National Women’s Health Strategy 2020 to 2030
In April 2019, the Department of Health launched the National Women’s Health Strategy 2020 to 2030. The Strategy aims to improve the health and wellbeing of all women in Australia, especially those at most risk of poor health. The Strategy takes a life course approach, recognising that women’s health needs and risks change at different times.
The Department consulted with leading experts, clinicians, advocacy groups, and members of the public to build the Strategy. ALSWH data, and the Study team were involved throughout the development process. The ALSWH 2019 Major Report, commissioned by the Australian Government Department of Health delivered 10 topical policy briefs that fed directly into the Strategy. Research using ALSWH data was cited extensively in an evidence review commissioned by the Department of Health and produced by Jean Hailes.
The Strategy recognises five priority areas for women’s health:
- maternal, sexual and reproductive health;
- healthy ageing; chronic conditions and preventative health;
- mental health; and
- the health impacts of violence against women and girls.
The Strategy recognises the value of the information provided by ALSWH, as well as the continuing need for a strong evidence base for policy development. It specifically calls for continued investment in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health as part of an action plan to strengthen women’s health research and data collection.