Sex between men happens in every country in the world.
Some men who have sex with men call themselves homosexual, others bisexual, and others see themselves as heterosexual men who happen to have sex with other men.
In some countries, male-to-male sex is against the law. Some cultural and religious groups disapprove of sex between men, and deny that it happens in their community. In places where homosexuality is not tolerated, men often hide their same-sex relationships from their wives, family or friends.
In Australia it is legal for men to have sex with men, and homosexuality is considered normal and acceptable behaviour.
risk of infection
If you have or have had sex with other men, you may be at a higher risk of contracting HIV or other sexually-transmissible infections (STI). The risk is especially high if you have had anal sex without a condom. This is because it is easier to contract an STI through anal sex than through vaginal sex.
If a man contracts HIV or an STI through male-to-male sex, he can also transmit it to female partners.
protect yourself
You can protect yourself if you and your partner wear condoms every time you have anal sex. Wearing condoms during oral sex can also protect you from some STI.
Find out more about wearing a condom.
It is strongly recommended that men who have sex with men get tested for STI regularly. You can do this through your local doctor, or you can get a free test at a sexual health clinic.
Find out more about getting tested.
Other websites that can give you more information.
report: the health needs of culturally diverse men who have sex with men
The Multicultural Health & Support Service held a consultative forum on the needs of culturally diverse men who have sex with men.
Find out more and read the report.