Our QPP Patron
2024 Statement from QPP Patron – The Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG
For a number of years, I have been honoured to serve as Patron of Queensland Positive People (QPP). Once again, I am glad to provide support for QPP and the HOPE Fund for the work and support that they have given for people living with HIV and AIDS. That work has extended through scientific, social and community activities. It is ongoing. It deserves support.
QPP continues to reach out to different political parties in order to seek bipartisan support for people living with HIV and AIDS. As in the past, it has generally proved possible to obtain bipartisan commitments. This is a tribute to our politicians; but also to the Queensland community for the type of society it now is.
May it long remain that way. Disagreeing where necessary. Agreeing where essential.
The Queensland Law Reform Commission has been involved in a review of provisions of the Queensland Criminal Code regarding queries concerning the transmission of, and exposure to, serious disease. The implications of those provisions for the best possible health outcomes and the elimination of HIV transmission have guided QPP. So have international guidelines developed by such bodies as the World Health Organisation and the UNAIDS Reference Group on HIV and Human Rights.
There is no human right to spread dangerous diseases. However, the strategy for engaging with a community at risk has continued to guide the overall approach that has been followed in Australia since the arrival of the HIV pandemic. The review of the Criminal Code by the Queensland Law Reform Commission will begin in earnest on 1 July 2025. A final report is expected on 31 August 2026. The work and submissions of QPP will be tested amongst all groups concerned with the most effective strategies consistent with universal human rights. QPP will continue to contribute to a strengthening and effectiveness of legislation as supporting the community approach to HIV limitation.
Efforts by QPP to raise funds (always a difficult challenge in this area) have been addressed to the Department of Health (Queensland Health). Ultimately, support for these causes depends on civil society. We need to emphasise our common objectives as human beings and in Queensland civil society.
I extend good wishes and encouragement for the years ahead. And acknowledgement of all that has been achieved as outlined in this report.
The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG*
Patron – Queensland Positive People
*Former Justice of the High Court of Australia. Inaugural member of the WHO Global Commission on AIDS (1989-92); Commissioner of the UNDP Global Commission on HIV and the Law (2011-12); Member of the UNAIDS Expert Group on HIV and Human Rights (1996-2020).
The Honour Board
Our Honour Board recognises individuals from across the state for exceptional contributions made to the work and development of QPP
Our Board
All members of the QPP board are all people living with HIV, bringing their lived experience and diverse professional experiences to their roles.
Our Team
Meet our team of dedicated, skilled, and passionate professionals and community members that make QPP who we are.
Our Mission
Queensland Positive People’s mission is to improve the quality of life of people living with HIV, and help reduce new transmissions of HIV and STIs.
