As part of our aim to make sexual health testing accessible for everyone, UNSW is working with NSW Health to provide free HIV self-tests to students and staff.
MyTest is a NSW Health initiative where you can get up to four free HIV tests. It’s here to support anyone who hasn’t had a HIV test before or might have barriers to access such as health insurance, Medicare eligibility, or cost.
UNSW is one of nine sites across NSW to have a MyTest machine so anyone can get tested privately and confidentially.
Where to access a free MyTest Kit
You can find MyTest at the UNSW Kensington Campus on the northern end of the ground floor Morven Brown Study Space, opposite the toilets.
Simply scan the QR code on the machine to register your details and receive a MyTest kit. Each MyTest kit has a TGA-approved self-administered HIV test, which normally retails for around $30.
Anyone can get HIV and should consider testing if they are sexually active.
Frequently asked questions
Why test?
Regular sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing helps detect STIs to get appropriate treatments. In most cases, STIs are treatable and preventable, so it’s essential get tested if you are sexually active. We encourage STI testing as a normal and important part of your health check-up routine.
HIV infection can make someone more susceptible to serious infections because of a weakened immune system. Over time, it can develop into AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) if left untreated.
It can take up to three months for signs and symptoms of HIV to present, and most people with HIV don’t have symptoms. In this time, it can easily be passed onto someone else with unprotected sex.
Early detection and treatment are essential for your health.
What is HIV?
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is an STI. It can be passed on between people by unprotected vaginal or oral sex. This includes sex without a condom or use of PrEP (preventative medicine).
When someone is infected, HIV attacks then weakens the immune system, which makes it harder for the body to fight off other infections. Most people with HIV don't have symptoms, and noticeable symptoms can vary between people.
If left untreated, they can cause a range of signs and symptoms. Over time, unmanaged HIV infection can develop into AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), which makes someone more susceptible to serious infections, cancer or neurological problems.
These days, if you are living with HIV and take treatment as prescribed, it is unlikely to develop into AIDS and you can live a long and healthy life.
More information about testing and prevention is available on the MyTest and ACON websites.
How long is MyTest available for?
The MyTest is currently available at UNSW until July 2025. Should this be extended in the future, information will be updated here.
What is in a MyTest kit?
The MyTest kit contains:
- 1x Atomo HIV self-test kit with instructions
- 2 x condoms
- 2 x sachets of lubricant
- 1x information card that links community members to support services and provides information on HIV prevention.
The MyTest kit comes in discreet packaging that does not reference HIV or sexual health.
Inside the test kit box you will find the HIV testing kit, a buffer, a disposal bag, instruction on how to use the test and a follow up information card.
How do I use the test?
The test is simple and takes about 15 minutes to get results. Instructions can be found on the MyTest website.
What happens if I test positive?
While the HIV self-test is extremely accurate, if your result is positive, you will need to follow up and get a blood test with a doctor to confirm your result.
If your result is confirmed positive by your doctor, they will talk to you about the next steps, including treatment, talking to your loved ones and other important things you need to know.
You can book an appointment at the UNSW Health Service to discuss, or visit other health clinics such as:
- Sydney Sexual Health Clinic: (02) 9382 7440
- Kirketon Road Centre: (02) 9360 2766
- The Albion Centre: (02) 9332 9600
If you have tested positive for HIV, it is important you:
- don't ignore the result,
- start treatment for HIV as soon as possible. HIV treatment is free for all people in NSW (no Medicare card required),
- connect with a doctor you trust,
- practise safe sex, and
- remember that HIV can be managed.
What support services are available for people living with HIV?
There are many resources and services out there to support people living with HIV. If you have confirmed a positive result with your doctor, you can reach out to the following:
- Positive Life, a peer-led body that advocates for and supports all people living with HIV
- ACON, who have a great range of support options including workshops, counselling, peer support and fact sheets
- UNSW Psychology and Wellness, for mental health counselling
- UNSW Health Service, to discuss testing, prevention and more
- NSW Sexual Health Infolink, call 1800 451 624 to speak to a nurse
Is my information shared with UNSW?
All data is confidential and private and is kept with NSW Health. Only de-identified, aggregate data is shared with UNSW Health & Wellbeing.