Living Positive NT
Peer-led support and community care for Territorians living with HIV
Recently diagnosed with HIV?
Talk to us!
Our Care and Support team offer free and confidential information & support by phone, email or in person.
Living Positive NT is a new resource for NTAHC’s peer-led Care & Support Program, continuing our commitment to supporting people living with HIV across the Northern Territory. Whether newly diagnosed or living long-term with HIV, we offer compassionate, confidential support built on community, experience, and empowerment.
What We Offer
Tailored Peer Support, Wherever You Are
Why Peer Support Matters
Lived Experience. Real Support.
Support from someone who’s been there can make all the difference. Our team includes peers with lived experience of HIV, helping others navigate life with confidence, dignity, and connection.
Because health is more than medication.
Living Positive NT addresses social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing—reducing stigma, improving mental health, and building strong, informed communities.
Why Peer Support Matters
Lived Experience. Real Support.
Support from someone who’s been there can make all the difference. Our team includes peers with lived experience of HIV, helping others navigate life with confidence, dignity, and connection.
Because health is more than medication.
Living Positive NT addresses social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing—reducing stigma, improving mental health, and building strong, informed communities.
"It helped to talk with someone who understood HIV and my culture"
“After diagnosis, I felt overwhelmed. But peer support gave me a way forward.”
“I’m more confident and in control of my health—and I’m not alone anymore.”
One-on-One Peer Support
Talk with someone who understands HIV, living in the NT.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Shock, denial, or fear: Upon learning of the diagnosis, many women experience shock or disbelief. They may worry about their health, mortality, and future.
Concerns about Disclosure
Telling loved ones: Many women worry about how to disclose their status to family members, friends, or romantic partners, fearing rejection or misunderstanding.
Health and Medical Issues
Starting antiretroviral therapy (ART): Understanding the importance of starting and adhering to ART is essential, but the process may be daunting, especially if they are concerned about side effects.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Impact on sexual relationships: HIV may bring concerns about intimacy, sexual pleasure, or fear of transmitting the virus to partners.
Stigma and Discrimination
Cultural and gender-based stigma: In many cultures, women with HIV may face more stigma than men. They may be blamed or judged, especially if they are seen as deviating from societal norms regarding sexuality or motherhood.
Access to Care and Support
Healthcare access: Some women may face barriers to accessing high-quality HIV care, including financial limitations, lack of health insurance, or living in areas with limited healthcare resources.
Impact on Family Life
Children and parenting: Women with children may worry about how their diagnosis will affect their ability to care for their children or how to explain their condition to them.
Long-Term Outlook
Life expectancy: Although modern ART allows people with HIV to live long and healthy lives, many newly diagnosed individuals may initially fear a reduced lifespan or future health complications.
Financial and Practical Concerns
Cost of treatment: Worries about the affordability of medication, regular checkups, and potential hospital visits may arise.
Peer Support Groups
"it's a great space to connect with people, find support and share information"
The Care & Support program’s social inclusion groups are a place for people to meet, share and support each other on their health and wellbeing journey.
Our peer support groups aim to:
- Provide a non-judgmental, safe and supportive environment
- Organise friendly and informal activities based on your wants and needs
- Provide access to information, advocacy and support services
These groups can be a great way to meet others who share your life experience. These events are held throughout the year and also include yearly retreats for different groups.
The importance of Social Inclusion
Social inclusion is crucial for people who are HIV positive due to its impact on their health, well-being, and overall quality of life. The stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS often affect women disproportionately, particularly in certain cultural or socio-economic contexts. Here are key reasons why social inclusion is important for people living with HIV:
Reduction of Stigma and Discrimination
Combatting Isolation: Social inclusion helps counter the isolation that many HIV-positive women face due to the stigma surrounding the disease. Women often experience double discrimination—both because of their gender and their HIV status.
Improved Mental Health
Support Systems: Being part of a community that includes HIV-positive women can provide emotional support, which helps in coping with the psychological stress that comes with the diagnosis.
