27/05/25
Australia Invests in Perimenopause
The Australian Government is investing $5.5 million over three years to improve data on sexual and reproductive health, with perimenopause and menopause as key priorities. This new initiative will identify data gaps which will aim to improve health outcomes for those most marginalised in our society including First Nations women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, women from CALD backgrounds, and those living with a disability.
$12.8 million will be invested from 2025–26 to launch a nationwide public health campaign on perimenopause and menopause. The campaign will raise awareness of symptoms and treatment options, and aims to combat misinformation and encourage preventive action. Importantly, the campaign will target health professionals to improve clinical understanding and access to up-to-date treatment resources.
$19.6 million will be invested over three years to add an extra 11 Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics (EPPCs) across Australia and support existing ones. The clinics’ scope will broaden to include perimenopause and menopause, offering multidisciplinary care, education, and support. With this investment, 33 clinics (one in every Primary Health Network) will deliver more accessible and holistic care to women and gender diverse people nationwide.
From 1 March 2025, several key oral contraceptives and menopausal hormone therapies have been added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), cutting costs for thousands.
This includes:
Yaz® and Yasmin®
A progestogen-only pill for those who can’t take estrogen
Estrogel®, Prometrium®, and Estrogel® Pro for menopausal hormone therapy
These additions improve access and affordability for women and gender diverse people managing reproductive and hormonal health.
From 1 July 2025, a new Medicare rebate will support menopause health assessments, helping more people access care and guidance from their GP. Additional funding includes a national awareness campaign, development of clinical guidelines for menopause and perimenopause management, and additional training for healthcare professionals to improve support and treatment.
References
Australian Department of Health and Aged Care. (2025). Australian Government response to the Senate Community Affairs References Committee report: Issues related to menopause and perimenopause. https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-02/government-response-to-inquiry-issues-related-to-menopause-and-perimenopause.pdf
Australian Department of Health and Aged Care. (2025). More choice, lower costs and better health care for women. https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-03/more-choice-lower-costs-and-better-health-care-for-women_0.pdf
