About Bloody Time campaign spurs $49m government funding for endometriosis

Two months after the launch of news.com.au’s About Bloody Time campaign, new specialist help for the more than 1 million Australians with endometriosis has been secured.

From 1 July 2025, women with endometriosis will have longer specialist consultations of 45 minutes or more covered under Medicare, after news that the federal government will invest $49.1 million into tackling the condition. 

Previously, an initial gynaecologist appointment received an $81.30 rebate which covered only 10 minutes of a gynaecologist’s time.

With the new investment, Medicare will cover $168.60 for an initial appointment, and $84.35 for follow-up appointments, compared to the previous rate of $40.85. The investment will provide about 430,000 more services to help women across the country with complex gynaecological conditions.

The About Bloody Time campaign showcased the stories of people living with endometriosis through editorial, video, and social content. The campaign also featured interviews with experts, researchers, and doctors.  

News.com.au launched its About Bloody Time campaign on 1 March to encourage legislators to add a Medicare item number to the condition, to help more women be diagnosed sooner. 

The goal was to reach 20,000 signatures on its petition by International Women’s Day. That goal was achieved in 24 hours, with the petition securing 55,000 signatures in just over a week.

Health Minister Mark Butler said he was “deeply moved by the women who spoke about their experience with endometriosis during the About Bloody Time campaign”.

“I hope through this announcement today they feel listened to,” he said.

Editor-in-chief Lisa Muxworthy said the team wanted to use news.com.au’s audience of almost 13 million “to advocate for change and lift the standard of care nationwide.”

“The win today highlights the importance of journalism and our ability to build a better Australia for all Australians. We are all here to make a difference, push boundaries and have the courage to challenge the way things are done.”