Sexual health services closer to home for Snowy Mountains

The move comes as rates of syphilis continue to rise across Australia with a notable rise of infections noted in Southern NSW with a 78.3% increase in 2024 reminding us that sexual health is an important part of overall health and wellbeing - for everyone.

Sexual Health Clinical Nurse Consultant Chris Bailey-Mills says bringing free and accessible services to Jindabyne is about reducing barriers to care. 

“We know distance and stigma can both make it harder for people to get tested,” Chris says.

“By offering clinics in Jindabyne, we’re helping people look after their health in a way that’s private, respectful and local.” 

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacteria. It’s spread through sexual contact - including oral sex - and through close skin contact with a sore or rash caused by the infection.

Although it was once thought of as a disease of the past, syphilis has been steadily increasing in Australia over the last decade, especially among young heterosexual people and men who have sex with men.

“Syphilis can be sneaky,” Chris says. “Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, or they’re so mild people don’t realise what’s going on.”

Syphilis infections occur in stages. The first stage usually begins with a painless sore or ulcer on the genitals, anus or mouth, which may heal on its own. The second stage can include a rash on the torso, palms of the hands or soles of the feet, swollen glands, tiredness or flu-like symptoms.

If untreated, syphilis can move into a quiet, hidden phase for years before causing serious damage to the heart, brain and other organs. The good news is that syphilis is easily detected with a simple blood test and easily treated with antibiotics.

Testing is quick, confidential and free through the Sexual Health service. You don’t need a referral or Medicare card, and you can make an appointment directly with the nurse.

“Anyone who’s sexually active should consider regular STI testing, especially if they have new or multiple partners,” Chris explains. “It’s one of the simplest ways to take care of your health - and your partners’ health too.”

People can also ask their GP for syphilis testing, which is now recommended in a standard STI check.

While conversations about sexual health can still feel uncomfortable for some, Chris says it’s important to normalise testing and open discussion.

“There’s no shame in getting tested - it’s just good health practice,” he says. “We don’t judge anyone. Our job is to help people stay healthy, whatever that looks like for them.”

Chris and the team provide a safe and inclusive space for everyone, including LGBTQIA+ people, Aboriginal communities, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

For the Snowy Mountains community, having sexual health services closer to home means easier access to care - especially during the busy ski season when Jindabyne’s population swells.

“We want to make sure people living, working or visiting the region can get the right information, the right testing and the right treatment when they need it,” Chris says.

The Sexual Health team runs clinics across Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW Local Health Districts. Appointments are free and confidential, and you do not need a Medicare Card.