A boost to clinics for vulnerable women will help more access health care while reducing strain on public hospitals, the NSW government says.
More than $34 million announced in the state budget has now been allocated to women's health centres around the state, with regional areas to benefit from almost $9 million.
Some $10 million is being spent in western Sydney, with a total of 19 centres funded across metropolitan and regional NSW.
Women's health centres predominantly care for women from disadvantaged backgrounds or who are experiencing domestic violence, who make up the majority of their 50,000 clients every year, the government said.
The funding boost is expected to provide for more staff, reducing waitlists for counselling appointments and enabling the clinics to offer healthcare services to more women.
Some of the funds will also go to adapting the services in response to emerging demographic trends and population growth, with $369,500 also allocated to peak body Women's Health NSW to increase capacity.
"Women who come to our services need specialised care. The work we do and will continue to do will save lives," Women's Health NSW chief executive Denele Crozier said.
Premier Chris Minns said the funding will boost healthcare services available to NSW women, as well as ease pressure on the state's hospital system.
"This is a vital investment to ensure women have access to key health services across our state," Mr Minns said.
The funding will make it easier for women to access care without the obstacle of travelling too far, Women Minister Jodie Harrison said.
"These centres are vital in providing a safe place for women who might otherwise fall through the cracks and are critical in removing barriers to health care by providing women the care they need in their own communities," she said.
Regional areas receiving a boost to funding for their women's health centres include Bathurst in the state's central west, Coffs Harbour and Lismore in the north, and Albury-Wodonga and Wagga Wagga in the south.
Australian Associated Press
