Women and families across Ballarat can now realise their dream of starting or growing their family – with the Allan Labor Government’s nation-leading public fertility care service now available at Grampians Health.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas today officially opened the new service, which will deliver support and treatment for locals wanting to access fertility care – alleviating additional stress by cutting unnecessary travel time and slashing costs – saving Victorians up to $10,000.

Offering eligible patients a range of services including specialist consultations, diagnostic tests and ultrasounds – it is the sixth service to open in regional Victoria following the launch of satellites in Mildura, Bendigo, Geelong, Shepparton and Warrnambool.

Delivered as part of a $120 million investment by the Labor Government public fertility care will support up to 5,000 people every year once fully operational – easing the financial pressure for thousands of Victorians during what is already a challenging experience for many.

This latest service follows the launch of Australia’s first public egg and sperm bank in July 2023 at the Royal Women’s Hospital which is currently accepting egg, sperm and embryo donations from the community.

It also marks one year since the roll out of public fertility care services in Victoria – the landmark service is already making it easier and more affordable for prospective parents to access vital services on their IVF journey. Since launching in October last year, more than 1,100 Victorians have already commenced their treatment journey.

Access to public fertility care is available through a GP or specialist referral which is sent to the Royal Women’s Hospital who then organise eligible patients to receive treatment at their closest health service.

Local families will also soon have a world-class women’s health, maternity and pediatric services on their doorstep, with work underway on a new half-a-billion-dollar hospital.

More information is available at betterhealth.vic.gov.au/public-fertility-care-services.

Quote attributable to Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas

“We know that the fertility care process can be emotionally challenging that’s why we are ensuring that families within the Ballarat region have access to the best fertility care available.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“The new public IVF service in Ballarat will give access to services for people wanting to have a baby, whilst removing the financial barrier.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“This new service will make it more accessible and more affordable than ever for those across the region, who are wanting to start a family – all while being close by the support of family and friends.”