Is Australia Facing a Rise in Common STIs Despite a Decline in HIV?
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Synopsis
Australia is witnessing a troubling increase in STIs, particularly syphilis and gonorrhea, alongside a notable decline in HIV cases. With only a small percentage of the population tested for STIs, experts are calling for improved awareness and testing accessibility. What does this mean for the future of sexual health in Australia?
Key Takeaways
- Increase in STIs: Australia has seen a rise in syphilis and gonorrhea cases.
- HIV Decline: HIV diagnoses have decreased by 27% over the past decade.
- Testing Gaps: Only 16% of individuals aged 16-49 have been tested for STIs.
- Urgent Need: There is a need for increased awareness and accessibility to testing.
- Focus on Education: Education on sexual health is crucial for prevention.
Canberra, Sep 15 (NationPress) The 2024 sexual health report from Australia reveals an alarming increase in prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) while indicating a decrease in diagnoses of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
In the last ten years, the number of syphilis and gonorrhea cases has seen a significant rise, reaching 5,866 and 44,210 diagnoses, respectively, in 2024. This data was published in Australia’s 2024 Sexual Health Check-up by the University of New South Wales' Kirby Institute.
New national surveillance findings, unveiled at the Australasian HIV&AIDS Conference in Adelaide, highlight critical shortcomings in sexual health testing and a steep increase in syphilis and gonorrhea cases over the last decade.
The report indicates that syphilis cases among women have increased fourfold, raising urgent concerns regarding congenital syphilis, which has more than doubled since 2015, resulting in 34 infant fatalities, with Indigenous Australians disproportionately impacted.
“By increasing awareness among the Australian populace, including healthcare practitioners, we can ensure more individuals are tested and treated for syphilis, thereby halting the spread of this disease,” stated Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Michael Kidd.
Chlamydia continues to be the most prevalent STI in Australia, with 101,742 diagnoses in 2024, particularly affecting individuals aged 20-29. Notably, despite the rising STI rates, only 16 percent of Australians aged 16-49 have ever undergone testing for STIs.
The report also noted a 27 percent decline in HIV diagnoses over the past decade, resulting in 757 cases in 2024. However, a slight increase observed in recent years emphasizes the necessity of maintaining efforts toward Australia’s goal of virtually eliminating HIV by 2030, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Almost one-third of HIV diagnoses in 2024 were classified as late, meaning that patients may have been unaware of their HIV status for at least four years, underscoring the critical need for more accessible testing options, including self-testing.
HIV, if left untreated, can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). STIs can elevate the risk of HIV transmission due to sores or small tears in the skin that may expose individuals to the virus.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that while Australia has seen a decline in HIV diagnoses, the sharp increase in common STIs presents a critical public health challenge. The emphasis on improved sexual health education and testing accessibility is paramount to ensuring the well-being of all Australians.
NationPress
15/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the trend in HIV diagnoses in Australia?
HIV diagnoses have declined by 27% over the past decade, with 757 cases reported in 2024.
Which STIs are on the rise in Australia?
Syphilis and gonorrhea cases have more than doubled in the past decade, with significant increases reported.
What demographic is most affected by chlamydia in Australia?
Chlamydia remains the most common STI, particularly affecting individuals aged 20-29.
What is congenital syphilis and why is it a concern?
Congenital syphilis has more than doubled since 2015, resulting in infant fatalities and disproportionately affecting Indigenous Australians.
What percentage of Australians have been tested for STIs?
Only 16% of Australians aged 16-49 have ever undergone testing for STIs.
