The Kirby Institute is one of Australia’s premier research institutes with a special focus on HIV, viral hepatitis and STIs. The Kirby Institute’s primary functions relate to the co-ordination of national surveillance programs, population health and epidemiological research, clinical research and clinical trials. The Kirby Institute’s research program has increasingly taken on a regional focus, with major collaborative programs in Thailand and Cambodia. Other functions of the Kirby Institute include the training of health professionals, and input into the development and implementation of health policy and programs.