Australia’s HIV Immigration Policy
Generally, Australia does not have a blanket ban on people living with HIV. However, all applicants for permanent or long-term temporary visas must meet the "Migration Health Requirement." The decision usually comes down to two main factors:

The "Significant Cost" Threshold: The Australian government calculates the projected cost of your healthcare (including ART medications and doctor visits) over a set period. If the estimated cost exceeds a specific limit (currently around $51,000 AUD), the visa may be denied.

Prejudice to Access: They also look at whether your treatment would take away medical resources from Australian citizens (for example, if a specific treatment is in very short supply).

The Offshore Sector Challenge
Working in the offshore sector (oil rigs, maritime vessels, etc.) adds an extra layer of difficulty due to the nature of the work:

Remote Location Medicals: Offshore companies often have their own "Fitness for Offshore Work" medical exams. Because offshore sites are far from major hospitals, companies are sometimes hesitant to clear individuals with chronic conditions if they believe there is a risk of a medical emergency.

Medication Supply: You would need to ensure you can legally bring a sufficient supply of medication or have it shipped to you, which can be logistically difficult in offshore environments.

Steps for Heru to Take:
Check the Visa Type: Some temporary visas (like the 482 Skilled Shortage visa) have a "Health Waiver" available. This allows the government to overlook the medical costs if your employer can prove your skills are highly needed.

Consult a Specialist: It is highly recommended to speak with a Registered Migration Agent (MARA) in Australia who specializes in health waivers. They can help calculate if your specific treatment plan fits within the government's budget limits.

Viral Load Status: Being "Undetectable" is a very strong point in your favor, as it shows your health is stable and you are at low risk for opportunistic infections that would drive up medical costs.

Hi Heru, that is a great question. Australia doesn't have a direct ban on workers with HIV, but they do have a health assessment process for all visas.

The biggest challenge is often the 'medical cost' rule. Australia calculates how much your medication and care might cost the government over several years. If that cost is too high, it can make getting the visa difficult. However, for some high-demand jobs, you can apply for a 'Health Waiver' to bypass this.

For offshore work specifically, the company itself will likely require a 'Fit for Offshore' medical exam. They want to make sure you are healthy enough to be away from a hospital for long periods. If your viral load is undetectable and your health is stable, that is a very positive sign!

I highly recommend looking for a migration agent who specializes in Australian health waivers. They can give you the most accurate advice for your specific situation.