Australia invests $573 million in women's health funding

The Albanese government has announced a $573.3 million investment in women’s health, aimed at improving access and reducing costs for reproductive health treatments. Key measures include the introduction of new oral contraceptive pills, Yaz and Yasmin, to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which will save approximately 50,000 women hundreds of dollars annually. The funding will also boost Medicare rebates for long-term contraceptives like IUDs and implants and introduce new rebates for menopause health assessments, with new hormone therapies added to the PBS for the first time in over 20 years. Healthcare advocates have welcomed the package, highlighting the importance of increased support for women's health amid ongoing challenges such as medical misogyny and cost barriers. Additional initiatives will expand endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics, further addressing women's health needs comprehensively. This investment reflects a significant commitment to enhancing women's healthcare options and accessibility across Australia.