Victorian Grants Back New Research to Improve Women’s Health
27 Jan 2026
The projects are being supported through the Women’s Health Research Catalyst Grants, a Department of Health–led initiative delivered as part of the Victorian Government’s $153.9 million Women’s Health and Wellbeing package. The program aims to improve understanding of how health conditions affect women and to strengthen evidence in areas that have previously received limited attention.
A total of 15 research projects have received funding of up to $150,000 each. The funded studies cover a range of priority areas, including sexual and reproductive health, cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative conditions and chronic pain.
One of the successful recipients is Professor Priscilla Dunk-West from Victoria University, who is leading research into how LGBTQ+ Victorians experience and navigate menopause. The project aims to better understand the diversity of menopause experiences within LGBTQ+ communities and to develop a practical guide to support health professionals.
Professor Dunk-West, a sociologist with a background in sexual health, said there is limited Australian research exploring menopause experiences among LGBTQ+ people. She said both professional expertise and lived experience influenced the focus of the study.
The research places strong emphasis on lived experience, with participants invited to share what they believe health professionals need to understand to improve care. The findings are expected to inform health services in Victoria and beyond.
The study is currently seeking participants in Victoria who identify as LGBTQ+ and who have experienced, or are experiencing, any stage of menopause, including perimenopause or post-menopause.
Further information about the research and the broader Women’s Health and Wellbeing Program is available through the Victorian Department of Health.
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/
(Source: Victorian Department of Health)
