Peer Connection, Social Groups and Peer Support 2026 Karumah Inc. will introduce updated peer connection group structures from early 2026, alongside the planned launch of our Peer Support Program. Further information about group schedules, locations, and activities will be shared with service users ahead of commencement. All peer connection groups and peer support activities will be delivered in a safe, respectful, and confidential environment. Participation is voluntary, and service users are encouraged to engage in the programs that feel most appropriate and supportive for them. Peer Connection Groups in 2026 Peer Connection groups will continue to run bi-monthly throughout 2026, with a detailed schedule to be published in January 2026. To best meet the needs of our community, we will be offering tailored Peer Connection groups: Peer Connection for women and heterosexual men Peer Connection for gay and bisexual men Social events and activities open to all service users These groups have been designed to create supportive, respectful, and affirming spaces where participants can connect with others who share similar lived experiences. Karumah Inc. is an inclusive service. If you feel that you do not neatly fit into the groups described, you are welcome to attend the group where you feel most comfortable and supported. We also encourage you to reach out to us directly to discuss your needs and preferences. Your feedback helps us continue to improve and strengthen our service delivery and ensure our programs remain responsive to our community. Guests of members (partner, family, carer etc) are welcome to attend most our groups and events. We ask that you please notify Karumah Inc. staff prior to attendance if you would like to bring a guest. Inclusivity and Ongoing Review Karumah Inc. is a small organisation, and our peer connection groups are designed to be sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our community. Service users are encouraged to attend the group that feels most comfortable and supportive for them. As participation grows and community needs evolve, we will continue to review and adapt group structures to ensure peer connection opportunities remain meaningful and accessible. Why We’re Making These Changes Over the past six months, Karumah Inc. sought feedback from service users about our peer connection groups, social activities, and overall service delivery. We carefully reviewed every response received and considered how we can best strengthen peer-to-peer connection and engagement moving forward. Feedback highlighted the importance of shared lived experience, comfort, and accessibility. Responses also highlighted differing preferences around practical considerations such as suitable price points for activities, a variety of locations, and flexibility around meeting times, including evenings and weekends. This feedback has directly informed how individual programs will be delivered in 2026. Launch of Karumah Inc. Peer Support Program – 2026 Karumah Inc. is also looking forward to launching our Peer Support Program in 2026. The Peer Support Program will provide structured, one-to-one and small group peer support, delivered by trained peer supporters with relevant lived experience. Peer support at Karumah Inc. will focus on connection, understanding, shared experience, and practical support, and will complement our existing services. We will soon be seeking expressions of interest from individuals who may be interested in becoming peer supporters. Eligibility, role requirements, training, supervision, and ongoing support will form part of the program and will be discussed directly with interested parties. If you are interested in learning more about the Peer Support Program—either as a participant or a potential peer supporter—please contact Karumah Inc. directly to discuss suitability, requirements, and next steps. Interested in joining us for peer connection or have an enquiry about upcoming social events? Please contact Serena - P: 0411 060 154 E: contact@karumah.org.au

Real connection doesn't come from sharing our victories, it comes from sharing vulnerability. CONTACT US P: 0411 060 154 E: contact@karumah.org.au FEEDBACK AND ENQUIRIES SUBMIT Thanks for submitting!

