How 57,000 women are shaping health policy in Australia

Researchers from the University of Newcastle and the University of Queensland have created the largest and longest-running women’s health study in Australian history – and its findings are shaping policy and practice at the state, national and international levels.

Diving into some of the most pertinent issues facing women across all ages, the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (also known as Women’s Health Australia) offers the most comprehensive databank of information about women’s health in the country.

Established in 1996, the ALSWH has tackled issues such as the health implications of violence and abuse, mental health, the impact of multiple chronic conditions, and housing and residential care for older women, among others.

The study collects data about the physical and mental health of more than 57,000 participants across four age cohorts: those born between 1921-26, 1946-51, 1973-78 and 1989-95.  Regular surveys also capture insights on a broad range of health factors including the use of health services, health behaviours, risk factors, socio-demographic factors and more.

In 2023, the study’s oldest active participants are turning 102, giving researchers unprecedented insights into issues that affect women throughout their lifespan.  The unprecedented size and scope of the study has enabled researchers to gain unmatched access into the issues facing women of all ages.

Research methodology

Study data is linked with that from national administrative datasets such as the Medicare Benefits Schedule, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and National Death Index. It also links to state and territory datasets including hospital admissions, perinatal data, and cancer registries.

• physical and emotional health (well-being, major diagnoses, symptoms)
• use of health services (GPs, specialist and other visits, access, satisfaction, hospital admissions, maternity, aged care)
• health behaviours and risk factors (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol and other drugs)
• time use (paid and unpaid work, family roles and leisure activities)
• socio-demographic factors (location, education, employment, family composition)
• life stages and key events (childbirth, divorce, widowhood).
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These datasets serve as a platform for evaluating policies and strategies such as perinatal mental health screening, access to psychological services and health assessments.

Data collection and integration

The surveys collect information from each age cohort at varying times, depending on their stage of life.  In 2023, the project’s oldest active participants are turning 102, giving researchers the opportunity to collect data from women aged between 18 and 102 years of age.

Professor Julie Byles

In recognition of the importance of this project and its ongoing impact on shaping women’s health policy and practice, the Australian Government provided $8.5 million to extend the program another three years, until 2023.