Free HIV self-testing kits
Free HIV self-testing kits are available for collection at the Parkville campus.
As part of the CONNECT project, the University of Melbourne and Thorne Harbour Health have partnered to provide free HIV self-testing kits at the University of Melbourne Parkville campus.
The free HIV self-testing kits are available for collection via vending machine on level 1 of the Arts and Cultural Building (159).
The CONNECT vending machine is directly accessible from the Arts and Cultural Building’s north entrance, adjacent to Monash Road. Once inside the Arts and Cultural Building, the vending machine can be located near the entrance to the first-floor toilets.
To collect your kit, scan the QR code on the vending machine or visit the CONNECT website to register.
What does registration involve?
Registration is quick and easy. You’ll be asked to answer a few demographic questions and provide a phone number.
All information you provide is deidentified and stored in accordance with Australia data storage legislation: it won’t be linked with your Unimelb student record in any way.
What is HIV?
HIV is short for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a type of virus which attacks your immune system and can be spread in the following ways:
- Unprotected (condomless) sex
- Sharing drug-injecting equipment (e.g. needles and syringes)
- From mother to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.
To learn more about HIV, including the highly effective prevention and treatment methods available, visit the CONNECT website.
How do I know if I should test for HIV?
For most people, it is recommended to get tested at least once a year. Some people may need to test more often.
You can speak to your doctor for further advice on HIV testing frequency and management of your sexual health.
Where can I speak with someone about HIV testing and sexual health?
- University of Melbourne students and staff can seek sexual health advice and treatment from doctors at the University Health Service.
- All Victorians, including those who don’t qualify for Medicare, can obtain comprehensive sexual health services from the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre.
- General health care for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, as well as specialist medical care for those living with HIV, can be provided by Thorne Harbour Health.
Need help?
You can contact the Health Promotion Program at health-promotion@unimelb.edu.au.
If you have any trouble accessing a CONNECT HIV self-test kit, or have any questions, you can contact the CONNECT team via the CONNECT website.
The CONNECT project is funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.