wellbeing issues.
Read moreHigh quality interactive workbooks, strategies and self-help information on a range of mental health topics.
Read moreOffers evidenced-based information and resources on depression and bipolar disorder.
Read moreAn electronic hub of Australian mental health services and resources, providing high-quality information across a range of services and needs, (also on Facebook and Twitter).
Read moreThe Canberra LGBTIQ Community Consortium (hereafter referred to as the Consortium) is pleased to provide the ACT service sector with this resource. The Consortium is a partnership of four agencies, brought together by the common goal of ensuring health, wellbeing, access, social inclusion, and equity for Canberra’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) communities.
Read moreMeridian commends the ACT government on its leadership in banning conversion practice and supports the government’s intention to make clear to practitioners, service providers and the community that these harmful practices are not to be offered in the ACT. Meridian supports the introduction and passage of legislation to assist in the consideration of complaints in this area. Meridian is pleased to make the following submission with regards to the proposed ban.
Read moreIs your organisation inclusive of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities?
Read moreThis year’s annual report highlights a significant evolution in our identity as an organisation. At the annual general meeting in November 2019, our members voted to change our name. After almost four decades, we have re-launched under a new name: Meridian.
Read moreThe Canberra Gay Community Periodic Survey is a cross-sectional survey of gay and bisexual men. Participants are recruited from gay venues and community events, supplemented by online recruitment. The major aim of the survey is to provide data on sexual, drug use and testing practices related to the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
Read moreEvaluation results show that CBR Fair Day is engaging new members of the community while remaining its ongoing relevance to existing attendees. 86% of respondents had attended CBR Fair Day at least once, if not many times before, and 14% attended for the first time in 2019.
Read moreThis report presents the key findings of research conducted by the Women’s Centre for Health Matters (WCHM) with the support of Meridian into the health and health needs of same-sex attracted women in the ACT. An online survey was undertaken from October to November 2018. It was designed to better understand the health behaviours and needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer women (LGBQ) in the ACT, including cis and transgender women.
Read moreHere is some information that you will find useful if you are currently or planning on working in the ACT.
Read moreIt is a distinct privilege to provide our members with this report on behalf of the Council’s Board and staff. It clearly demonstrates our record of service delivery to the community, our strong financial position, and the effective governance that guides our day-to-day operations in HIV prevention and improving the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ communities.
Read moreThe views of same-sex attracted women in the ACT about their health; their health needs; their access to services, supports, and information; and the barriers to maintaining their health.
Read moreMeridian’s CBR Fair Day is a well-loved event on the Canberra events calendar that has been bringing the community together to celebrate Canberra’s Pride Festival and build community cohesion for the last 20 years. Funded by the ACT Health Directorate, CBR Fair Day promotes the creation of safe and supportive communities in which LGBTIQ+ people feel included, affirmed in their gender and sexual identities, and in which they are able to access high-quality and relevant services and information, which is strongly protective of good health and wellbeing.
Read moreThe Canberra Gay Community Periodic Survey is a cross-sectional survey of gay and homosexually active men. Participants are recruited from gay venues and community events, supplemented by online recruitment. The major aim of the survey is to provide data on sexual, drug use and testing practices related to the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
Read moreThe ACT is renowned as a fair, welcoming, and inclusive community that celebrates diversity. Thanks to the strong leadership of the ACT Chief Minister, the Territory is at the forefront of advancing the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ+) people. Through the establishment of the Office for LGBTIQ+ Affairs, and by committing to developing the first ACT LGBTIQ+ Strategic Plan, the ACT Government has reaffirmed its commitment to, and investment in, LGBTIQ+ rights, support, and inclusion.
Read moreMeridian is pleased to make this submission to Equality Australia. The Council supports the law reform to remove direct and indirect discrimination against LGBTIQ people in the Australian Capital Territory. In considering the key questions we think it is important to frame our response around six priority areas relevant to the issues and communities we support and represent.
Read moreIn 2017, Meridian partnered with Collective Action, a social impact consultancy, to develop and implement an impact measurement system – the Contribution to Change (C2C) Framework. In its second full year, C2C is going from strength to strength.
Read moreMeasuring our progress towards our vision of strong, connected and supportive communities that are free of new HIV transmissions, marginalisation, discrimination and stigma.
Read moreCBR Fair Day is a well-loved event on the Canberra events calendar that has been bringing the community together to celebrate diversity for the last 20 years. Meridian has proudly hosted the event since 2001. Since that time, CBR Fair Day has evolved from a targeted LGBTIQ+ event to a whole-of-community event that fosters community cohesion. In 2017 and 2018, CBR Fair Day was sponsored by the ACT Government Office for LGBTIQ+ Affairs, further strengthening this important community event.
