Introduction
We are LiverWELL, a community-based organisation working towards our vision of Liver Health for All. We’re on a mission to prevent and reduce the impact of liver disease, including viral hepatitis, and combat stigma so everyone can access the information, support and care they need.
Let’s take a moment to learn about liver health and supports that are available to you in your area.
Your liver and hepatitis
Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body, performing around 500 different jobs to keep you healthy. Two of its most important roles are filtering your blood to remove harmful substances and helping with digestion. Your liver also stores vitamins and minerals, regulates energy levels and produces substances your body needs to function.
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Viral hepatitis can affect how well your liver works, but many people may not know they have it.
Learn about
Understanding common myths, symptoms, transmission, prevention, testing and treatment.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a virus that affects your liver. It’s a serious condition that can cause liver damage and lead to ongoing illness, including liver cancer, but with proper treatment it can be managed effectively to prevent progression. There is a vaccination that can protect you against hepatitis B.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a virus that affects your liver. It’s a serious condition that can cause liver damage. The good news is that hepatitis C is curable. If it’s not treated, it can cause long term damage to your liver and may lead to liver cancer. Less than 10% of people with the virus will feel unwell or have any symptoms.
Steatotic Liver Disease (fatty liver disease)
Steatotic liver disease (SLD) is commonly known as fatty liver disease. It’s a condition where there is too much fat in your liver. Over time, this can become a problem and lead to serious liver conditions. The good news is there is a lot you can do to take care of your liver, and the early stages of SLD can be reversed.
Community Stories
Sometimes, hearing someone else’s story can help us feel less alone. Hear from people with lived experience of liver disease and hepatitis as they share their journeys, experiences and insights. Their stories remind us that everyone’s experience is different, and that connection, understanding and support can make a real difference.
Listen to interviews
Liver Health with Paul Gow
Listen to the ABC Nightlife discussion about liver health.
Find services near you
The Hep Services Directory is designed to help people connect with liver health services, including but not limited to services for viral hepatitis B and C.
Call the LiverLine
LiverLine is a free, confidential and non-judgemental phone service that provides information, support and referrals around viral hepatitis and general liver health.
Call 1800 703 003, Monday to Friday from 9 am–5 pm.
Need support or information?
1800 703 003
Author of hepatitis B and C information: Nerissa Bentley
Subsequent edits and contributions by: Adrian Hubble, Ariane Boulanger, Alain Palines, Linny Phuong, Jacqui Richmond, Sally Watkinson, Matt Penn, Alexander Thompson, Ais Glasby, Paul Gow, et al.
