World AIDS Day is an international day that began in 1988. It’s held on 1 December each year to help raise awareness about HIV and AIDS.  

United Nations AIDS (UNAIDS) is the international body leading the global effort to end HIV/AIDS. From its creation in 1988, UNAIDS led the annual campaign for World AIDS Day until 2004.  

From 2004, the World AIDS Campaign’s Global Steering Committee has selected the annual international World AIDS Day theme. Countries may also set a national World AIDS Day theme. 

In Australia, it is a day for the community to: 

• show their support for people living with HIV
• raise awareness about prevention, treatment and care 
• eliminate stigma and discrimination around HIV 
• remember people who have died of AIDS-related illnesses.