Qwire Sponsors

With financial support from the Australian Capital Territory

Meridian is Canberra’s leading community-controlled organisation taking action to prevent HIV, improve the healthand wellbeing of people impacted by HIV and LGBTIQ+ people, and create safe and inclusive communities.

Meridian increases access to HIV and STI prevention, testing, and treatment. It conducts targeted health promotion activities, runs community events, and provides peer-led support services and activities for people living with and at risk of HIV.

Meridian works to improve the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people, sex workers and people who use drugs. From youth services, to peer navigation, disability and aged care programs, Meridian supports LGBTIQ+ people across their lifespans. Meridian’s Wellbeing Services provide high-quality, person-centred counselling and mental health supports. Additionally, Meridian provides education and training to increase understanding across the ACT about LGBTIQ+ communities and their health needs.

Meridian works with the community to celebrate and nurture their rich diversity and to strengthen their collective resilience against the adverse effects of stigma and discrimination and the impacts of minority stress.

Northside Community Service is a community-based, not for profit organisation established in 1976 through the efforts of concerned people wanting to provide and develop support and services for residents of North Canberra.

Today they employ over 200 staff, along with an active volunteer program and operate an annual budget of over $9 million. In responding to the needs of the community they currently deliver a diverse range of services, including: