VICDOC Autumn 2025 - Magazine - Page 65
still major concerns. Domestic violence
remains at critical levels, Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander women face
shocking rates of health disparities, and
reproductive healthcare is still inaccessible
to many, especially in rural and remote
areas. Abortion rights remain fragile
in Australia, often becoming a topic of
political debate in states and territories.
THE AMA LEADING THE FIGHT FOR
WOMEN’S HEALTH
-
Fortunately, the medical community in
Australia is refusing to stay silent, and
the AMA is leading the charge by being a
strong advocate for women’s rights. For
more than a decade, the AMA has pushed
for equitable access to abortion services,
recognising that reproductive rights are
essential for women’s autonomy and
well-being.
Beyond reproductive rights, the AMA is
fighting for stronger maternal healthcare,
and we have been instrumental in calling
for better funding and policy changes
that ensure no woman is left behind
in receiving high-quality medical care
throughout pregnancy.
Last year, the AMA made a strong
call for action to the Senate Standing
Committee on Community Affairs to
improve equality for women suffering
from menopausal and perimenopausal
symptoms in Australia, and the
government listened.
We were very pleased to see Labor
announce a suite of new measures for
women’s health in February. This included
a significant Medicare funding boost for
long-acting reversible contraceptives, and
the listing of new oral contraceptive pills
and menopausal hormone therapies on the
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
The AMA is also playing a critical
role in addressing domestic and family
violence. Understanding that healthcare
professionals are often the first point of
contact for women in danger, the AMA has
developed guidelines and resources to help
doctors support victims and connect them
with life-saving services.
A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS
-
While the challenges are real, there are
also incredible stories of progress and
resilience. Thanks to tireless advocacy
from organisations like the AMA, more
women are gaining access to healthcare
services that empower them to take
control of their lives. Our work with
the Advancing Women in Healthcare
Leadership is helping to break down the
many barriers women face in achieving
leadership positions in health.
There’s so much to be hopeful about.
Women in medicine, politics, and activism
are leading the way, pushing boundaries,
and refusing to accept inequity. The
progress we’ve made is proof that when
we come together and demand change,
we can achieve it.
WHY THIS FIGHT MATTERS TO ALL OF US
-
When women and girls have full access
to healthcare, education, and economic
opportunities, entire societies benefit.
Countries with gender equality see
stronger economies, healthier populations,
and lower rates of violence. This isn’t just
about fairness — it’s about building a better
world for everyone.
The theme ,“For ALL Women and Girls:
Rights. Equality. Empowerment”, is more
than just a slogan — it’s a call to action.
If we want a future where every woman
and girl can thrive, we must keep fighting,
keep pushing, and keep demanding better.
Because no matter where we live, women’s
rights are worth defending.
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