Thursday, 5 February 2026

 Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (17:21): (1514) The adjournment matter I wish to raise is for the Minister for Health and concerns the findings of the inquiry into women’s pain. The action that I seek is that the minister provide an update on the Allan Labor government’s response to the inquiry’s findings in the Bridging the Gender Pain Gap report for women in my electorate of Narre Warren South. In 2024 I facilitated a women’s pain forum, which was attended by the minister and was led by the wonderful Kit McMahon and Zoe Francis from Women’s Health in the South East. Representatives from local organisations in my community came together to share their stories and to help form WHISE’s submission to the inquiry. It was a powerful event, and I deeply appreciate all of those who contributed on that day. Within this setting women voiced their concerns, validating the experience of others within our current health system. We were so grateful for the minister’s attendance to personally digest the genuine grievances of many women attempting to traverse an often flawed and dismissive health system for women.

By supporting the request for this inquiry the Allan Labor government has led the way in driving lasting systemic change for generations to come. It recognises that women’s health was previously trivialised, misinterpreted and underserviced in medical systems designed by and for men. Thanks to the 13,000 contributors statewide who shared their stories and experiences. The landmark report into women’s pain confirms something women already know all too well: that their pain is real and the system needs to be better. Plans are now underway for another local women’s pain forum in my electorate through WHISE, with topics including the government’s response to findings in the Bridging the Gender Pain Gap report. I look forward to sharing the minister’s response at the upcoming forum.