Hepatitis C is a major public health challenge linked to profound discrimination, including in law and policy. Significantly improved treatments called direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) were introduced in 2016, with the ability to cure hepatitis C in over 95 percent of cases. The Australian Government has invested billions of dollars in DAAs, setting the ambitious goal of achieving virtual elimination of hepatitis C in Australia by 2030. However, questions remain about the stigma and discrimination faced by people who have undergone treatment, and those who continue to be affected by hepatitis C.

This project reviews the laws, policies and practices that impact people with hepatitis C in Australia, identifying opportunities for reform that may reduce experiences of stigma and discrimination. It explores people’s experience of new treatments, and their experience of life post-cure, including whether hepatitis C-related stigma and discrimination persists and which forces shape ongoing stigma and discrimination. The project is aimed at supporting better legal, social and policy outcomes for Australians cured of hepatitis C.

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