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Women's Health Organisations

Published on: October 2025

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-158572

Women's Health Organisations

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore) (01:09:15):

Today I speak on the critical issue of women's health and the vital role that advocacy organisations play in advancing it. Women face unique health challenges, from reproductive health to chronic illness and mental health concerns, many of which require tailored approaches and dedicated advocacy. In September I welcomed to Parliament leading organisations to a Women's Health Expo for Women's Health Week, a national initiative organised by Jean Hailes for Women's Health. Each offered invaluable insights, information and resources. My goal for the expo was to ensure that members of Parliament and their staff had access to information on the key health issues affecting women, and to showcase the support services available to women across the State. I take this opportunity to acknowledge the organisations that participated and the dedicated staff and volunteers who represented them on the day. Their presence and passion made the expo an unforgettable and highly educational event.

The Gidget Foundation is an incredible organisation, which I know very well. Headquartered in North Sydney, it is dedicated to supporting families affected by perinatal depression and anxiety. This mental health condition affects roughly one in five new mothers and can have profound effects on families. The Gidget Foundation provides free counselling through its dedicated centres across New South Wales and Australia. I thank Zoe for joining us and raising awareness about this often invisible but very real health challenge.

The Butterfly Foundation is Australia's national charity dedicated to those impacted by eating disorders and body image issues, and has its headquarters in Crows Nest in my community. Eating disorders affect over one million Australians—disproportionately women—and are associated with severe health consequences, including depression, anxiety and substance abuse. The Butterfly Foundation provides crucial support, awareness and education, empowering individuals and families. I express my gratitude to Camilla and Emma for their tireless advocacy and insightful contributions to the expo.

The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation plays a critical role in improving early diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer, which is a disease that remains one of the deadliest for women due to often late detection. The foundation's campaigns, including Frocktober, raise essential funds and awareness to change that reality. On the day, the expo was honoured to have Vanja. She is a passionate ambassador and ovarian cancer survivor, and she shared her moving story. Her courage inspires hope and highlights the importance of early detection and research. I note this month is Frocktober and encourage everyone to show their support. I hope that Vanja had a wonderful fortieth birthday with her children.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of women's cancer, and we had the support of three different breast cancer organisations: the Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation, the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the McGrath Foundation. The Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation has been a supporter of breast cancer patients since its establishment in 1995 by passionate medical professionals. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in New South Wales, with a lifetime risk of one in seven. The foundation raises funds for patient support and research, helping improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for those affected. I sincerely thank Annie, Patrizia and Lynne for their continuous outstanding work. The National Breast Cancer Foundation funds world‑class research aimed at prevention, early detection and innovative treatments for breast cancer. Its efforts have contributed significantly to rising survival rates and improving care. I acknowledge Cleola and Madeline for their invaluable dedication and ongoing commitment to this cause.

Lipoedema Australia is an organisation that supports women living with a chronic and often misunderstood fat disorder that affects mobility and quality of life. The organisation raises awareness, promotes research and helps improve diagnosis and treatment options. I thank Jen for representing this important community and advocating for better outcomes. I also thank the member for Pittwater for ensuring its inclusion at the expo. Women's Health NSW is a vital organisation committed to promoting equitable access to quality health services for women throughout New South Wales. It advocates for policy change, supports women's health centres, and works to ensure that the diverse needs of women across different backgrounds and life stages are represented. I extend my sincere thanks to Sarah, who represented Women's Health NSW.

Family Planning NSW provides critical reproductive and sexual health services, education and advocacy across the State. Its work empowers women to make informed choices about their bodies and health, promoting equity and accessibility in health care. I thank Caecilia for her expert representation and passionate work in supporting women's health. We also shared resources from QENDO, which has been working since 1988 to improve the lives of individuals affected by endometriosis, adenomyosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome and infertility. The organisations came together at Parliament for the expo in September. They helped transform the space into a hub of learning and awareness, giving members and staff a clearer understanding of the diverse and pressing health issues that women face. These organisations do their work not for recognition but for the lives they touch every day. On behalf of the Parliament, I thank them for their efforts to make New South Wales a healthier, more informed and more compassionate State for women.