Make STI testing your Beforeplay

STIs are common – 1 in 6 people will get an STI in their lifetime.

This month we launched a new national campaign, ‘Beforeplay’.

The campaign raises awareness of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) among young people, and the need for regular testing and using protection.

Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI. They occur when viruses, bacteria or parasites are passed on through unprotected vaginal, oral and anal sex, and skin-to-skin contact.

The best way to protect you and your partner(s) is to always use protection and get regular sexual health checks.

Learn how to protect yourself and get a checkup

If you’ve had chickenpox before, you can get shingles.

Shingles is a viral infection that can be really nasty, especially if you’re older or your immune system is weak. 

If you’re aged 65 or over, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander aged 50 or over; or an immunocompromised adult with an eligible medical condition, you can get the shingles vaccine for free. 

Conditions apply for those who have received the shingles vaccine Zostavax® previously. 

Talk to your health professional about your eligibility today.

Learn more about the shingles vaccination.

Add vaccinations to your back-to-school checklist

Whether your child goes to school or childcare, disease and illness can spread easily.

By vaccinating your child, you can prevent them from catching serious diseases.

The National Immunisation Program provides vaccines to babies and children for free.

Check your child’s vaccination status or have a chat with your GP.

Learn more about the free routine immunisations

Where to find COVID-19 health infomation and advise

Health Direct website and helpline (1800 022 222) for symptoms, testing, isolation, long COVID, and recovery.

Service Finder for COVID-19 vaccine providers in Australia. Compare clinics, check availability, and book an appointment. The service is available in 15 languages and can be filtered by telehealth or accessibility needs.

Symptom Checker if you have COVID-19 symptoms to find out if you need medical help.

Get COVID-19 information and more