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The UK-based not-for-profit sexual health group Marie Stopes International (MSI) is promoting condom use for Australian high school students, who can access free condoms by text message. The "TXT 4 free condomz" mobile phone campaign is part of "sextxt," a broader sexual health information program. During the peak season for high school formals, MSI wants teens to know condoms are the "must-have school formal accessory," said Jill Michelson, MSI's acting chief.

The Australian Family Association opposes the program, seeing it as a message that teen sex is okay. "The likelihood of adolescents competently using condoms is actually quite small, and then add in booze. and you've got an even less safe situation," said Angela Conway, a spokesperson for AFA.

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n the National Survey of Australian Secondary Students, most seniors reported being sexually active and more than half had had intercourse, Michelson said. "Nearly half of those students admitted that they don't use condoms every time they have sex, and one in 10 stated that they never use condoms." She tied this to rising STD infections, including chlamydia.

"A school formal is an exciting and memorable night," said Michelson. "Yet all too often teens forget to invest the time in sorting out their contraception and ensuring they are prepared on the night should they decide to engage in sexual intercourse."

An MSI spokesperson said the organization does not profit by the 55 cent (US 50 cents) cost of the call.

from the Australian Associated Press