More women’s health services coming to community pharmacy
The Australian Government has announced plans to expand access to women’s health services through community pharmacy, in partnership with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and its members.
Announced by Federal Health Minister Mark Butler on Friday 13 March 2026, the national women’s health pharmacist prescribing trial will be delivered under the 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement through the Women’s Health Program (WHP).
From 1 January 2027, women will be able to access key women’s health services at participating community pharmacies, including:
- assessment and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- initiation and resupply of selected hormonal contraceptives
What’s changing?
Women in all states and territories can already access treatment for UTIs at participating pharmacies.
The map shows current commitment to hormonal contraception initiation services in states and territories across Australia.
Soon, women will be able to access hormonal contraception services in participating pharmacies, contingent on State and Territory legislation, under the trial.
This will mean easier, more convenient access to care through community pharmacy, with trained pharmacists providing private consultations under nationally consistent program rules.
What happens next?
Further program and eligibility details will be released over the coming months.
To participate in the trial, pharmacies must:
- be willing to deliver both UTI and hormonal contraception services
- ensure pharmacists complete the required training
- have an appropriate private consultation room in place
Further resources
- Refer to our guidance on consult room requirements (Member only)
- Refer to Australasian College of Pharmacy for training information
Page last updated on: 09 June 2026