Effective partnership and adequate investment underpin a successful response: key factors in dealing with HIV increases.

Background: Australia has mounted an effective response to HIV and AIDS by investing in evidence-informed policy. Recently, in response to increases in HIV in some states in Australia, the New South Wales Department of Health set up a 'think tank' to examine differences in epidemiological and behavioural data, policies, strategies and community responses in order to account for state-based differences and ensure an effective ongoing response to HIV.

Methods: The National Centre in HIV Social Research undertook key informant interviews with major stakeholders to help understand differences in responses by the three states most affected by HIV in Australia - Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.