HIV Medications
People living with HIV in NSW can get their HIV antiretroviral medication from any local chemist or pharmacy in NSW, like any other medicine.
Since 2015, HIV medication has been provided free-of-charge to all people living with HIV (HIV co-payment waiver) who are eligible for an Australian Medicare Card or if their country is listed within the Reciprocal Health Care Agreements with the Australian Government, by the NSW Government.
- s100 Prescribers List for HIV antiretroviral medication (ASHM Online Database)
- Click to learn more about the NSW co-payment waiver for all people living with HIV who get HIV antiretroviral medication prescriptions filled through NSW public hospitals or community pharmacies (external link)
- Click here to check which countries have Reciprocal Health Care Agreements for visitors to Australia (external link)
People living with HIV who are not eligible for Medicare
People who are living with HIV, and who are not eligible for Medicare or who do not have a Medicare card can access free HIV antiretroviral medication through the Medicare Ineligible Scheme. This includes people living with HIV who are visiting Australia on medium- and long-term visas as well as people who are looking to stay permanently in Australia and ineligible for Medicare or other reciprocal health arrangements can access their HIV antiretroviral medication for free like other people living with HIV in Australia. Click here for NSW Sexual Health Clinic locations.
If you want some support to work out how to get your HIV antiretroviral medication, give Positive Life NSW a call on (02) 8357 8386 or 1800 245 677 (freecall) or email contact@positivelife.org.au
- Accessing HIV Medication for people living with HIV without Medicare
- Medicare Eligibility
- Healthcare for visitors to Australia
- Find your nearest Medicare Office
- HIV/AIDS Legal Centre (HALC)
Visiting Australia
If you are travelling to Australia it is recommended you organise a your supply of HIV antiretroviral medication, before you arrive in Australia. If you are already living in Australia you can access your medication by either importing your personal HIV medication from your home country or import it from an online chemist for your own personal use.
Three reputable online websites include:
If you have any treatments or HIV antiretroviral medication questions or need safe, free and confidential support, please call a Peer Support Officer on (02) 8357 8386, 1800 245 677 (freecall) or email contact@positivelife.org.au
page updated: 11 September 2023
