Emphasizing Leadership & Impact

Community-Led HIV Outreach in PNG: Peer Support at the Frontline

KPAC PNG leads a dynamic peer outreach program across the National Capital District, placing community leadership at the heart of the HIV response. Outreach is delivered by trained peers from key population communities, ensuring services are accessible, trusted, and responsive to the real needs of those most affected by HIV.

Through door to door engagement, community visits, and settlement outreach, peer workers provide vital information on HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care. They distribute condoms and lubricants, promote PrEP, support safer practices, and link individuals directly to friendly health facilities for testing and counselling, and provide peer testing.

The current peer-led outreach program in NCD is funded by the Australian Government, via Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS).

Empowerment-Focused

Advocates, Role Models, Changemakers: The Impact of Peer Workers in HIV Response

Peer outreach workers are more than educators. They are advocates and role models, offering confidential support and creating safe spaces for dialogue. Their lived experience means they can break down stigma and build trust, connecting people who might otherwise be excluded from services.

In NCD, this peer driven approach is already making a significant impact. Communities are reporting stronger awareness, increased uptake of HIV services, and a growing sense of ownership in shaping the health response. KPAC continues to strengthen this model through training, data collection, and close collaboration with government and health partners, ensuring outreach is sustainable and effective.