If you’re looking for women’s health services in Australia, you’re in luck. The country offers a range of free or low-cost women’s health services for residents and newcomers.
At Remitly, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate healthcare in a new country, so we’ve put this guide together to help. Whether you’ve settled in a bustling city or you’ve chosen rural living, it’s comforting to know there are many community resources dedicated to providing essential care.
Common women’s health concerns
Women’s health covers a wide range of topics covering both physical and mental conditions. Here is a list of common concerns in Australia:
- Reproductive health conditions like endometriosis and PCOS
- Menopause, which affects all women in different ways
- Heart disease, the leading cause of death for Australian women
- Breast cancer, which can be caught early with regular screening
- Osteoporosis, a disease affecting the bones
- Skin cancer, a common issue in Australia
- Diabetes, especially type 2, which is on the rise in the country
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression
Understanding free women’s health services in Australia
Australia has a strong system of public services, and is continually enhancing women’s healthcare. Efforts to improve access include affordable contraceptives, menopause support, and specialised clinics for reproductive health and chronic conditions.
Some services prioritise prevention, such as health screenings and routine check-ups. Others provide ongoing care for conditions like endometriosis, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), or menopause. If you’re looking for mental health support, you’ll also find government-funded programs that connect you with counsellors who can provide guidance and care.
These services include:
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- Medicare: If you’re a citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa, you may have access to Medicare, which covers many healthcare services. Under Medicare, some doctors offer fully covered consultations, meaning you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket.
- Community health centres: Run by local councils or non-profit organisations, these centres provide a welcoming space where you can access essential healthcare services. Whether you need vaccinations, antenatal and postnatal care, blood pressure monitoring, or general health advice, nurses and health professionals are there to help.
- Hospital outpatient departments: Public hospitals offer specialised outpatient clinics that provide services like breast screenings and pelvic floor therapy, often at little to no cost. These services ensure that you can receive expert care without financial worries.
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- Women’s health hubs: Depending on the region, Australia offers public and private health centres dedicated to women’s health.
What makes women’s health services unique?
Australia’s healthcare system values cultural inclusivity, ensuring all women, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and those from non-English-speaking backgrounds, receive respectful and accessible care.
The country also recognises that women have different healthcare needs than men, with higher rates of chronic conditions and anxiety disorders, as well as unique reproductive health concerns. This makes specialised services essential in providing the right kind of support at every stage of life.
Many clinics in Australia take a holistic approach to healthcare, bringing different types of support together in one place. You might find a GP, a dietitian, and a counsellor working in the same health centre, making it easier for you to access medical, mental health, and nutritional care. This way, you can get the right support without having to visit multiple locations.
Cost and accessibility
- Free or low-cost services: Public hospitals, community-based clinics, and certain charitable organisations offer free or heavily subsidised care.
- After-hours care: If you need medical help outside regular hours, look for GP helplines or weekend clinics.
- Travel assistance: Some states have programs to compensate travel costs if you need to travel far for medical treatment. Check your local health service to see what’s available.
Where to find reliable health information
National and local health information resources
- HealthDirect: This government-funded website offers reliable, up-to-date health information on topics like the female reproductive system, menopause, and mental health. You can read about screening programs, learn to recognise important symptoms, and even find a local clinic for in-person support.
- Australian Government Department of Health: The official government health website provides details on women’s health programs, including how to access free or subsidised healthcare services.
- State and territory health services: Each state and territory has its own website with information on local health services. For example, New South Wales Health, Victoria Health, and Queensland Health offer directories to help you find clinics and specialists near you. Public libraries can also be a resource for educational information about women’s health.
Community and online support for women’s health
Aside from government-funded resources, there are many non-profit organisations focused on women’s health, such as Women’s Health Victoria and Women’s Health Queensland. These groups offer education, support services, and helplines to connect you with the right healthcare professionals.
Additionally, local social media groups for expats and immigrant women can be a great way to find recommendations for affordable GPs, supportive health centres, and personal experiences from others in similar situations. Just remember to double-check medical advice with a qualified healthcare provider.
Finding the right women’s health hubs for you
Women’s Health Hubs are special clinics designed to make healthcare more accessible and convenient. They bring together different services under one roof, so you don’t have to visit multiple places to get the care you need.
What services are available to women in Australia?
- Reproductive healthcare: Whether you need contraception, pregnancy advice, antenatal check-ups, or postnatal support, these hubs are here to help.
- Screening programs: Regular breast and cervical screenings can catch early signs of cancer. Some hubs even work with mobile clinics that travel to rural areas, so you don’t have to go far for essential check-ups.
- Support for survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence: Many hubs provide confidential counselling, referrals for legal help, and immediate medical care. You don’t have to go through it alone, there are people ready to help you.
- Help with chronic conditions: If you’re dealing with PCOS, endometriosis, menopause symptoms, or pelvic floor issues, these hubs offer support and treatment options.
- Mental health services: Many hubs have onsite counsellors or work closely with mental health clinics, so you can get support for anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges.
Who can use these services?
