NEW Queensland Syphilis Action Plan 2023-2028

• In summary, Queensland saw a significant increase in syphilis cases in 2023, with over 1,300 reported compared to just over 300 in 2013.
• The Chief Health Officer of the state suggests that the actual prevalence is likely higher due to undiagnosed cases.
• Moving forward, the state government has allocated an initial $1 million towards efforts to eradicate new cases of congenital syphilis.

In response to the syphilis notifications in Queensland increasing 7-fold from 2001 to 2022, on February 14, 2024, the Hon Shannon Fentiman, Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services, as well as Minister for Women, unveiled the Queensland Syphilis Action Plan 2023–2028.

This five-year initiative by the government aims to eradicate syphilis by 2028. The plan outlines a comprehensive strategy for collaboration among Queensland Health services, primary care providers, governmental bodies, and community partners to combat infectious syphilis and eradicate congenital syphilis. Priority populations identified in the plan include First Nations peoples, women of reproductive age (15-44 years), and gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men.

Access the Syphilis Action Plan 2023–2028 below.