Women and families across Greater Geelong can now realise their dream of starting or growing their family with world class public IVF service now available at Barwon Health.
Geelong residents now have access to the Allan Labor Government’s cutting-edge public IVF service at Barwon Health, marking a significant stride towards affordable and accessible fertility care for women and families in the Greater Geelong region.
The new satellite service arrived this week, aiming to provide essential fertility support, treatment, and consultations locally, reducing the need for extensive travel and significantly lowering costs—a potential saving of up to $10,000 for Victorians.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
This strategic move is part of the government’s $120 million investment in public fertility care, addressing the unique needs of regional Victoria. Geelong joins Mildura, Bendigo, and Warrnambool as the fourth location to host this vital service, offering specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and ultrasounds to eligible patients.
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The public fertility care initiative is projected to assist up to 5,000 individuals annually, providing approximately 3,375 treatment cycles. By making these services publicly available, the government aims to alleviate financial burdens associated with fertility treatments, supporting families during what can be a challenging and emotionally charged experience.
“This new service in Geelong will be life changing for many people across the region, helping them realise their dream of starting or growing their family, whilst alleviating financial stress and the need to constant travel,” says Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas.
This latest addition to the public fertility care network follows the launch of Australia’s first public egg and sperm bank in July 2023 at the Royal Women’s Hospital. The bank is actively accepting donations from the community, contributing to the broader initiative of making fertility care more accessible to all.
As Victoria marks one year since the inception of public fertility care services, the impact is evident, with over 1,100 Victorians embarking on their treatment journey since October last year.
Access to public fertility care is facilitated through GP or specialist referrals sent to the Royal Women’s Hospital. The hospital then coordinates treatment at the nearest health service for eligible patients.
This milestone aligns with the ongoing development of a world-class women’s health, maternity, and pediatric services hub—the Barwon Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The half-a-billion-dollar facility will feature birthing suites, outpatient clinics, and neonatal care units, ensuring comprehensive care for families in the region.
For further details and information on public fertility care services, head here.
