$52.2 MILLION TO IMPROVE WOMEN’S HEALTH

The Liberal National Government has launched the National Women’s Health Strategy 2020-2030 with more than $50 million in funding to improve women’s health in areas such as ovarian cancer and endometriosis.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta welcomed the announcement and said the National Women’s Health Strategy will set out a national approach to improving health outcomes for all women and girls in Australia and in Bonner, particularly those at greatest risk of poor health.

“Australian women on the whole enjoy long, healthy lives, with a current average life expectancy of 85 for those born in recent years,” Mr Vasta said.

“This relatively long life expectancy disguises a large element of avoidable ill-health and inequitable outcomes between different groups.”

Minister for Health, Greg Hunt said the Government is committed to improving health outcomes throughout Australia and building a world class health system.

“Today’s announcements add to the Government’s strong record on women’s health,” Minister Hunt said.

“The women’s health strategy for 2020-2030 includes recommendations for action by governments, health professionals and women themselves.”

The Government’s investment will improve women’s health in a number of areas, including:

• $20 million for research to help Australian women in their fight against ovarian cancer with a focus on early detection
• Over $10 million for endometriosis
• $5 million to Jean Hailes for Women’s Health for the continuation of its National Women’s Health Initiative
• $9 million investment to The Glen to build and run a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program
• $1.3 million for an intensive support service to support families following stillbirth.
• More than $4 million for reproductive and family planning organisations
• $1.5 million over three years for local women’s health promotion grants

Minister for Women, Kelly O’Dwyer said, “I want to thank the women from all walks of life, doctors, policy makers and others who took part in the consultations to draft the strategy.”

The Liberal National Government’s strong economic management ensures the continued record investment of funding into vital health initiatives including mental health, life-saving medicines, Medicare and hospitals.

For full details of the National Women’s Health Strategy 2020-2030 visit the Department of Health website