Women’s Health, Policy & Progress with Senator Marielle Smith

In this episode, we sit down with South Australian Senator Marielle Smith, a passionate advocate for women’s health, equity and access; to explore what real change looks like at the policy level, and how it translates to everyday women seeking care.

What We Cover

• Marielle’s Story & “Why”

A look into who Marielle is, what a typical week in Parliament involves, and the personal experiences that fuel her commitment to women’s health advocacy.

• Senate Inquiry into Perimenopause & Menopause

Key findings from the national inquiry, including gaps in diagnosis, education, and access to care—and what women across Australia said they need most.

• The 2025 Federal Investment in Women’s Health

What the upcoming funding means for:

• Perimenopause support

• HRT accessibility

• Pelvic pain management

• Better pathways for frontline, multidisciplinary care

Medicare & Pelvic Health Physiotherapy

A practical breakdown of what Medicare currently covers, where the major gaps sit, and why improving access to pelvic health physiotherapy is essential.

• What’s Next in Women’s Health Policy

Marielle shares what she’s working on now from expanding early-access services to strengthening allied health integration and her vision for improving women’s health in the years ahead.

Follow Marielle @senatormariellesmith