Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Bilyk for the question, and, of course, I am thankful for the work of all of my colleagues in the Labor caucus who have worked so hard to make sure that we are addressing areas where women have not been given the support that they deserve, in particular here in relation to access to appropriate health care. I do want to acknowledge the work that's been done in this chamber, through this term of parliament, on the Senate sexual reproductive inquiry and the Senate menopause inquiry. The inquiries heard from Australian women and health advocacy organisations about the longstanding issues with support for women's health care, and the Albanese Labor government has listened.

In addition to the inquiries, Minister Kearney and Minister Butler have been informed by extensive consultation with women, healthcare providers, advocacy groups and the National Women's Health Advisory Council. We know from all of that that women too often experience delayed diagnoses, have their pain dismissed and struggle to get the support they need. Women need for their government to take their health care seriously. We have listened and we have responded. A significant package—$573 million—demonstrates our commitment to making sure we are addressing those areas of need. This package includes the first PBS listing for new oral contraceptive pills in more than 30 years. There are more choices, lower costs, better access for long-term contraceptives, more Medicare support for women experiencing menopause, the first PBS listing for new menopausal hormone therapies in over 20 years, more endometriosis and pelvic-pain clinics treating more conditions, and contraceptives and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs directly from pharmacies for those women who are on a healthcare card and where cost becomes prohibitive. These packages will save women and their families thousands of dollars over their lifetimes.