The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS) welcomes the Australian Government’s response to the Senate Community Affairs References Committee report on Issues Related to Menopause and Perimenopause.
The response acknowledges many of the key messages put forward by the Academy, particularly in relation to research, workforce participation, health professional training, and access to evidence-based care.
The Academy commends the Government’s commitment to ensuring menopause is better understood, better researched, and better supported in workplaces and healthcare settings. The $64.5 million investment over three years in specialist care, awareness campaigns, and clinical guidelines is a step forward in addressing a significant yet often overlooked health issue affecting millions of Australians.
Academy President Professor Louise Baur AM PresAHMS said “The Government’s response reflects long-overdue recognition of menopause as an important public health and workforce issue.”
“This is a crucial step towards ensuring that Australian women receive the evidence-based care, workplace support, and research investment they deserve. We are pleased to see the Government acknowledge the need for better data, stronger workforce policies, and expanded healthcare access to support women during perimenopause and menopause.”
However, some areas require further action.
The Academy warmly welcomes the government’s $30.5 million investment in research. To maximise the benefits of such an investment, a National Women’s Health Research Strategy should be developed to coordinate efforts, fill critical research gaps, and maximise the impacts of investments across research and health.
“The Government’s response is an important milestone, but there is more work to do. A nationally coordinated approach to women’s health research will ensure that funding is directed towards high-impact, evidence-based solutions, driving better health outcomes and addressing longstanding inequities in research and care for women across Australia.” Said Professor Baur.
Media: Khaled Chakli: [email protected] or via phone 0423 099 568