The Women's Health Symposium, held by Jean Hailes for Women's Health at the ANU on 22-23 October, successfully brought together a vast array of voices in the health sector. Researchers, clinicians, consumers, consumer advocates, policy makers and the wider community contributed practical ideas on how to implement the National Women's Health Strategy 2020-2030, which was launched by the Department of Health in April.
In preparation for the inaugural symposium, the Women's Health Policy Alliance was established by Jean Hailes to formally connect the sector. A series of five policy forums were held by the WHPA around Australia focusing on five priorities identified in the strategy, including healthy ageing and mental health.
"Launching the National Women's Health Strategy was an ambitious first step, and in a crowded policy environment our aim was to help ensure that the great intentions captured in a document like this turn into real action," says Jean Hailes CEO David Lloyd.
Minister for Health, the Hon Greg Hunt MP, says the symposium has helped pave the way for the roll out of the strategy next year.
"There's a lot to be done to address the health inequities experienced by women in Australia and this is the first step," says Minister Hunt. "The strategy will inform our approach to this for the next decade."
"Working parties will be established in the new year on the priorities identified at the symposium," he says.
"I'm grateful to Jean Hailes for their leadership in supporting this and helping bring together leaders in the sector for open and collaborative discussions."
Mr Lloyd says that the Women's Health Policy Alliance, and the symposium, are "a positive example of how passionate and knowledgeable experts in the sector can come together from all corners to improve health outcomes for all women and girls."
Read more on the outcomes of the symposium and watch the videos from the two-day event with presentations from leaders in the health sector.
Jean Hailes for Women's Health is a national not-for-profit organisation. We have a unique model, built on four pillars: education and knowledge exchange; clinical care; research; and policy. We aim to translate the latest scientific and medical evidence to help inspire positive change in women and girls by improving their physical health and wellbeing. Jean Hailes produces evidence-based information reviewed by clinicians. In 2016, Jean Hailes was officially recognised as the Federal Government's national digital gateway for women's health.
For more information on Jean Hailes or to interview David Lloyd, please contact Janelle Carrigan on 0409 939 920 or email media@jeanhailes.org.au
