2023 has been another exceptional year. In fact, it marks our 40th year in operation. Initially established in 1983 as the ACT AIDS Action Committee, our organisation was formed by a group of gay men living in Canberra to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the region.
This group then formalised and incorporated in 1986 as the AIDS Action Council of the ACT. Within a year of opening our doors, we recognised the need to work closely with the many communities impacted by the epidemic, and we gradually established specific projects for gay men, lesbian women, trans and gender diverse people, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and people with haemophilia.
We now stand proudly as Meridian, acknowledging that from the very beginning, our organisation has been founded on the strengths of lived experience and connection to community. We’ve continued to evolve and expand in response to the epidemic and community needs, developing and contributing to a robust evidence-base for community awareness, information, and advocacy. Today, Meridian is an LGBTIQA+ peer-led community-controlled organisation that provides health and social support services to our communities. We celebrate diversity, strengthen
community, and empower individuals to live their best lives.
This year we’ve built capacity in the healthy ageing and disability space, launching a program to support vulnerable older people with navigation services, as well as two disability pilot programs.
Our work has taken us into the Capital region, with our aged care navigation services now being provided across southern NSW.