Australian women will soon have greater access to essential health care through their local pharmacy, following the Albanese Government’s decision to launch a national women’s health pharmacy prescribing trial.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia has welcomed the move, which will allow appropriately trained community pharmacists to provide free consultations and low-cost medicines for concession card holders. The 12-month trial will cover treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) and hormonal contraception, expanding safe and affordable care options for women across the country.
Pharmacy Guild National president Professor Trent Twomey said the announcement recognised the vital role community pharmacies play as Australia’s most accessible frontline health providers.
“Women deserve expert care where and when they need it — and community pharmacists are uniquely placed to provide it safely and locally,” Professor Twomey said. “This package acknowledges what communities have known for years: when women need timely health support, they turn to their local pharmacy first.”
He emphasised that pharmacists will only deliver these services after completing the required clinical training and following strict protocols. “Safety is, and always will be, central to pharmacy care,” he said.
Under the new women’s health package, pharmacists who meet national prescribing standards will be authorised to support women seeking contraception advice and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs.
Since pharmacy-based UTI treatment was introduced, more than 145,000 women have received care from nearly 4,000 pharmacies across metropolitan, regional and remote areas. Demand remains strong, highlighting the importance of accessible pharmacy services — particularly as GP wait times continue to rise. Research shows that 16 per cent of patients wait more than three weeks for a GP appointment, with nearly half of women describing these delays as unacceptable.
“Empowering trained pharmacists to deliver more women’s health services means women can access the help they need sooner — and GPs can focus on more complex care. It’s a win for patients and a win for the health system,” Professor Twomey said.
With more than 6,000 community pharmacies across Australia, open earlier and later than most other primary healthcare providers, women can now access trusted advice, triage and treatment closer to home.
Women can find their nearest pharmacy offering UTI treatment and contraception services by visiting FindaPharmacy.com.au.
