Sexual Health

Sexual Health Checks

What are they?

Sexual Health Check (SHC) is a check-up that involves assessment by a health professional for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and related issues. This usually involves blood, urine and swab tests.

These checks are not just about HIV, there are many other STI's that are prevalent in the Brisbane population, they can all have a significantly detrimental effect on your life.

Who should have a SHC?

Anyone who has ever had sex, including vaginal, oral and anal sex.

Many people:

  • do not consider themselves at risk;
  • do not protect themselves;
  • do not seek sexual health care

Common STI's are:

When?

  • at the end of a sexual relationship
  • before starting a new sexual relationship
  • after any unsafe sexual contact
  • if you think you may have an STI

Where?

There are many places to go.

Free, confidential HIV self-testing now available at QUT

This initiative is part of the national CONNECT Project, in partnership with Thorne Harbour Health and Queensland Positive People (QPP), and supports QUT’s commitment to sexual health, wellbeing, and accessibility.

How the Vending Machines Work

  1. Visit one of the HIV self-test vending machines in a QUT library.
    1. Kelvin Grove Library: R Block level 3
    2. Gardens Point Library: V Block level 2
  2. Scan the QR code on the machine to open the CONNECT website.
  3. Answer a few short questions (such as age, country of birth, and HIV testing history).
  4. You’ll receive a one-time code to enter into the machine and collect your free Atomo HIV self-test kit.

Using the Self-Test Kit

Each test kit includes clear instructions and links to online guides and videos. Information is available in English, Chinese, Indonesian, Malay, Spanish, Vietnamese, Arabic, and Hindi.

Test results:

  • Positive result: The test has detected something that requires follow-up. You should see a doctor to confirm your result.
  • Negative result: The test did not detect HIV, but if you may have been exposed within the last 3 months, it’s important to test again.
  • Invalid result: If the test doesn’t work, use another kit or arrange a follow-up appointment.

Medical Support and Follow-Up

If you would like to discuss your HIV test result, your sexual health, or prevention options such as PrEP, you can book a confidential appointment with a QUT doctor.

➡️ Book an appointment with the QUT Medical Centre

All appointments are confidential, and our clinicians can provide:

  • Advice on HIV testing and prevention
  • Confirmatory HIV testing
  • Information about PrEP (a daily pill that can help prevent HIV infection)
  • Guidance and referrals for further sexual health support

Additional Information and Support

  • CONNECT website: Scan the QR code on the vending machine or kit for multilingual information and instructional videos.
  • Queensland Positive People (QPP): For confidential support and information, email info@rapid.org.au or visit rapid.org.au.

Some useful links

Information about STIs in other languages