Today, two months after launching our ‘About Bloody Time’ campaign, news.com.au has had a huge win for the more than one million Australians suffering from endometriosis, a condition that causes chronic pain and infertility.

The Federal Government has announced a $49.1 million investment into tackling the condition. From July 1, 2025, women suffering from endometriosis will have longer specialist consultations of 45 minutes or more covered under Medicare.

Previously, an initial gynaecologist appointment received an $81.30 rebate which covered only 10 minutes of a gynaecologists’ time.

As of July next year, Medicare will cover $168.60 for an initial appointment, and $84.35 for follow-up appointments, compared to the previous rate of $40.85.

The investment will provide about 430,000 more services to help women across the country with complex gynaecological conditions.

Health Minister Mark Butler said he was “deeply moved by the women who spoke about their experience with endometriosis during the About Bloody Time campaign”.

“I hope through this announcement today they feel listened too,” he said. 

news.com.au launched the ‘About Bloody Time’ campaign on March 1, calling for 20,000 signatures on its petition by International Women’s Day, March 8.

You all responded emphatically, and we achieved that goal in just 24 hours, and had 55,000 signatures in a little over a week.

You spoke, and now the government has listened.

Congratulations, and thank you.