Australia is facing a surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV cases rising significantly. The Royal College of Pathologists (RCPA) has warned that antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea is increasing rapidly, complicating treatment protocols. In New South Wales alone, gonorrhoea cases rose by almost 20% between 2022 and 2023, and are continuing to climb this year.
Dr Christine Selvey, NSW Health’s director of communicable diseases, noted that resistant cases to first-line antibiotics such as azithromycin or ceftriaxone are a particular concern. The RCPA highlighted that reduced condom use across various demographics is a key factor, alongside decreased concern about infection and gaps in sexual education during the pandemic.
Syphilis rates have also surged, especially congenital syphilis, which increased from two cases in 2014 to 20 last year. Associate Professor Caitlin Keighley, RCPA spokesperson, stressed that low testing rates mean many infections go undiagnosed, leading to severe health complications and further transmission. The Kirby Institute reports that gonorrhoea diagnoses doubled from 2013 to 2022, while syphilis cases tripled.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities face disproportionately high STI rates, with gonorrhoea and syphilis prevalence more than five times higher than non-Indigenous Australians. The RCPA calls for culturally sensitive health promotion and testing initiatives. Regular STI testing is urged to curb the spread and prevent congenital infections with devastating outcomes.