Who we are Karumah Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation, supporting people living with and affected by HIV in Newcastle and The Hunter region. We are committed to empowering people living with HIV through support, education, advocacy, and meaningful engagement. Karumah Inc. offers a welcoming space where every individual can feel safe, respected, and supported. Operating since the 80's, many things have changed over the years but our heart remains the same: Whether you’re seeking connection, information, or simply a listening ear, you’ll always find a community here. How we came to be In the 80's, before Karumah Inc. was formally established in 1989, supporting people living with HIV/AIDS was grassroots and deeply personal. Originally envisioned as a daycare centre for people with HIV — a safe, welcoming space where people living with HIV/AIDS could find support, dignity, and respite in the darkest times. Fear, stigma, and discrimination surrounded the virus but a small group of compassionate individuals offered care and comfort to those affected. The early efforts were run entirely on donations and staffed by dedicated volunteers until 1989 when Randy Cooper and Ray Cain secured funding from the NSW Ministry of Health to turn that vision into a sustainable service and Karumah Inc. was born Who We Are Karumah Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation, supporting people living with and affected by HIV in Newcastle and The Hunter region. We are committed to empowering people living with HIV through support, education, advocacy, and meaningful engagement. Karumah Inc. offers a welcoming space where every individual can feel safe, respected, and supported. Operating since the 80's, many things have changed over the years but our heart remains the same, w hether you’re seeking connection, information, or simply a listening ear, you’ll always find a community here. How We Came To Be In the 80's, before Karumah Inc. was formally established in 1989, supporting people living with HIV/AIDS was grassroots and deeply personal. Originally envisioned as a daycare centre for people with HIV — a safe, welcoming space where people living with HIV/AIDS could find support, dignity, and respite in the darkest times. Fear, stigma, and discrimination surrounded the virus but a small group of compassionate individuals offered care and comfort to those affected. The early efforts were run entirely on donations and staffed by dedicated volunteers until 1989 when Randy Cooper and Ray Cain secured funding from the NSW Ministry of Health to turn that vision into a sustainable service and Karumah Inc. was born.

PRIVACY Karumah Inc. is committed to protecting the privacy of visitors to our website. The following explains how we collect, use, and manage personal information provided through our website only. This does not cover information collected through our membership, referral, or program participation forms. 1. Collection of Information via the Website When you use our website, we may collect: Personal information you choose to provide (e.g. your name, email address, or phone number when submitting an enquiry). Non-identifying information such as IP addresses, browser type, operating system, and pages viewed (collected through analytics tools). We only collect personal information voluntarily provided by you via forms or email links on the website. 2. Use of Information We use information collected through our website to: Respond to enquiries and requests submitted online. Provide information about our programs, services, and events (where you have opted in). Improve the functionality, security, and performance of our website. We will not use information collected through the website for direct marketing without your consent. 3. Disclosure of Information We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information collected via the website. Information may only be disclosed: With your consent; or Where required or authorised by law. 4. Storage and Security Karumah Inc. takes reasonable steps to protect information collected through our website from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, or disclosure. However, please note that the internet is not a completely secure environment. Emails and online forms submitted via this website are not encrypted and are sent at the user’s own risk. 5. Cookies and Analytics Our website may use cookies and third-party analytics tools to collect non-identifiable information about how visitors use the site. This helps us monitor website performance and improve user experience. You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies, though some features of the website may not function properly. 6. External Websites Our website may contain links to external websites. Karumah Inc. is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of third-party sites. 7. Access and Correction You may request access to, or correction of, personal information collected via our website by contacting us (see Section 8). 8. Contact Us For questions about this Website Privacy Statement, or to request access to your information, please contact: M: 0411 060 154 E: contact@karumah.org.au

TERMS OF USE 1. Acceptance of Terms By accessing and using this website, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use and all applicable laws of New South Wales, Australia. If you do not agree, please do not use the site. 2. Health Information Disclaimer The information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns. We do not provide medical services or establish a doctor-patient relationship through this site. 3. Limitation of Liability To the fullest extent permitted by law, KARUMAH INC. is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of the use or inability to use the website, including reliance on any information provided. 4. External Links This website may contain links to third-party sites. These are provided for convenience only. We do not endorse or control these sites and are not responsible for their content or privacy practices. 5. Intellectual Property All content on this site, unless otherwise stated, is owned by KARUMAH INC. and may not be reproduced without written permission. 6. Privacy We are committed to protecting your privacy. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for information on how we collect, use, and protect your personal data. 7. Changes to Terms We reserve the right to modify these terms at any time. Your continued use of the site after changes means you accept the updated terms. 8. Jurisdiction These terms are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia.

