Planning for the virtual elimination of HIV in Australia: a Delphi consensus

Abstract

Australia has seen a steady decline in HIV notifications since 2013 and has one of the fastest declining rates of HIV transmission in the world. Australia is now in a globally unique position to plan for a near future of virtual elimination of HIV transmission. Through community involvement for every stage of this Delphi consensus process, we ensured the statements drafted reflect the needs of the community and highlight the gaps in the HIV response that will be essential to address if virtual elimination is to be achieved. The targeted strategies developed address how to reduce HIV transmission at every stage and facet of the HIV response (including prevention, testing, treatment, reducing HIV stigma, and enhancing the community-led response and research), resulting in a list of specific and essential priorities for the next stage of Australia's HIV response. Essential to achieving virtual elimination is the need for continued collaboration from community organisations, clinicians, researchers, and funding agencies. As Australia is one of the few countries in the world to be able to plan for HIV elimination in the near future, this Position Paper will be a useful guide for other countries as they plan for their own HIV response.