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Sex means different things to different people. Our gender identities, sexual orientations, preferences, and number of partners all shape how we experience sex, and what we need to stay healthy.

For information on sexual diversity and tailored support for the LGBTQIA+ community, visit �ʹڲ�Ʊ’s LGBTQIA+ Community page.

What is Safe Sex?

Safe sex means taking steps to protect both your physical and emotional wellbeing during sexual activity. This includes preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), avoiding unwanted pregnancy, and ensuring all partners feel safe, respected, and comfortable.

Condoms are key.

Male and female condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against both STIs and pregnancy. They’re highly effective when used correctly, check out this for step-by-step instructions.

Other contraception options.

There are many other types of contraception that can help prevent pregnancy. The Health Service has doctors available to support you in choosing the option that’s right for you.

Before speaking with a doctor, it can be helpful to review ��to get familiar with the different methods available.

Vaccines can protect you from certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – transmitted through skin-to-skin contact

• Hepatitis B – spread through infected bodily fluids

It’s ideal to get vaccinated before becoming sexually active, but if you haven’t yet, it’s still worth getting protected.

Additional vaccines for some groups

Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Monkeypox are also recommended for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

Where to get vaccinated

You can access these vaccinations at the �ʹڲ�Ʊ Health Service.

Find out what’s available and how to book an appointment by visiting the �ʹڲ�Ʊ Health Service vaccinations page.

Why It matters

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more common than you might think, especially among young people. Many STIs don’t show any symptoms, but if left untreated, they can lead to serious long-term health issues like infertility.

That’s why regular testing is so important.

When should I get tested?

• Every 6 to 12 months once you’re sexually active

• When you change sexual partners

• If you’ve had unprotected sex or your condom breaks

What’s involved in an STI check?

STI testing is confidential, quick, and usually includes:

• A urine test

• Swabs (anal/oral if needed)

• A blood test

Most STIs are easy to treat when diagnosed early, so don’t put it off.

STI testing is accessible and affordable

It's covered by Medicare and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and available through �ʹڲ�Ʊ Health Service, your local GP, and sexual health clinics. You can also access HIV rapid testing on campus via��MyTest.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but try not to panic. There are steps you can take to protect your health and wellbeing.

1. Concerned about HIV?

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, see a doctor immediately to ask about PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). It must be started within 72 hours to be effective.

2. Need to prevent pregnancy?

If you're at risk of pregnancy, visit your nearest pharmacy and ask for emergency contraception (the morning after pill). It’s most effective the sooner you take it.

There are two types available in Australia:

• One works up to 72 hours (3 days) after sex.
• The other can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after sex.

You can find a pharmacy on campus at the Pharmacy @ �ʹڲ�Ʊ.

3. Get tested for STIs

Book an STI check as soon as possible.

Want to learn more?

Visit ��to better understand your options.

PrEP: Are You Prepared?

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication that helps prevent HIV. It’s commonly used by people who have regular unprotected sex, and in relationships where one partner is HIV-positive and the other is not.��Talk to your doctor about how best to use PrEP.

If you have a Medicare card

Australian residents with a Medicare card can access PrEP at a discounted price through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Any GP can write a script, which you can fill at your local pharmacy. Keep in mind you may need to pay for your doctor’s visit if they don’t offer bulk billing.

If you don’t have a Medicare card

International students and non-residents can still access PrEP through alternative options. You can:

• Visit to explore online ordering and telehealth options

• Call ACON on (02) 9206 2000 for personalised support

• Call the NSW PrEP Infoline on 1800 451 624

• Visit the for more information on accessing PrEP without Medicare

Worried about HIV exposure?

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency medication that helps prevent HIV if taken within 72 hours after potential exposure. Learn more by visiting .

HIV Testing

HIV is detected through a blood test and is included as part of a comprehensive STI check. For gay and bisexual men, and other men who have sex with men, testing is recommended every 3 months.

You can book a comprehensive STI check through �ʹڲ�Ʊ Health Service, your local GP, or a sexual health clinic.��Free rapid HIV tests are also available on campus through��MyTest.