Starting November 1, Australian women will gain access to the NuvaRing contraceptive through the government's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), reducing its cost from $130 to a maximum of $25 per script.

This initiative is part of a broader $573 million women's health package aimed at increasing access and affordability of contraceptives, including IUDs and implants, benefiting around 300,000 women annually and saving them up to $400.

Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized that these reforms address longstanding gaps in women's healthcare by increasing choice and reducing costs.

This move recognizes the need to address long-standing gaps in women's health research and support, with potential economic and productivity benefits.

From January 1, the maximum women will pay per contraceptive script will decrease to $25, further improving affordability.

The NuvaRing is a hormonal vaginal ring inserted for three weeks, then removed for a week, offering 99.5% effectiveness when used correctly, comparable to other hormonal contraceptives.

Australia's low uptake of long-acting contraceptives is partly due to access and affordability issues, and the new policies seek to improve these barriers.

While side effects like acne, bloating, weight gain, and reduced libido are similar to those of the pill, the NuvaRing may be preferable for women who experience stomach issues with oral contraceptives.

Women Minister Katy Gallagher highlighted that these reforms are about providing genuine reproductive health choices for women, free from financial and access barriers.

Currently, Australia has one of the lowest rates of long-acting contraceptive use among developed nations, highlighting the need for these changes.

Initially, the NuvaRing will cost general patients $31.60 and concessional patients $7.70, with further reductions to $25 from January 1, 2026, making it more accessible.

The government will also invest in free training for healthcare providers to increase the number of qualified practitioners for IUD insertion and removal, improving access to long-acting contraceptives.