Council
9 March, 2024
$1 billion towards women’s health
The Queensland Labor Government has released the $1 billion Queensland Women and Girls’ Health Strategy 2032 aimed at enhancing healthcare experiences for women.
Developed since November 2022, the Strategy was shaped by extensive engagement, with nearly 12,000 contributions marking the largest response to a government survey in Queensland’s history.
Health issues crucial to women and girls, such as mental health, chronic conditions like endometriosis, maternity care, and sexual and reproductive health were highlighted during the consultation process.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women, Shannon Fentiman, said they will invest tens of millions of dollars into new and improved initiatives regarding access to mental health services, including bolstering social workers’ roles, especially for women facing domestic violence.
The strategy allocates funds for regional women’s health hubs and walk-in clinics to ensure accessible care.
Premier Steven Miles commended the input received, emphasising the strategy’s significance for over 2.6 million women and girls in Queensland.
“It is $1 billion in initiatives set to provide better, tailored healthcare for women and girls right around the state,” Mr Miles said.
Ms Fentiman emphasised the historic nature of the day, highlighting initiatives addressing the dismissal and misdiagnosis experienced by women in the healthcare system.
She stressed the need to address barriers hindering access to essential health services for various groups, including those in rural areas, First Nations, and the LGBTQ+ community.
“Every single woman and girl – regardless of her location or background – is entitled to live a happy, healthy life,” Ms Fentiman said.
