AOD Co-designed Resources
Empowering PLHIV Through AOD Prevention: A Community-Led Initiative
At Queensland Positive People (QPP), we believe that everyone deserves access to the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. That’s why we’ve launched an exciting new project focused on Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) prevention for people living with HIV (PLHIV).
Why This Project Matters
Did you know that PLHIV are at a higher risk of experiencing challenges with alcohol and other drugs compared to the general population? Despite this, there are very few prevention resources tailored specifically for PLHIV. Many PLHIV may face a double stigma, experiencing discrimination and judgment due to both their HIV status and their use of alcohol or other drugs. We know that stigma can be a barrier to accessing support, as fear of judgment may prevent people from reaching out for the help they need.
Our AOD Prevention Project aims to change this by creating resources designed with and for the PLHIV community. These resources will address the unique needs of PLHIV, focusing on enhancing AOD health literacy, promoting positive behaviours, and improving understanding of AOD-related harm and safety. They will also build resilience and provide practical, stigma-free tools to support health and wellbeing
How We’re Making It Happen
This isn’t just a project—it’s a collaboration. We’re working closely with the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) to ensure that everything we do is grounded in evidence and best practices. Together, we’re reviewing the latest research on AOD prevention, benchmarking against existing resources and supports, and exploring what works.
But the real experts are the PLHIV community. That’s why the heart of this project lies in co-design. This process will bring together the ideas of people with lived experience, community members, sector experts, and relevant organisations to contribute their insights. This will culminate in co-design workshops, where we will work alongside PLHIV to collaboratively shape and develop resources that truly reflect their needs, values, and experiences.
What’s Next?
We’re planning workshops in both urban and regional areas, as well as online, to ensure everyone has a chance to contribute. Whether in-person or online sessions, we’ll make it easy for people to get involved. These workshops will also be a space to learn about AOD prevention, connect with others, and help shape resources that will make a real difference.
Once developed, the resources will be shared widely, through Peer Navigators, online platforms, clinics and community organisations, ensuring they reach as many people as possible.
Join Us on This Journey
This project is about building a brighter future together. By addressing the gaps in AOD prevention and creating resources that are relevant and accessible, we’re empowering PLHIV to make informed choices, reduce harm, and lead healthier lives.
We’d love for you to be part of this journey. Whether you’re a community member, an organisation, or an ally, your voice matters. Let’s work together to create something that makes an impact.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, please reach out to us at mgomez@qpp.org.au. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Funded by the Queensland Mental Health Commission
This project has been made possible thanks to the support of the Queensland Mental Health Commission, who is responsible for driving reform of the mental health, alcohol and other drug and suicide prevention systems.
They encourage and facilitate change to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders, with a focus on promoting positive mental health and wellbeing, and preventing and reducing the impact of mental ill-health, alcohol and other drug-related harms and suicide. Find out more at qmhc.qld.gov.au.
Smoking, Drugs & Alcohol
Smoking, alcohol and drug overuse can contribute to feelings of depression, and have negative impacts to your body, but help is available.
Mental Health
It is not uncommon for people to experience unhappiness, distress, anxiety or depression at some point, but there are a lot of other things you can do to look after your mental health and wellbeing.
Peer Navigation
Early intervention program to support those newly diagnosed with HIV and those re-engaging with care to navigate the complex environment of HIV care and treatment.
Our trained team is here to help you should you have any questions or need support. You can call for free from a Queensland land-line on 1800 636 241 or call (07) 3013 5555 (national). You can also email us or use the contact form or the chat function in the corner of our website.
