The Deadly Sex NSW Forum 2026, held on 17-18 March, brought together a powerful and diverse group of health workers, community leaders, researchers, and advocates from across New South Wales. Over two days, the forum created a culturally grounded space for connection, knowledge sharing, and reflection on how to strengthen sexual health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The forum opened with a Welcome to Country from Aunty Maxine Ryan, setting the tone for a gathering centred in respect, culture, and community leadership. From the outset, it was clear that this was more than a conference, it was a space to yarn, learn, and collectively shape the future of sexual health in NSW.
A keynote presentation by Professor James Ward explored the trajectory of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) into the 2030s. His session reflected on past progress, current challenges, and the urgent need for sustained, community-led responses to improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Throughout Day 1, practical examples of innovation and service delivery were front and centre. Presenters from Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation shared their work on implementing a service-wide action plan to increase STI testing and follow-up, highlighting the importance of locally driven solutions. Similarly, insights from NSW Sexual Health Info Link reinforced the value of accessible clinical support, while The Kirby Institute presented on community-led molecular point-of-care testing, demonstrating the impact of evidence-based, culturally appropriate innovation.
A standout feature of the forum was the emphasis on peer learning and dialogue. Tabletop knowledge sharing sessions allowed participants to exchange experiences and strategies in a more informal, relational way reflecting the strength of collective knowledge across the sector.
Day 2 shifted the focus toward stigma, representation, and workforce wellbeing. A powerful session from Sex Workers Outreach Project challenged stigma surrounding sex work and transactional sex within communities, calling for more inclusive and respectful approaches. This was complemented by presentations from NSW Users and AIDS Association (NUAA) and Positive Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Network (PATSIN), which highlighted the importance of peer-led responses and culturally safe engagement with priority populations.
Other sessions tackled critical topics such as cultural safety, inclusive language, and representation. The panel discussion on health promotion for priority groups brought together diverse voices to explore how services can better meet the needs of communities often left marginalised.
Importantly, the forum also made space to reflect on the realities of the workforce. Conversations about being the “cultural packhorse” resonated strongly, acknowledging the additional cultural load often carried by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, and emphasising the importance of boundaries, support, and sustainability.
Across both days, the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council and Deadly Sex Committee curated a program that balanced data, practice, and lived experience. The inclusion of networking opportunities, a community dinner, and the Deadly Sex NSW Awards further reinforced the importance of relationship-building and celebrating the sector’s achievements.
Ultimately, the Deadly Sex NSW Forum 2026 demonstrated the strength and commitment of those working in sexual health across the state. By centring community voices, cultural knowledge, and peer leadership, the forum plays a vital role in shaping a more equitable and effective sexual health response for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in NSW.