Access to Healthcare and Services
Better Access to Resources: Women who feel included and accepted in society are more likely to seek medical treatment, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), regular health checkups, and psychosocial support services.
Education & Resources
THIS SECTION IS CURRENTLY BEING UPDATED
Understanding HIV Today
Living Well With HIV
Today, people living with HIV can thrive. With the right support and treatment, HIV is manageable—and U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) means there’s no risk of passing it on when viral load is suppressed.
You have rights. You have options. And you have a community here.
Learn about HIV
What is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which play a crucial role in helping the body fight infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most severe phase of HIV infection.
How is HIV Transmitted?
HIV is primarily transmitted through:
- Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
- Sharing needles or syringes
- From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding
- Exposure to infected blood (rare cases)
Undetectable Viral Load: For people living with HIV, adhering to treatment can lead to an undetectable viral load, eliminating the risk of transmission.
Living with HIV
With advancements in treatment, people living with HIV can lead long and healthy lives. Regular medical care, healthy lifestyle choices, and emotional support are essential components of living well with HIV.
Stigma
Understanding Stigma
HIV-related stigma can severely impact individuals living with the virus. It often stems from misconceptions about how the virus is transmitted and who is affected by it. Stigma can lead to discrimination, social isolation, and fear of disclosing one's status.
Combating Stigma
- Educate Yourself and Others: Knowledge is power. Share accurate information about HIV to dispel myths.
- Support and Advocacy: Engage in community groups or campaigns that aim to reduce stigma and promote awareness.
- Speak Up: If you witness discrimination against someone living with HIV, speak out against it.
U=U
Understanding U=U
U=U stands for "Undetectable = Untransmittable." This revolutionary concept means that people living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load through consistent antiretroviral therapy (ART) cannot transmit the virus to sexual partners. This empowers individuals living with HIV to have fulfilling, healthy relationships.
Why U=U Matters
Reduces Fear: Knowing that HIV is not transmissible when undetectable helps alleviate fears in both people living with HIV and their partners.
Promotes Treatment Adherence: Understanding U=U encourages consistent treatment adherence and regular health check-ups.
Disclosure
Why Disclosure Matters
Disclosing your HIV status can be a deeply personal decision that intersects with various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and mental health. It can foster trust and honesty but can also lead to fears of stigma or rejection.
Who to Disclose To
Intimate Partners: It is essential to inform sexual partners so they can make informed decisions regarding their health.
Family and Friends: Disclosing to trusted loved ones can provide emotional support and understanding.
Healthcare Providers: Always inform your healthcare providers about your HIV status to ensure you receive the best possible care.
How to Disclose
Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a comfortable and private setting to have the conversation.
Be Prepared for Questions: Be ready to answer questions or clarify misconceptions.
Practice Self-Care: Consider seeking support from a counselor or support group if you're feeling anxious about disclosing.
Your Right to Privacy
You have the right to control who knows your status. It’s your decision, and it’s important to do it at your own pace and comfort level. Remember, you are not alone—there are communities and resources available to support you.
Referrals & Help
connections to housing, Centrelink, legal aid,employment, or AOD support.
For service providers wanting to make a referral to the Care & Support program please fill out the downloadable document and email to info@ntahc.org.au or directly to one of the Care & Support team.
Surveys
Living with HIV Resource Sites
Navigating life with HIV can be challenging, but numerous resources and organisations are dedicated to providing support, information, and community for those affected. Below is a list of notable sites that offer valuable resources, advocacy, and connections for individuals living with HIV
NAPWHA (National Association of People with HIV Australia)
The peak non-government organization representing people living with HIV in Australia.
Positive Life NSW
Provides support, information, and advocacy for people living with HIV in New South Wales.
Living Positive Victoria
Supports people living with HIV in Victoria through advocacy, education, and peer support.
Queensland Positive People (QPP)
Offers support services, information, and advocacy for people living with HIV in Queensland.
Care and Support Blogs
