The Women's Health Services Network is a collective of twelve Victorian Government-funded Women's Health Services, each a centre of excellence in gendered health promotion, primary prevention and gender equity.

We have been a central part of Victoria’s public health infrastructure for four decades, coordinating local place-based health promotion activities, which is enhanced by our collaborative statewide approach. 

We are the only state or territory with this unique infrastructure and reach, supporting the health system to create the best possible health outcomes for women. We use evidence-based research to ensure that women stay well, and if they do need access to healthcare services, that they receive the care that supports their return to health. 

The current work of the women’s health sector is situated within a long history working to advance women’s health and equality in Victoria.

Today, we represent a unique, impactful and value-for-money proposition for the government. We have a strong track record of collective impact and sector leadership that drives our work today.

Infographic of a pyramid split into three prevention groups: On the top of the pyramid is Tertiary prevention – services and interventions to respond to health and wellbeing issues experienced by individuals. In the middle of the pyramid is Secondary

  • “The development of funded women’s health services in the 1980s built on the momentum of 1970s Women’s Liberation activism. It foregrounded the importance of incorporating women’s lived experience and knowledge into health services design, delivery and research. But also, most importantly, it positioned women’s health issues within the context of the overall structure of a society which disadvantaged women and denied the legitimacy of our voices.”

    – Dr Philomena Horsley, medical anthropologist and feminist activist (Healthsharing Women’s Health Resource Service, 1992–1996)

  • “Right from the early days, the women’s health service began collecting information about women’s experiences so that we could provide evidence to influence understandings of women’s health at the policy, legislative and service delivery end, as well as shape and contribute to the research agenda.”

    – Dr Robyn Gregory, women’s health, family violence and prevention of violence against women consultant (Women’s Health West 2008–2021)

  • “Women’s health services are in the unique position of being able to really focus on prevention and taking an effective health promotion approach. Because the sector had a mandate to address women’s health issues, they were able to use that and broaden their activities beyond just individual and clinical health. To broaden thinking around prevention and population impact, rather than just at the individual level.”

    – Sandra Morris, Senior Engagement and Strategy Manager, Birth for Humankind (Women’s Health In the North 2009–2021)