The following is a statement from ACON CEO Nicolas Parkhill in response to an article that appeared in The Australian on October 24, regarding the Student Wellbeing Hub:

“ACON, NSW’s leading HIV prevention, HIV support and LGBTI health organisation has been at the forefront of responding to the HIV epidemic for 31 years. We are recognised leaders in educating gay and other homosexually active men about safe sex and HIV prevention.  Our HIV programs and services are targeted towards gay and same sex attracted men, which is important as HIV is a lifelong chronic disease which disproportionately affects gay and other men who have sex with men.

A key principle we employ in our work is to ensure we address both the specifics of HIV prevention, but also issues that can have an impact on the mental health and wellbeing of gay men.  Many younger gay men experience some difficulties around coming out, their identity and how that process can impact their relationships, family and friends. We have seen thousands of men go through these education programs and develop skills, resilience and networks that are invaluable to them leading healthier lives.

The programs listed in The Australian are directed at people over the age of 18.  All potential workshop participants undergo an intake and assessment process to determine their suitability to ensure that what we do is age-appropriate. We also work in the broader community to provide resources to support our HIV prevention efforts, such as working with gay venues to ensure condoms and safe sex information is readily available.

ACON was not aware of the link that existed on the Student Wellbeing Hub.”

ENDS