HIV and AIDS
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is caused by infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).
AIDS occurs some time (often years) after an infection with HIV.
Some HIV positive people do not develop AIDS.
Further information on risk of infection is available on the NSW Health website.
HIV is not spread through casual contact at school, home or the work place.
Students learn about risks of infection and prevention within Years 7-10, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education.
Universal precautions for infection control are adopted in all work places including schools.
There are specific provisions within the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act indicating that people must not be discriminated against because of their HIV/AIDS status.
Parents/carers and students are under no obligation to disclose the student’s HIV status.
Related information
NSW Health HIV infection fact sheet