2021 Federal Budget gives women’s health a $354m funding boost

If there’s one piece of finance news that’s been on almost every Aussie’s lips this week, it’s the 2021 Federal Budget. And since its official announcement on Tuesday night, we’ve heard changes around home ownership, superannuation and childcare.

To instill some positivity in women after a series of scandals and criticisms from last year’s budget, the Morrison Government is now investing $354 million in women’s health over the next four years. This includes areas, like funding for cervical cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis and reproductive health. 

“Given over half the Australian population is made up of women, it’s important that we have equal access to health services and support. Our investment of $353.9 million into women’s health will benefit all Australians today and into the future,” said Minister for Women, Senator Marise Payne. 

Other areas where funds have been allocated are:

• $47.4 million to support the mental health and wellbeing of new and expectant parents
• $26.9 million to support people with eating disorders and their families
• $22 million for additional gynaecology items on the MBS, including items for Assisted Reproductive Technology and long-term reversible contraceptives
• $21.6 million for women’s health initiatives, including Jean Hailes for Women’s Health and the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia for the Periods, Pain and Endometriosis Program (PPEP-Talk).

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt explained that these changes are set to benefit women of all ages and backgrounds. 

“As part of today’s significant investment, $13.7 million will help to reduce the rate of preterm births in Australia, which affect 8% of births in Australia and up to 16% among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women,” he said. 

“Currently only couples of individuals, who are carriers of serious genetic disorders can only access PGT if they are able to pay privately. We’re investing $95.9 million for five new MBS items, ensuring all Australians can access this testing.”

An additional $1.1 billion will be allocated to women’s safety measures across areas, like preventing violence and supporting women leaving violent relationships and expanding justice system responses. 

If you’d like to check out Mozo’s coverage of The 2021 Federal Budget, have a read of our summary article or check out the latest episode of The Finance Burrito!