In Brief:

• A new Hepatitis C pilot program is now available for Community Corrections clients.
• The program aims to remove barriers for those in the justice system from accessing life-saving healthcare.
• The program was announced ahead of World Hepatitis Day in support of action to help eliminate viral hepatitis.

A new pilot program has been launched ahead of World Hepatitis Day to help people in the justice system receive life-saving healthcare.

ACT Corrective Services clients on community-based or parole orders are now able to receive free, confidential testing and treatment for hepatitis C.

Testing includes a quick, finger-prick test, with results ready within minutes.

Access to free treatment is available for those who test positive. This includes access to antivirals, which cure the virus in 99 per cent of cases.

The program offers ongoing care for detainees transitioning back into the community.

After 12 months, an evaluation will assess its impact and explore opportunities to expand the model.

Hepatitis ACT chief executive officer Sarah Ahmed said the pilot would remove barriers that prevent people in the justice system from accessing healthcare.

“Hepatitis C is now curable, yet too many people, particularly those with complex or marginalised lives, remain undiagnosed or untreated,” she said.

“This pilot program demonstrates what’s possible when not-for-profit, health and justice systems collaborate to remove barriers to care. By offering free, fast, and confidential testing and treatment in a community-based corrections setting, we are not only delivering on public health goals, but we are also ensuring that all Canberrans, regardless of their circumstances, can access the care they need.”

Hepatitis C is a significant public health concern in Australia. Individuals in correctional facilities are more affected due to factors such as:

• drug use
• mental health issues
• homelessness
• financial
• social disadvantage.

The aim for World Hepatitis Day 2025 in Australia is to mobilise action on the elimination of viral hepatitis in Australia.

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