Member Associations

HERA (the Health Education and Research Association) was founded in 2000 as a volunteer’s movement of university students. It was in response to the country’s need for improved HIV education and treatment and for better care for people living with HIV. Since its beginnings HERA recognized the need to integrate HIV activities and services into broader sexual and reproductive health (SRH) provision. Today HERA is a leading national NGO working in the field of HIV and sexual and reproductive health and rights. HERA focuses on national and international advocacy for comprehensive and right-based policies and programmes on HIV and sexual and reproductive health. It particularly advocates for sexuality education and for a women’s right to choose and access to safe abortion services.

The Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia (SH&FPA) is a non grant-receiving Associate and also functions as a federation that comprises sexual health and family planning organizations across the country. It is the national voice of these organizations and represents their interests and perspectives at national and international levels. Projects are shared among these member organizations within Australia and outside of the country, SH&FPA works in partnership primarily with sister IPPF Member Associations. SH&FPA maintains a dynamic international programme in South East Asia and the Pacific. The major strategies of the programme are focused on enhancing the management and delivery of sexual and reproductive health care and education delivered by or with local organizations in a sustainable setting. AusAID funds most of this work. For up to 80 years, SH&FPA member organizations in each state and territory have looked after the sexual and reproductive health needs of a large number of Australians. SH&FPA member organizations provide a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services that focus on prevention, early intervention, diagnosis and treatment, and community and professional education. Member organizations deliver clinical services, which include pap smears, breast checks, sexually transmitted infection (STI) checks and counselling services (including HIV), consultations, counselling and provision of contraceptives, pregnancy tests and counselling, treatment and counselling for menopause problems, and information and education services for the public around reproduction, contraceptive methods and relationships and self-esteem. Website: https://www.shfpact.org.au/