In the lead-up to World Hepatitis Day our CEO, Sarah Ahmed has been actively engaging with media across Canberra to spotlight the importance of hepatitis testing, awareness, and access to care for communities who need it most.
Sarah recently joined 2CC Radio to talk about why it’s vital to know your hepatitis B and hepatitis C status. In the interview, she encouraged the community to prioritise liver health and outlined the simple steps available to get tested locally.
“We know that hepatitis B and C can often go undiagnosed for years without symptoms,” said Sarah. “Testing is quick, free, confidential and it’s the first step towards treatment, better health, and ultimately, hepatitis elimination.”
She explained that people can get tested through local health services, GP clinics, and Hepatitis ACT’s own outreach and support programs. Whether it’s through finger-prick testing, dry blood spot testing, or standard pathology, there are multiple low-barrier pathways available across the ACT.
📻 Listen to Sarah’s interview on 2CC: Breakfast at 7:25am
A New Pilot Program for Hepatitis C Testing in the Justice System
Sarah also spoke to WIN News Canberra and Mix 106.3 FM about the new pilot program launched in partnership with ACT Corrective Services, providing free hepatitis C testing at Community Corrections.
This initiative is one of the first of its kind in the ACT and represents a major step forward in reaching people in contact with the justice system who are often at higher risk and face additional barriers to care.
“This is a critical step towards hepatitis C elimination in the ACT, particularly for people in contact with the justice system,” said Sarah. “This pilot reflects low-barrier, person-centred care and we do this without judgement.”
This program is a tangible reflection of Hepatitis ACT’s mission: removing stigma, expanding access, and building trust with those who have historically been excluded from traditional healthcare settings.
🎥 Watch the WIN News coverage of the new Pilot Program: Win News at 5:30pm
📡 Hear more on Mix 106.3 FM: 12:00pm News at 12:02 Noon
Keeping Momentum Beyond World Hepatitis Day
These media appearances were part of a broader awareness campaign marking World Hepatitis Day earlier this week, a time to reflect on progress made and renew our commitment to eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
With media coverage reaching across Canberra’s airwaves and news outlets, Sarah’s voice is helping ensure that hepatitis remains part of the public conversation not just on World Hepatitis Day, but all year round.