Introduction

Syphilis is:

• a common sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum
• easily treated (if found early)
• increasing in new infection rates in all states and territories, including metropolitan areas
• affecting some populations more than others including those who have limited access to health care services or limited access to culturally appropriate care
• can result in adverse health consequences, especially for pregnant people and elders

This guidance website does not intend to replace national syphilis guidelines but aims to highlight key information in syphilis management for the primary care workforce including but not limited to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers, General Practitioners, Nurses, and Midwives.

This guidance website is informed and supported by the following clinical resources:

Acknowledgements: 2025-26 Update

In 2025 NACCHO convened a multidisciplinary group of ACCHO staff to review and update this guidance.

ASHM and NACCHO thank the ACCHO workforce for the considerable time and expertise they have contributed to this current update.

ASHM and NACCHO acknowledge the resilience, strength, and pride of the ACCHO sector and recognises the vital role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Professionals and frontline workers play in their communities.

ASHM acknowledges Cherie Bennett, ASHM Medical Educator and Nursing Policy & Advocacy Lead, for her review and oversight for this current update.

WA Structured Administration and Supply Arrangements (SASAs)

The Structured Administration and Supply Arrangements (SASAs) enable registered nurses, midwives and Aboriginal health practitioners in Western Australia (WA) to administer treatment for syphilis infection in confirmed and/or symptomatic cases and sexual contacts of confirmed cases.

The SASA’s, and associated Conditions for administering treatment were developed in consultation with public health physicians from WA Department of Health, WA Country Health Service and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, and consultant sexual health physicians.

For further information on the scope and criteria of SASA Treatment of syphilis, refer to the Government of Western Australia Department of Health website and read:

• Supplementary information: Treatment of syphilis by registered nurses, midwives and Aboriginal health practitioners
• The relevant SASA for your profession, listed under ‘CEO of Health SASA’

Registered Nurses, Midwives, and Aboriginal Health Practitioners can complete the following approved training to achieve SASA competency for Treatment of Syphilis Infection:

OPTIONAL pre-requisite recommended for those with minimal STI/sexual health management experience. Complete self-paced Sexual Health Fundamentals online learning module.	Time: 60 mins
MANDATORY – part 1 Read this Syphilis Guidance for Primary Care (website)	Time: 80 mins
MANDATORY – part 2 Complete an open-book multiple-choice competency assessment and earn a passing mark.	Time: 10-15 mins