Aaron Violi (Casey, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Last week I had the opportunity to visit Move For Mums with the Leader of the Opposition, Sussan Ley. Move For Mums is a pre- and postnatal exercise class in Montrose that supports local women far beyond the workout. The founder, Rachael, is a MumSafe accredited Safe Return to Exercise trainer who helps mums build functional strength, confidence and connection as they navigate every stage of motherhood. As Rachael said, the reality is that mothers are the 'gatekeepers of family health'. When mums are strong, the family is strong, the community is strong and the nation is strong. It is so important we invest in preventative health and adequate health care for Australian women to ensure they are supported at all stages of life, throughout pregnancy and afterwards.

Around one in three women experience pelvic floor dysfunction, which can lead to further health issues for many women. Rachael believes these issues can be better addressed through (1) pelvic health physio appointments for pregnant and postpartum women; (2) Safe Return to Exercise guidance, to be given at the six-week-checkup mark; and (3) reduced barriers for mums to access specialised postnatal fitness programs through subsidies or vouchers. I will continue to advocate for and work with Rachael to support local mums and families to ensure Australian families enjoy the highest quality of life.

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