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 for HIV antiretroviral medication (Online Database)
- Click here to find a HIV-friendly chemist or pharmacy in NSW (google map)
- Click to learn more about the NSW co-payment waiver for all people living with HIV who get HIV 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 find it costly to access their HIV medication. These include:
- overseas visitors living with HIV (working, studying or holidaying in Australia) whose country does not have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with the Australian Government
- migrants (refuges and humanitarian entrants) to Australia who have applied for permanent residency, or
- migrants, asylum seekers to Australia who are ineligible for Medicare
If you are ineligible for Medicare or do not have a Medicare card and need HIV medication, please call Positive Life for safe, free and confidential information and support. (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 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 medications 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
