A new Women's Health Trial by the Australian Government will make it easier for women to access expert care through community pharmacies.
For many women, accessing healthcare is not always straightforward. According to a 2024 survey by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, over 70% of women reported they experienced bias in GP visits.
From 1 February 2027, the Australian Government's Women's Health Trial will make it easier for women to access care through community pharmacies.
Under the trial, eligible patients can access free consultations for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) and contraception services from specially trained participating community pharmacists. Where medicine is required, eligible patients will be able to access pharmacist-prescribed medicines at PBS prices where applicable.
This is the first time in history that the Australian Government will fund pharmacist consultations nationally for women's health services, giving women a safe, convenient and affordable option for accessing everyday healthcare.
More choice about when and where you access care
The Women's Health Trial is designed to improve access to clinically appropriate care through community pharmacies.
For many women, accessing healthcare can involve long wait times, difficulty securing appointments, travel, or finding a service that fits around work and family commitments. Community pharmacies offer an accessible option located in towns, suburbs and communities across Australia.
Through the trial, eligible patients can receive care from a participating pharmacist without needing to pay for the consultation.
What services are available?
Eligible patients will be able to access consultations for:
- UTI consultation, treatment, and care
- Starting hormonal contraception*
- Contraception resupply*
*Contraception services available through the trial will depend on the authorisations and requirements in each state and territory.
UTI consultations and treatment will be available nationally.
Affordable care close to home
The trial includes both funded consultations and access to medicines at Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) prices where applicable.
This means eligible patients can receive advice, assessment, and treatment from a participating pharmacist without paying for the consultation itself. If medicine is required and supplied under the program, patients will pay the applicable PBS price.
By reducing the cost of both consultations and medicines, the trial aims to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for patients across Australia.
Is pharmacist-led care safe?
Yes.
Participating pharmacists must complete additional training before providing services under the Women's Health Trial.
They operate under strict clinical protocols and clear referral pathways designed to ensure patients receive the right care in the right setting.
If a patient does not meet the eligibility criteria for treatment through the program, or if the pharmacist identifies that further assessment is needed, they will be referred to a GP or another appropriate healthcare provider.
What can patients expect during a consultation?
Consultations are conducted in a private consultation room within the pharmacy.
Patients can expect a professional, respectful, and non-judgemental consultation with a specially trained pharmacist.
The pharmacist will assess whether the service is appropriate, discuss treatment options, and provide advice about ongoing care. Where required and permitted under state or territory arrangements, medicines may also be prescribed and supplied through the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Women's Health Trial?
The Women's Health Trial is a 12-month Australian Government program commencing on 1 February 2027. It funds pharmacist consultations for eligible patients accessing women's health services through participating community pharmacies.
Who is eligible?
General and concession patients may be eligible to access services under the Women's Health Trial, provided they meet the eligibility requirements for the specific service being provided.
How much does it cost?
Consultations provided through the trial are free for eligible patients.
Where medicine is prescribed and supplied through the program, it will be available at PBS prices where applicable.
Is the trial available across Australia?
Yes. The trial will operate nationally, however the contraception services pharmacists can provide will depend on the authorisations and requirements in each state and territory.
Do I need to see a GP first?
Not necessarily. Eligible patients may be able to access services directly through a participating community pharmacy. If further assessment or treatment is required, the pharmacist will refer the patient to a GP or other healthcare provider.
Find a participating pharmacy
From 1 February 2027, eligible patients will be able to access free consultations for uncomplicated UTIs and contraception services through participating community pharmacies.
To find a participating pharmacy and check your eligibility, use Find a Pharmacy.
