Mary Doyle (Aston, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Twelve months ago, the Albanese Labor government made a landmark commitment: an almost $793 million investment in the health of Australian women and girls. Today, we stand proud not just of a promise made but of a promise delivered. Already, more than 660,000 women across the country have accessed cheaper medicines for contraception, menopausal hormone therapies and endometriosis treatment through the PBS. For the first time in over 30 years, new contraceptive pills have been listed, and, for the first time in more than two decades, new menopausal hormone therapies have been added, giving women more choice and real savings at the pharmacy. Since the start of this year, PBS prescriptions have been capped at $25, while concessional patients continue to pay $7.70, easing pressure on household budgets.

But this reform goes beyond medicines. Since July last year, more than 71,000 women across the country have accessed dedicated menopause health assessments through Medicare. The Albanese Labor government has invested $49 million to expand care for complex gynaecological conditions. We are increasing bulk-billing for IUDs and implants, saving women up to $400 a year, and, with 33 endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics operating nationwide alongside new national menopause guidelines, we are transforming the way women's health is treated in this country. For women in my electorate of Aston, this means more affordable care, better support at every stage of life and a health system that takes their concerns seriously.

See this speech in context