With International Women’s Day having just passed, Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT) have announced that they have provided over 200 free Long Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) insertions thanks to a Government initiative announced late last year.

The Federal Government furthered its commitment to improve women’s healthcare by increasing Medicare rebates and bulk-billing incentives for LARC insertions on 1 November 2025.

By cutting out-of-pocket costs, the door to affordable reproductive healthcare opens for more people. The insertion of long-term contraceptives like the Implanon (AKA The Rod) and IUDs (Intrauterine Device) can offer peace of mind for years to come. The Implanon can provide contraceptive coverage up to 3 years, and an IUD (intrauterine device) can last 5 to 10 years, depending on the brand.

The reform represents a saving of up to $160 for each client. However, there are still some fees attached to the process, such as the gap fee for the initial consultation, which includes a full assessment and discussion of all the contraceptive options, and purchasing the device from a pharmacy.

So far, SHFPACT clients booked for LARC insertions have been pleasantly surprised when their insertion appointments were completely bulk-billed.

“I had been so worried about the cost, this is fantastic!” one SHFPACT client exclaimed.
Helping Canberrans say goodbye to trying to remember when to take a pill or pack a diaphragm, the range of choice ensures everyone can access contraception that is right for them.

“Removing the barrier of an upfront gap fee for insertion means individuals can now make decisions based on personal choice rather than cost,” said Dr Clare Holberton, Senior Medical Officer.
Dr Holberton also said the welcomed change to Medicare funding supports equitable contraceptive choice.

“LARCs are effective, long-term, ‘set and forget’, reversible contraception, and this change represents a substantial and positive step towards gender equity in healthcare.”

Now four months in and with over 200 Canberrans provided with free LARC insertions, Tracey Hall, CEO of SHFPACT, said the welcomed change to Medicare funding is making a real impact in our community.

“Our incredible team have supported 206 people with fully bulk billed LARC insertions since November 1, with many more clients booked in. With cost-of-living pressures increasing, this means people are able to come back for follow-up appointments they might have avoided or put money back in their pocket to pay rent or other rising costs.”