Media Release

AA066 - 22 September 2003

Australia Continues To Lead In The Fight Against HIV/AIDS

I will affirm Australia’s support for the UN Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS to the United Nations General Assembly Plenary on HIV/AIDS in New York tonight.

The incidence of HIV/AIDS in our region is of very serious concern. Already there are more than 7.2 million people living with the disease in the Asia Pacific. Last year, about 3000 people were infected each day with the virus.

Small island countries of the South Pacific are now confronting the disease, with AIDS and related diseases the leading cause of death in Port Moresby General Hospital.

Without leadership the fight against HIV/AIDS cannot be won.

Australia has played a leading role in regional efforts to contain the virus. In particular, it has been a driving force behind the Asia Pacific Leadership Forum on HIV/AIDS and Development. The Forum has given leaders the opportunity to work together on measures to stop the spread of the disease.

In 2000, Australia committed $200 million over six years towards a Global AIDS initiative, with $85 million already spent on activities aimed at reducing HIV infections. We are a leading donor in East Asia and the Pacific in terms of commitment and expenditure.

Next year, we will review our HIV/AIDS and development policy to take into account shifts in the nature of the epidemic and its impact.

Although the task ahead is formidable, real advance is possible and Australia will continue to work to build momentum in the global response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Media enquiries: Andrew Park (Minister’s office) 02 6277 7500, Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960

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