Hepatitis B Free Ltd

Hepatitis B Free Ltd is an Australian non-profit organisation and registered charity dedicated to combating hepatitis B both within Australia and internationally. The organisation operates with a mission to educate the public, improve access to healthcare services, provide hope, and advocate for individuals and communities affected by hepatitis B.

Background

Hepatitis B Free focuses on addressing hepatitis B, a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus that affects over 240 million people worldwide. The virus can lead to acute and chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and is a leading cause of liver cancer. The organisation’s work is particularly significant given the global burden of the disease and its long-term health consequences.

Mission and Objectives

The core mission of Hepatitis B Free is to work towards a world free of hepatitis by:

• Educating communities about hepatitis B to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
• Enhancing access to hepatitis B testing, vaccination, and medical care.
• Advocating for improved healthcare policies and programs addressing hepatitis B.
• Supporting research and development of hepatitis B guidelines related to testing and treatment.

Programs and Activities

Hepatitis B Free undertakes various projects and initiatives across Australia as well as in regions of Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. These projects include:

• Expansion of hepatitis education programs.
• Implementation of point-of-care (POC) testing to improve early diagnosis.
• Development and dissemination of hepatitis B testing and treatment guidelines.
• Delivering hepatitis B vaccination programs and facilitating outpatient medical care.

The organisation is continuously involved in outreach and support efforts aimed at vulnerable populations and those disproportionately affected by hepatitis B, with the goal of eliminating the disease by 2030.

Governance and Team

Hepatitis B Free is driven by a team of dedicated volunteers from diverse professional backgrounds including medicine, nursing, law, pharmacy, and academia. The leadership includes co-founders and directors such as Alice Lee and Sue Huntley, supported by medical officers and volunteers who contribute clinical expertise and hands-on support in various programs.

Key leadership roles include:

• Alice Lee – Co-Founder & Director
• Sue Huntley – Co-Founder, Director & Compliance Officer
• Kar Chua – Director & Treasurer
• David Hilmers – Chief Medical Officer
• Melissa Kermeen – Secretary & Treasurer

The organisation benefits from the involvement of healthcare professionals and community advocates who contribute to both local and international efforts.

Impact and Advocacy

Hepatitis B Free is recognized for its commitment to communicable disease control through hepatitis testing, vaccination, and improved access to treatments. Its programs align with national health priorities and global targets to reduce hepatitis-related morbidity and mortality.

By advancing education, supporting screening initiatives, and advocating for policy improvements, Hepatitis B Free plays an important role in Australia’s broader effort to address viral hepatitis and supports elimination strategies promoted by health authorities.

Hepatitis B Free Ltd is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and operates under the ABN 25167817389RR0001.

[1] https://www.hepatitisbfree.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/254b724a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077 [3] https://www.hepatitisbfree.org.au/current-members [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/254b724a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/f2db100b-c434-ee11-bdf4-002248935564 [5] https://www.hepatitisaustralia.com