Access to the oral contraceptive pill is set to become easier for women in Victoria, with the state government announcing that adults will soon be able to obtain the medication directly from participating pharmacies without a prescription.
From July, women aged over 18 will be able to access the pill at around 850 pharmacies participating in the Chemist Care Now program. The change allows pharmacists to supply the medication following a consultation, removing the need for a visit to a GP for many women seeking routine contraception.
The Victorian Government says the move aims to reduce wait times for appointments and broaden access to reproductive health services. The consultation with the pharmacist will be free under the program, though patients will still pay for the medication itself.
Pharmacists who provide the service must complete a postgraduate training module before they can supply the pill. During the consultation they are required to assess suitability, explain any health risks and discuss other contraceptive options, including long acting reversible contraception.
Health authorities say the model could be particularly helpful for women living in rural or regional areas, where GP access can be limited or involve longer travel times.
The announcement builds on the Chemist Care Now initiative, which began as a pilot in 2023 and has expanded to cover a range of everyday health services delivered through pharmacies. More than 76,000 consultations have been provided since the program began, according to government figures.
One of the services already available through the scheme is the resupply of an existing oral contraceptive prescription. Around 17,000 women have used that option since the pilot started.
Over the next two years the program is expected to broaden further, with another 23 treatments planned. These include resupply of hormone replacement therapy as well as continued services for conditions such as uncomplicated urinary tract infections, shingles and travel vaccinations.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the policy aims to make healthcare easier to access for women.
“Only Labor has new solutions to make life easier, safer and more affordable,” she said.
“Accessing contraception should not be a burden for women.”
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the change would offer more flexibility for patients.
“We’re giving women more choice and helping them save time,” she said.
Parliamentary Secretary for Women’s Health Kat Theophanous said providing the pill through local pharmacies would bring care closer to communities and simplify routine healthcare.
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