Thousands of Australians received infected blood, over decades. Now they’ll have their say
Thousands of Australians unwittingly contracted HIV and hepatitis C before donated blood was routinely tested. Could a new Senate inquiry mean fairer compensation?
Between the 1970s and 1990s, an estimated 3,500-8,500 Australians became infected with HIV or hepatitis C through contaminated blood or blood products. The precise figure remains uncertain, with the possibility of a higher number. Many who contracted HIV through blood products may have passed away without realizing they had been infected.
Financial compensation was provided to some, particularly those with HIV, but not to those with hepatitis C virus. The inquiry into this matter will allow affected individuals, their partners, children, parents, and carers to provide testimony and discuss potential compensation.
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