Read moreThe stabilisation of new diagnoses comes after years of increased HIV testing, earlier access to HIV treatment, and increased availability of PrEP through clinical trials.
Read moreIN 1981 CASES OF SEVERE IMMUNE DEFICIENCY in gay men were noticed first in Los Angles and New York, and later across the USA, and the world. By early 1982 it was called GRID: “Gay Related Immune Deficiency” and half of the known cases in the USA had died. It soon became clear that GRID was not restricted to the gay community and it was renamed AIDS. By 1986, the virus was known as HIV and it was clear that it was not just a gay man’s disease. It became evident that whilst HIV does not discriminate, people do.
Read moreIt is an exciting and challenging time for Meridian and the entire community sector. A world leader in our responses to Blood Borne Viruses (BBV) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Australia has some of the lowest HIV transmission rates in the world. While ground-breaking technological advances have effectively changed how we respond to these issues, significant challenges remain. Meridian is well placed to tackle these challenges head on, improving and expanding its provision of support services and resources for our HIV and LGBTIQ communities.
Read moreIt’s been another busy and rewarding year for Meridian. With a new strategic plan setting the direction, we have been working diligently to meet our ambitious objectives.
Read moreThe Canberra Gay Community Periodic Survey is a cross-sectional survey of gay and homosexually active men. Participants are recruited from gay venues and community events. The major aim of the survey is to provide data on sexual, drug use and testing practices related to the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs) among gay men.
Read moreObjectives:
To improve the reach, impact, efficiency and effectiveness of community-led HIV education
Our vision for reconciliation is to ensure Meridian is an organisation where our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, clients, volunteers, members and key stakeholders are respected, included and understood.
Read moreNutrition can have a big impact on a person’s health and wellbeing. This is especially so for people living with HIV, who have the additional challenge of managing the interaction between their medications and their diet, where their diet can impact the effectiveness of HIV medications.
Read moreAustralia can end HIV transmission:A powerful combination of new science and decades of experience means Australia can lead the world and end the HIV epidemic.
Read moreThis year has been an exciting year for Meridian. After a period of change and renewal last year, this year saw Meridian undertake a major strategic planning process. This has resulted in a new Strategic Plan that will see the direction of Meridian from 2016 to 2020.
Read moreOur vision is to build strong, connected and supportive communities that are free of new HIV transmissions, marginalisation, discrimination and stigma.
Read moreCanberra’s AIDS Garden of Reflection to honour the lost and boost awareness among the living.
Read moreThis report presents findings from a series of consultations undertaken by the LGBTIQ Community Consortium. Consultations were held with members of LGBITQ communities and service providers to identify unmet needs in the community, barriers to services and good practice in delivering appropriate and accessible services to people who are part of LGBTIQ population groups.
Read moreThirty years into the fight against HIV, Canberra is home to many people affected by the disease, directly or as friends, colleagues, family or community, and despite a strong public understanding of the cause and prevention of HIV, a number of newly-reported diagnoses are added to this community every year.
Read moreThis year has been one of new beginnings with a move to new premises and returning to a financially stable position. This has strengthened the focus on the Council’s ability to develop and grow sustainably into the future. The move from Westlund House to Havelock House has provided a unique opportunity to reflect on our history, and protect the fascinating collection of local and national material which has been amassed over the Council’s last 30 years.
Read moreFor almost 30 years, the success of the ACT’s and Australia’s response to HIV has largely been a result of a collaborative partnership between our community, governments, researchers and health professionals. This year has again demonstrated the effectiveness of this partnership approach.
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This year has been a big journey for the Meridian. We’ve grown in capability and capacity. We’ve reinforced strong foundations. They have been challenging but exciting times and it has been a privilege and honour to be part of that journey.
Read moreWe now have reasonable optimism that the end of HIV in Australia is possible in the medium term and that AIDS can be completely eliminated. Our hope comes from a raft of new evidence that supports treatment as prevention, opportunities afforded by new HIV testing technology and the huge improvements in the lives of most of those that have access to the latest medications. Whilst these advances are real, their potential will not be realised without governments political will, community support and a renewed sense of partnership.
Read moreIt is my pleasure to welcome you to our 2011 Annual Report. This time last year, I was proud to announce the implementation of our new three-year Strategic Plan. One of the most important commitments we make in our plan is to ensure that we conduct an annual review of our performance against it, that we invite external stakeholders to participate in the review and that we are transparent and accountable for our performance
Read moreWelcome to the Annual Report of Meridian activities for 2009 – 2010. It has been some years since we have reported on such an active year; one where so much has been accomplished.
Read moreThis is a republication of the Sex Work Act 1992 (including any amendment made under the Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 (Editorial changes)) as in force on 10 August 2018. It also includes any commencement, amendment, repeal or expiry affecting this republished law to 10 August 2018.
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