If you have a Medicare card, most visits are free or low-cost through Medicare’s bulk-billing system. Some clinics also offer free care to non-residents under special initiatives. This includes critical circumstances like sexual assault or other emergencies. Keep in mind that you might need a doctor’s referral to be eligible for some hospitals or specialised clinics.
Essential health checks for women
Taking care of your health isn’t just about feeling good today; it’s about protecting your future. Regular check-ups help catch potential health issues early so you have the best chance to stay healthy for years to come.
Specific tests for women of different ages
- Breast examinations: While self-checks are helpful, professional screenings can detect lumps you might not notice. Organisations like BreastScreen Australia offer free mammograms for women between 50 and 74 years old, in every Australian territory. This can offered or free at a younger age if you have family history.
- Cervical screening: In Australia, the Pap smear has been replaced by the Cervical Screening Test, which is recommended every five years between 25 and 74 years old.
- Hormone evaluations: A doctor might test hormone levels if you’re experiencing symptoms related to menopause, PCOS, or fertility challenges.
- Pregnancy-related checks: During pregnancy and after giving birth, regular visits to a GP, obstetrician, or midwife help monitor both your health and your baby’s development.
Recommended routine health checks
- Blood pressure monitoring: High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to serious health issues if left unchecked. Regular monitoring helps you stay on top of your heart health.
- General health checks: A visit to your GP is a great opportunity to talk about your lifestyle, mental health, immunisations, and any concerns you might have.
- Skin cancer checks: With Australia’s strong sun, several organisations offer free skin checks, including MoleMap and the Australia Skin Cancer Foundation.
- Cholesterol tests: High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, but a simple blood test can help you manage it early through diet and lifestyle changes. These are offered for free in many locations across Australian states.
- Eye tests: Your vision naturally changes over time, so regular eye exams can help detect issues. These are usually provided with Medicare or at a discounted rate.
- Blood glucose tests: Monitoring blood sugar levels is important for detecting diabetes early. Diabetes Australia offers subsidised tests.
- BMI and weight checks: Keeping an eye on your weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) can help track overall health and reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. These are available with your GP and there are many online calculators.
Why regular screenings matter
Catching health issues early can make a huge difference. Many government-funded programs offer free or subsidised screenings, so cost doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting checked. If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible for certain tests, talk to your doctor or check with your local Health Centre. Taking care of your health is one of the best things you can do for yourself, so don’t wait to book that appointment.
Extra support and resources for women’s health
No matter where you live, support is always available. If you’re in a remote area, telehealth services and mobile clinics help you get medical care. Many organisations, both government and non-profit, are dedicated to supporting women’s health.
Where to find support for reproductive health
Many clinics and hospitals have dedicated sexual and reproductive health departments where you can access STI testing, contraception advice, and pregnancy planning services. If you need expert care for fertility issues, pelvic health concerns, or other conditions, your GP can refer you to the right specialist for further support.
Organisations that can help
- Women’s Health Organisations: These often focus on health education, offering workshops and seminars about nutrition, sexual health, general well-being, and more.
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs): Groups like Luma, Jean Hailes, and Women’s Healthcare Australasia work to promote women’s physical and mental health.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women’s services: Most of these organisations also provide culturally sensitive support for women from specific communities, including Ranzcog and Vaccho.
Finding health professionals who understand your needs
Accessing healthcare as a new immigrant can be challenging. Some health centres hire staff from local immigrant communities who understand your culture and background, making it easier to communicate and feel comfortable discussing health concerns.
If English isn’t your first language, you can request an interpreter when booking medical appointments. Many hospitals and community clinics have trained staff who can help women from different backgrounds, including the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health. Government websites like HealthDirect provide essential health information in multiple languages, so you can access the details you need in a way that’s easy to understand.
If you don’t live in one of Australia’s major cities, telehealth services allow you to speak with doctors, get follow-up consultations, and even receive mental health support from the comfort of your home. Organisations such as 1800RESPECT offer 24/7 phone support for sexual assault or domestic violence. They can also connect you to an interpreter if you need.
Taking care of your health doesn’t have to be complicated; small steps can make a big difference. No matter what stage of life you’re in, there are plenty of resources and support systems available to women in Australia to help you feel your best.
FAQs
How can I access low-cost medical services in Australia?
Australia has many affordable healthcare options. If you have a Medicare card, you can see a bulk-billing GP or visit a public hospital for free or low-cost treatment. If you don’t have Medicare, don’t worry—many NGOs and charitable clinics provide essential care for non-residents in need.
What are the leading women’s health issues in Australia?
Some of the biggest health issues for women include mental health struggles like anxiety or postpartum depression, skin cancer, chronic conditions such as endometriosis and PCOS, and the challenges of menopause.
Are health services free in Australia?
Many public health services are free or low-cost under Medicare if you’re a citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa. This includes hospital treatment, GP visits, and important screenings like cervical and breast cancer checks.
What is Healthdirect?
Healthdirect Australia is a government-funded website that provides trusted, up-to-date health information. It covers everything from contraception and pregnancy care to menopause and general well-being.