Supporting lifelong reproductive health
Sexual and reproductive health needs vary throughout life, but many people face challenges in accessing the care they need.
Despite Australia’s world-class public health system, the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs of women, girls, and trans and gender-diverse people are not uniformly met across the country. Access to essential services such as contraception, abortion, perinatal care, and menopause support often hinges on factors like postcode, income, language, residency status and gender identity, as well as healthcare providers’ priorities and the training they have received.
For sexual and reproductive health access to be equitable, it must encompass informed choices around fertility, safe and respectful sexual relationships, and access to evidence-based treatments for conditions like pelvic pain and menstrual disorders.
At WHV, our aim is for all Victorian women (cis and trans inclusive) and gender-diverse people to experience good sexual and reproductive health throughout their lives. We have been committed to enhancing SRH access through health promotion, advocacy, and service delivery for over 30 years.
Abortion rights & access
While abortion is legal in Victoria, many people still face barriers that make it difficult to access this essential healthcare service.
Access to safe and legal abortion is vital for the health and autonomy of women and gender-diverse people.
Although abortion was decriminalised in Victoria in 2008, significant barriers remain. Geographic location, cost, Medicare and visa status, language, stigma, and other social factors including age, disability, sexuality, and gender identity make accessing abortion difficult. Addressing these barriers is essential to achieving equitable access to abortion services – a cornerstone of gender equality and the rights of women and gender-diverse people.
WHV is dedicated to upholding the right to safe and legal abortion and ensuring equitable access to this essential healthcare service in Victoria.
Our services & support
Through initiatives like the 1800 My Options phone line, WHV connects Victorians to the services they need, while also working to identify gaps and advocate for improved access within the health system.
Donate to create change for women
With your help, we can drive social change, address women’s health needs and promote fair and equitable healthcare for all. No contribution is too small, and donations over two dollars are tax deductible.