In a powerful move reflecting the voices of young Australians, Y Australia — alongside the Youth Governors and Administrators — has announced Women’s Health as the 2025 National Matter of Public Importance (NMPI). This year’s focus calls for increased education and awareness, free period products in public spaces, reduced stigma, and greater funding for diagnosis and treatment.
For many young people in NSW, this topic hits close to home. “Women’s healthcare being the presiding topic of this year for the NMPI and the Women's Affairs Bill is so incredibly important to me,” shared Sienna, a Year 12 student. “I’ve personally felt the consequences of misconduct and lack of research within women's health, and I’ve seen it impact my family and friends.”
The NMPI will be debated by Youth Parliaments across the country, and in NSW, the Women’s Affairs Committee has taken the lead by drafting a bill that aims to improve the inclusion of women in medical research and eliminate gender bias in healthcare. Their proposals include ensuring women’s symptoms are taken seriously, incorporating women in safety testing (such as vehicle crash tests), and addressing systemic inequalities in medical treatment.
As part of their preparation, the committee met with Julie Anne Mitchell, a health consultant whose career has focused on improving health outcomes through science, research, and public policy. The session sparked deep engagement, with participants asking thoughtful questions and expanding their understanding of the challenges women face in healthcare.
“Whether it’s being prescribed a medication that’s inherently negative for us, or having something extreme missed or dismissed by a medical professional, the women’s health industry is always something on our minds,” said Sally, another Year 12 student. “That’s why I’m so excited that women’s health has become the focal point of this year’s Youth Parliament. I’m ready to advocate for change—not just for myself, but for my friends, my schoolmates, and the generations of young women to come.”
The passion among participants is palpable. Taylah, also in Year 12, reflected, “It validates our struggles and gives us hope for further support in the future. We are so proud to be contributing to this powerful advocacy.”
Importantly, the conversation is inclusive. Lian, the 2025 Youth Governor, emphasised the need to involve boys and men: “When they’re educated about periods and reproductive health, we break down stigma, foster empathy, and move towards a more informed, inclusive society.”
This sentiment was echoed by Julian, the 2025 Youth Premier: “As young men, we may feel removed from women’s health, yet it’s all too easy to overlook the reality of the health challenges women face. These conversations shape a future where care, dignity, and compassion are the standard — not the exception.”
For some, the issue is deeply personal. Lani, a Taskforce Volunteer, shared, “I have a condition called PMDD—something that has little acknowledgement or knowledge about. I hope through this bill, women can read it and know they are not alone.”
And for others, it’s about addressing geographic disparities. Maddie, another Taskforce Volunteer, noted, “Coming from a regional area, I’ve seen how the lack of resources and education puts women at risk. The stigma around discussing women’s health is one of the biggest roadblocks we need to overcome.”
Back to news
