Users on dating apps like Tinder and Grindr will be shown safe sex ads as part of the Federal Government’s first major STI awareness campaign in nearly 15 years.
The national campaign will run until March. It will also distribute promotional materials at universities, bars and clubs, and on social media.
Most sexually transmitted infections in Australia are detected in those aged 20-34.
STIs in Australia
About one-sixth of Australians will get an STI sometime in their life.
Syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea are all commonly diagnosed in Australia. There was a significant increase in each from 2015 to 2019.
Chlamydia was the most commonly reported STI in Australia in 2022 (93,777 cases). More than two-thirds were in people aged 15-29.
National STI campaign
The Government has called its campaign ‘Beforeplay’. It will be a series of ads targeted at improving sexual health among young Australians.
The campaign depicts safe sexual health behaviours through posters and TV ads. The materials display same-sex and heterosexual partners.
Federal Government intervention
The Federal Government hasn’t launched a major STI awareness campaign in almost 15 years.
Health Minister Mark Butler said displaying the material on dating apps and social media will ensure young Australians see the message.
Butler told media he is confident the campaign will lead to stronger health outcomes across the country, including a reduced stigma of STI testing and prevention.
