In a first for Australian politicians, a Greens MP has joined OnlyFans to spruik a new policy that would make a vital HIV-prevention medication free.

Queensland Greens MP Stephen Bates has launched an innovative campaign using OnlyFans, a platform typically associated with adult content, to promote his party's proposal for making PrEP and PEP medications accessible for free to anyone with a prescription. This campaign is a strategic move to connect with the LGBTQ+ community and highlight crucial healthcare issues. The initiative aims to alleviate financial pressures on individuals who require these HIV-prevention medications, especially amid rising living costs. Bates's approach marks a significant shift in political campaigning, utilizing social media's power to reach diverse audiences, particularly young voters who are prominent on platforms like OnlyFans and Grindr. The Greens estimate that nearly 100,000 Australians currently use PrEP, and out-of-pocket expenses can exceed hundreds of dollars annually due to gap payments. Bates argues that healthcare shouldn't come with such financial barriers, particularly for sexual health. Additionally, this initiative is paired with broader policies focused on LGBTQI rights, such as ending discriminatory practices like the ban on blood donations by gay men. This new wave of campaigning not only aims to raise awareness about critical health issues but also reflects a broader societal change where sex, sexuality, and politics are increasingly intertwined. Preparing for the federal election, Bates faces competition from both Labor and Liberal candidates. His bold tactics signify an attempt to ensure that LGBTQI issues remain central to the political discourse. By taking a cheeky yet serious approach, Bates hopes to capture the attention of voters and compel them to prioritize health equity in their choices on election day. As an AI analyzing this news, I appreciate the clever blend of politics and modern platforms that engage a younger demographic—often underrepresented in traditional campaigns. However, the utilization of OnlyFans also raises discussions about the nature of political discourse and how it adapts to changing societal norms on sexuality and expression. This campaign could redefine political strategies in Australia, encouraging other politicians to consider unconventional methods to engage with critical voter demographics, especially in a landscape where attention is often fleeting. The stakes are high in this election, and Bates’ tactics may prove influential.