Free Hepatitis C Testing and Peer Support at World Hepatitis Day Event

World Hepatitis Day is recognised globally as an opportunity to raise awareness around hepatitis and encourage testing and harm reduction. On 28 July 2025, Starting Point Neighbourhood House organised a local event in Launceston, Tasmania, focused on supporting community members and families with hepatitis C information and access to services.

Increasing Awareness and Access

The event provided free, confidential hepatitis C testing for anyone in the community. This ensured people could check their health status without concerns about privacy or cost. Many people in the local area who may otherwise avoid or delay testing had a welcoming and familiar place to receive this essential health service.

Emily and Jo from the Tasmanian Users Health & Support League (TUHSL) attended the event as peer supporters. Their role was to speak with community members about hepatitis C, discuss harm reduction strategies, and share information on where to find additional support. By having peer advocates on-site, visitors could talk openly with people who understood their experiences, which helped some feel more comfortable asking questions or considering next steps.

Direct Community Benefits

Starting Point Neighbourhood House’s involvement made it easier for locals to engage with health services in a setting they already trust. People who might be hesitant about seeking testing through mainstream medical services were able to access what they needed in a non-judgmental environment. This approach contributed to a sense of inclusion among those who often face barriers, making it more likely that people would use available healthcare and support.

The event also offered an opportunity for participants to better understand hepatitis C, including how it can be prevented and treated. Community members left with practical information and knew where to access further assistance if required. For some, having a conversation with TUHSL’s peer staff made the experience feel less daunting and more relevant to their real lives.

Overall, the World Hepatitis Day event delivered by Starting Point Neighbourhood House was a targeted effort to bring essential health services directly to Launceston residents, especially those who may not otherwise access them. Through free testing, peer-led conversations, and practical harm reduction advice, the event quietly contributed to the wellbeing of individuals and the broader local community.