Cultural Diversity

Migrants from regions with a high prevalence of HIV can experience higher rates of HIV than the Australian population as a whole. While the number of people living with HIV in these communities is low, these people face a number of challenges that affect their quality of life. These challenges include late and unexpected diagnosis, and the absence of culturally sensitive healthcare services which can delay treatment initiation and access to prevention services for people at high risk of HIV.

People in these communities may also experience high levels of stigmatisation and discrimination. They may also be more vulnerable to HIV due to myths and misconceptions around HIV transmission and illness, gender inequity, and cultural sensitivities around talking about sex.

Health Equity Matters has also produced several resources to support the community response to HIV in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities:

• HIV and CALD communities: Mapping health promotion programs and resources

In 2015 Health Equity Matters published a mapping of programs and resources developed by a range Australian services, community organisations and government agencies to address HIV-related issues affecting CALD communities. The mapping lists over 70 programs and resources. It is intended to support the work of service providers and community organisations working with CALD communities