PALS – Positive AOD Life Support

A peer-led, stigma-free project for people living with HIV to talk, learn, and lead around alcohol and other drugs.

What is PALS?

PALS – Positive AOD Life Support is a QPP initiative funded by Queensland Mental Health Commission and supported by University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), that’s all about supporting people living with HIV to have open, real conversations about alcohol and other drugs (AOD).

Where can I find out more?

We’ve created harm reduction resources that reflect our lived experiences. We’ve worked hand in hand with our communities to help us do it. You can read more about PALS here, and if you are a service or organisation that would like to stock some of our printed resources you can order them at the QPP Shop or contact us to see how we can work together.

Get involved: join a workshop

We’re hosting in person peer-led workshops across Queensland in November 2026.

In these safe, confidential spaces, we’ll:

• Talk openly about AOD and HIV
• Share insights, strategies, and stories

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.

Social Connection

Spending time with friends and family, and spending time in group and community activities improves mental and general health. QPP even has social groups that you can join and meet new people.

Staying Healthy

By keeping your body as healthy as possible, it’s much better equipped to fight off viruses and other types of infections.

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.