2025-04-17
The Greens would make IVF more affordable for all by doubling the Medicare rebates, and removing the remaining discrimination against gay male couples accessing subsidised IVF treatment through altruistic surrogacy.
Last week, the Government made welcome changes to permit single and gay women to access subsidised IVF by updating the definition of infertility. But by excluding altruistic surrogacy, Labor’s changes mean male same-sex partners still miss out.
The Greens plan will fix that and make IVF more affordable and accessible for everyone.
Lines attributable to Larissa Waters, Greens Leader in the Senate and Spokesperson on Women
“It’s time Medicare rebates stopped discriminating against gay couples, and supported all Australians who want to use IVF services by making it more affordable.
“The Greens are once again ready to take bold action to help people while the major parties tinker around the edges.
“For years the medical definition of infertility excluded LGBTIQA+ people from claiming Medicare rebates for IVF leaving the queer community to pay more for IVF.
“We welcome Labor expanding the definition to include single or gay women, but male same-sex partners and those without someone who can carry their baby still miss out.
“Altruistic surrogacy is legal nationwide, however the government neglected it in the new definition.
“This leaves gay male intended parents without Medicare support for IVF, because they can not carry the pregnancy themselves, even though the treatment is identical to other infertility cases.
“Right now, those needing IVF due to genetics, sexuality, or injury are forced to pay $16,000–$18,000 per cycle – three times what parents on Medicare support pay. Cost should not prohibit a future family.
“Both the Greens initiated Universal Access to Reproductive Healthcare Inquiry and the Medicare Review Taskforce have recommended expanding Medicare rebates for IVF services.
“Medicare rebates for IVF need to be offered to those who need it, so that everyone can have access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare.
Lines attributable to Stephen Bates, spokesperson on LGBTQIA+
“When it comes to altruistic surrogacy, same-sex couples are still unable to access the same support as their heterosexual peers. The costs for LGBTIQA+ couples are astronomical and this financial barrier is stopping them from starting a family.
“We urge Labor to work with the Greens to fully implement the recommendations of the Inquiry and Taskforce, to cover LGBTIQA+ families under Medicare.”