Lipoedema is a chronic, painful, loose connective tissue disorder, occurring almost exclusively in women. It is characterised by disregulated and disproportionate fat growth, most commonly found in the legs and arms, and less commonly in other areas of the body.

Lipoedema is usually exacerbated during times of hormonal change and is resistant to conventional lifestyle modifications. It is progressive and incurable, but there are management strategies that can reduce symptoms, including conservative measures and in some cases, surgery.

Lipoedema is not currently recognised by Medicare as a rebatable medical condition, so surgery attracts no Medicare or private health insurance support and is very expensive and out of reach for almost all that suffer this condition.

We request the federal government recognise Lipoedema and that the treatments and any surgeries required for Lipedema be covered under Medicare.