Hepatitis ACT Inc.

Hepatitis ACT Inc. is a not-for-profit, community-based organisation located in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT), dedicated to supporting and empowering people affected by viral hepatitis. Established as the leading viral hepatitis prevention, early intervention, and treatment service in the community sector in the ACT, Hepatitis ACT works to eliminate the transmission of viral hepatitis while reducing stigma and discrimination through support, advocacy, and education[2][3].

History

Originally known as the ACT Hepatitis C Council and later the ACT Hepatitis Resource Centre, Hepatitis ACT has evolved over time into an independent dedicated organisation serving the ACT region. Its development reflects an ongoing commitment to improving the lives of those impacted by hepatitis within the community. Before its establishment, individuals seeking hepatitis-related information had to rely on external organisations, but Hepatitis ACT now operates as a central local resource and advocate for affected individuals[3].

Mission and Vision

Hepatitis ACT's mission is to eliminate the transmission of viral hepatitis in its community and to reduce associated stigma and discrimination. The organisation achieves this through providing confidential, accessible support services, education programs, community advocacy, and distribution of evidence-informed resources. Its vision centers on enhancing the health and wellbeing of the community by striving towards the elimination of viral hepatitis[1][3].

Services and Programs

Hepatitis ACT offers a wide range of services designed to meet the unique needs of its community, including:

• Confidential support services for people affected by viral hepatitis
• Education sessions conducted in workplaces and community settings
• Referral and linkage to relevant health and community services
• Distribution of evidence-based hepatitis resources
• Advocacy at both community and systemic levels to address hepatitis-related issues and discrimination

The organisation provides a welcoming community space at its office in Canberra’s inner north, where individuals can access support, resources, and information[1][3].

Strategic Direction

In November 2024, Hepatitis ACT launched its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, outlining its long-term goals to improve liver health and wellbeing in the ACT and surrounding regions. This plan reinforces the organisation’s commitment to innovative service delivery and community engagement to tackle viral hepatitis comprehensively[1].

Collaboration and Network

Hepatitis ACT is part of a national network of state and territory hepatitis organisations in Australia, working collaboratively to advance viral hepatitis elimination goals. It aligns itself with national efforts and partners, including Hepatitis Australia, the peak national body advocating for people affected by hepatitis across the country[3][5].

Hepatitis ACT Inc. embodies a community-driven approach, combining expertise, compassion, and advocacy to create a stigma-free environment and empower those living with or at risk of viral hepatitis in the ACT.

[1] https://hepatitisact.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/ca90f5eb-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd [3] https://hepatitisact.org.au/about-us/ [4] https://www.hepatitisaustralia.com/members-and-supporters [5] https://www.hepatitisaustralia.com