Peer Connection Living with HIV can sometimes feel isolating, but you are not alone. Our peer connection groups offer a safe, welcoming space to share experiences and just be yourself. Peer connection is about real conversations, the ups and downs, and the support that comes from knowing someone else has walked a similar path. Peer connection programs play an important role in helping people navigate the clinical, emotional and social aspects of living with HIV. Peer support programs are successful because they - Offer belonging and connection. Peer support programs help people living with HIV make connections. These are often different to existing social networks. Give opportunities to hear lived experience. Peer programs build on clinical input. They provide insights into how others manage aspects of living with HIV such as disclosure, sex and relationships. Link people to appropriate support. Peer programs fill an important gap in HIV care. The help make sure people are linked to support that meets their social and cultural needs. O ur Women's Peer Connection and Men's Peer Connection groups meet quarterly. Upcoming meetings can be found under the WHAT'S ON tab and are listed on the Karumah Inc. Facebook page. I get by with a little help from my friends - The Beatles

COMPLAINTS Karumah Inc. is committed to providing high-quality services and values feedback to improve our operations. We encourage clients, members, and stakeholders to voice concerns or complaints, which we handle with fairness, transparency, and respect. What Is a Complaint? A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction made to or about Karumah Inc., related to our services, staff, or the handling of a previous complaint, where a response or resolution is explicitly or implicitly expected or legally required. Guiding Principles Respectful Treatment: We treat all complainants with courtesy and respect. Information and Accessibility: We make it easy to lodge a complaint and provide assistance as needed. Communication: We keep complainants informed about the progress and outcome of their complaint. Taking Ownership: We take responsibility for resolving complaints promptly. Timeliness: We aim to resolve complaints as quickly as possible. Transparency: We provide clear information about our complaint handling process and decisions. How to Make a Complaint Website: Fill out the Feedback and Enquiries form on our Contact page. Email: contact@karumah.org.au Phone: 0411 060 154 In-person: If you would like to speak to someone in person, please contact us on one of the above methods to arrange an in-person meeting. Complaint Handling Process Acknowledgment: We will acknowledge receipt of your complaint within 5 business days. Assessment: We assess the complaint to determine its nature and the appropriate course of action. Investigation: If necessary, we conduct a thorough investigation, ensuring impartiality and fairness. Resolution: We aim to resolve complaints promptly and will communicate the outcome to you, including any actions taken. Review: If you are dissatisfied with the outcome, you may request a review of the decision. External Review: If you remain unsatisfied, you can contact the ACNC for complaints regarding governance and compliance. Continuous Improvement: We regularly analyse complaint data to identify trends and areas for improvement. This helps us enhance our services and prevent future issues. Managing Unreasonable Conduct While we are committed to addressing all complaints, we also recognise the need to manage unreasonable conduct by complainants. We follow the NSW Ombudsman's guidelines to ensure staff safety and the integrity of our complaint handling process. For more detailed information, please refer to the NSW Ombudsman's Effective Complaint Management Guidelines. I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

Karumah Inc. Supporting people living with HIV since 1989 Message us directly First name* Last name* Phone* Email* Write a message Submit

Case Management Our case management involves providing comprehensive support to individuals living with HIV to help improve overall well-being. Our experienced case managers are dedicated to delivering respectful, compassionate, and confidential support that is tailored to your unique circumstances and goals. Our collaborative approach ensures you are actively involved in every step of the process. We deliver practical, emotional, and social support, as well as assistance with accessing and navigating the healthcare and social service systems. Outreach Program Our outreach program enables our case managers to operate in the community, providing support to clients in their homes or other convenient locations . This service we may include assistance with medication management, nutrition, housing, mental and physical health, as well as navigation of healthcare and social systems. If you are interested in accessing Karumah Inc.’s case management service, please complete a Referral Request Form, which can be found on this website under the Referral Request section. If you would like more information before making a referral, we encourage you to get in touch with us directly. You can either contact us by phone or email, or complete the Enquiry Form located under the Contact Us section. One of our friendly and experienced staff members will be in touch to provide further details and answer any questions you may have. We are here to support you every step of the way. I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it. - Maya Angelou Serena Program Manager Case Manager Ashlee Case Manager

Meet The Team SERENA PROGRAM MANAGER ASHLEE CASE MANAGER

This referral form can be completed by an individual seeking support (self-referral) or by someone referring another person such as a health worker, support person or family member. Information provided will remain private and confidential in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 1988 (cth). DETAILS OF PERSON BEING REFERRED First name* Last name* PLHIV* Date of birth* Day Month Year Phone* Email* Preferred contact method PERSON COMPLETING THIS FORM (If different to above) First name Last name Phone Email Connection to person being referred Organisation (if applicable) Did the person being referred consent to this referral being submitted? Submit