Queensland World AIDS Day

HIV/AIDS issues are relevant to the whole community. Whilst gay men are the group most affected in Australia, HIV does not discriminate and people from diverse backgrounds are affected by HIV/AIDS. HIV is increasing in Queensland, nationally and internationally. As a community we need to talk about HIV/AIDS issues to improve support for people living with HIV and to prevent further infections. World AIDS Day and the week leading up to this event (AIDS Awareness Week) provide opportunities for discussing HIV/AIDS within the general community.

The World Health Organisation declared the first World AIDS Day in 1988. The day, 1 December, quickly became established as one of the world's most successful commemorative days and is now recognised and celebrated every year around the world. Over 190 countries around the globe participate in World AIDS Day each year.

The red ribbon has become the symbol for World AIDS Day. People wear the ribbon to show their concern and support for people living with HIV and their commitment to preventing HIV infection.