Millions of Australian women will have access to menopausal and perimenopausal care at endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics across the country from July 1, as Anthony Albanese seeks to cement his healthcare legacy. <\/p>\n
The 33 specialised clinics will expand to older Australian women to help with treatment and management of symptoms, while continuing to provide services to the about one in seven women living with endometriosis.<\/p>\n
Health Minister Mark Butler said women \u2013 only 31 per cent of which said they could confident identify menopause symptoms, according to a recent study \u2013 said they wanted to be taken seriously.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese clinics will help improve health outcomes for Australian women through better access to reliable, evidence-based, information and support,\u201d Mr Butler said. <\/p>\n
A 2025 YouGov poll found on average, Australia women could identify just seven of 34 symptoms of menopause. <\/p>\n
One in six said they could not name a single menopause symptom, while one in three women were unable to connect common symptoms to menopause, according to reporting.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor too long, a lack of information and a culture of silence around menopause has left women feeling confused, dismissed and unsupported,\u201d Assistant Health Minister Rebecca White said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy expanding menopause and perimenopause care through al 33 Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics, we\u2019re making it easier for women to access trusted advice, treatment and care closer to home.<\/p>\n
\u201cMenopause and Perimenopause affects every woman differently, which is why it is important that women can access the right support, at the right time, from health professional who understand their needs.<\/p>\n
Ms White said women\u2019s health was \u201cno longer an afterthought \u2013 it\u2019s front and centre\u201d.<\/p>\n
Symptoms for menopause and perimenopause can affect women differently, ranging from hot flushes to sleep problems, anxiety, brain fog, and shifts in mental health.<\/p>\n
Under the plan, existing clinics will provide more co-ordinated support to help manage those symptoms, including access to physiotherapy, dietitians, and psychologists, alongside clinical care. <\/p>\n
The Albanese government has bet big on Medicare, and women\u2019s health in particular. <\/p>\n
Since coming to power in 2022, the government has sought to list more medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and expanded endometriosis clinics to every state and territory.<\/p>\n
The clinics are operated within existing GP practises. <\/p>\n