The Department of Human Services has released updated "Guidelines for the management in Victoria of people living with HIV who put others at risk 2006-2009". The aim of the guidelines, which have been endorsed by the Chief Health Officer, is to assist staff working with individuals whose behaviour may expose others to the risk of HIV transmission.

The guidelines outline a 5-stage process, starting with measures such as counselling and support, through to more restrictive and legally binding orders. As part of this staged approach, the Chief Health Officer has appointed a six-member Panel made up of persons independent of the DHS. The Panel provides advice to the Chief Health Officer in relation to the Chief Health Officer's powers (delegated by the Secretary) under Section 121 of the Health Act 1958.

To view or download the full text of the Guidelines or a summary of the main points please go to the Guidelines for the management in Victoria of people living with HIV who put others at risk page on the Infectious Diseases Epidemiology & Surveillance web site.

For further information please contact The Communicable Diseases Section of DHS:
Telephone: 1300 651 160
email: infectious.diseases@dhs.vic.gov.au