New select committee to continue focus on women's health

Media event date: 19 August 2026 Date published: 19 August 2026 Media type: Media release General public The Senate has today agreed to establish a Senate Select Committee on women’s health, following a motion moved by Senator Marielle Smith. A new Select Committee in the Senate, chaired by Senator Smith, will elevate women's voices and experiences by holding public hearings across Australia.

The new Select Committee will have a strong focus on women’s health issues including fertility, postpartum healthcare and women’s pain. This work builds on the Albanese Labor Government’s work to deliver more choice, lower costs and better care for women and girls in Australia. Our landmark investment of nearly $800 million in women's health has meant that hundreds of thousands of women have saved money on essential medicines, more women are getting dedicated endometriosis and menopause care and access to long-acting contraception is easier and more affordable.

The Government is also delivering support for First Nations women and families through our investments in Birthing on Country and First Nations Maternal and Child Health Models that support women to access culturally appropriate care in community. Assistant Minister for Health and Ageing and Assistant Minister for Women, Hon. Rebecca White MP looks forward to receiving the recommendations of the final report and considering how they may inform future policy development.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Health and Ageing, Rebecca White MP: "The Albanese Government has made women's health a national priority, investing nearly $800 million to deliver more choice, lower costs and better care for women across Australia. "Every woman’s experience of healthcare is different and it’s important we listen to women and their families about their reproductive journey including their experiences of pregnancy loss and postpartum care.

“I encourage women, families, organisations and advocates to share their experiences and insights, so we can continue to improve care and support for women across Australia.” Quotes attributable to Senator Marielle Smith, Senator for South Australia. “I am grateful to have the support of the Senate to establish this committee and thank my fellow Senators who voted in support of it.

“I am determined to use the powerful spotlight of the Senate to continue to bring women's lived experiences into the light, so we can drive the change that they deserve. “Too many women are suffering in the postpartum period. Too many are sitting in a darkness that can feel all consuming.

We cannot leave them to face this alone. “I am determined to use my role in the Senate to continue driving change in women's health and am firmly of the belief that this is the next frontier that we must tackle with urgency. “We know from the Senate Inquiry into Issues related to Menopause and Perimenopause, that by overcoming stigma and bringing lived experience into the light, change is possible.

“This committee will provide a space for women to share their experiences, and have their voices heard.” Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Emma McBride: “We know that around one in five new and expectant mothers experience perinatal depression or anxiety, and many never receive the support they need. “That’s why the Albanese Government has made perinatal mental health a priority, including investing in a national network of dedicated perinatal mental health centres.

But we know there is more work to do. “We must build on the systems already in place to make sure every woman can navigate pregnancy and early parenthood with confidence, knowing support is only a small step away. “This inquiry is an important opportunity to hear directly from women and families about their experiences, identify gaps in care, and make sure women receive the support they deserve right across out healthcare system.” The Hon Rebecca White MP The Hon Emma McBride MP Women's health Accessibility We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community.

We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to Elders both past and present. © Commonwealth of Australia