Jenny Ware (Hughes, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to speak on this motion on endometriosis and thank the honourable members for Bendigo and Lalor for bringing this motion before the House. I also thank the member for Robertson, who has spoken so well on the medical issues around endometriosis, and the member for Forrest, who has been a co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Endometriosis Awareness for many years, as well as all the other members who have spoken and will be speaking on this important issue.

This is a matter of profound importance to women's health and wellbeing. It's a condition where tissue similar to the endometrium, or lining of the uterus, grows outside of the uterus. It's often under-recognised and not diagnosed. It's a chronic condition that affects a staggering one in nine women in Australia and approximately 200 million women worldwide. The symptoms often emerge during teenage years. A laparoscopy is the only way to confirm that endometrial tissue is present.

Yet, despite its prevalence, the causes of endometriosis remain elusive, and the journey to diagnosis is far too often fraught with delays, averaging around seven years. Endometriosis is not just about menstrual pain; it's about a pervasive, debilitating condition that can severely impact a woman's life. Half of those living with endometriosis will also have fertility challenges before a diagnosis is made. It has been described as pelvic cramps akin to labour pains—throbbing, gnawing and dragging pain, often extending down into the legs. Its toll extends beyond physical suffering to financial burden, with an annual cost to Australian society of around $9.7 billion per year, primarily attributed to lost productivity, as well as $2.5 billion in direct healthcare costs.

Recognising the gravity of this issue, the coalition has been at the forefront, when in government, of addressing endometriosis. In 2018, it launched the National Action Plan for Endometriosis, which provided a crucial blueprint for action. We have supported and welcomed the decisions of the Albanese government to uphold the coalition government's former budget measures, including$16.4 million for the establishment of endometrial and pelvic pain GP clinics in primary care settings throughout the country.

We also welcome the government's decision to maintain the former coalition government's commitment to invest $25 million in a new MBS item for pelvic MRI scans. We know this is such an important issue and such an important investment for women across the country who need better access to this critical support. Access to resources and informed healthcare choices are paramount for women battling endometriosis. We must equip both patients and healthcare providers with the necessary tools and guidance to navigate this complex condition effectively. In particular, more work needs to be done—particularly with the education of GPs. As we observe Endometriosis Awareness Month this March, let us recognise the pivotal role played by organisations like Endometriosis Australia. Its tireless efforts in research, advocacy and support are invaluable in easing the burden carried by those enduring the challenge of endometriosis, and I note that it recently launched an excellent podcast called Living with Endo.

In closing, let it be known that the coalition remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the lives of Australian women and girls affected by endometriosis. We will do this in a bipartisan way; health should be way above politics. Together, let us continue to raise awareness, drive research and provide unwavering support to alleviate the burden of this debilitating condition. I take this opportunity to acknowledge particularly the tenacity and courage of Australian girls and women suffering and living with endometriosis every day. My sister Jacqui and my friend Jess are still playing sport, working, studying, caring for children and caring for parents. I say to them that we'll continue to approach this debilitating medical condition in a bipartisan way to bring about better treatments and, hopefully—finally—a cure. Thank you.

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