Tuesday, 9 September 2025

Virtual women’s health clinic

Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (18:31): (1922) My adjournment matter this evening is directed to the Minister for Health in the other place. The action I seek is for the minister to provide an update to the house on how Victorian women and girls are benefiting from the virtual women’s health clinic, particularly in regard to abortion care, advice and treatment. The Allan Labor government virtual women’s health clinic is now open to all Victorian women and girls of any age, providing free, expert advice on a wide range of health needs, including endometriosis and pelvic pain, menstrual health, cervical screening, menopause care, breast health and sexual and reproductive health such as contraception and abortion. The clinic is led by specialist nurses and can be accessed via telehealth either online or by phone. This makes it easier for women across the state, particularly in rural and regional and remote communities, to receive timely care without the barrier of distance. Traditionally services such as contraception and abortion have been harder to access outside metropolitan areas, and this initiative ensures that geography is no longer a barrier to this essential care. Operated in partnership with Each, the clinic delivers initial assessments and treatment and connects patients with GPs and other health professionals close to home. Referrals can also be made to community services that support mental health, alcohol and drug treatment and family violence prevention and support. This service complements the mobile women’s health clinic, which continues to travel across Victoria, operated by BreastScreen Victoria, with a strong focus on Aboriginal women and those in regional communities. Both the mobile and virtual clinics are part of the government’s landmark $153 million women’s health package, transforming the way women’s health care is delivered across our state in Victoria.