Families receiving IVF will have access up to $2000 for out-of-pocket expenses during treatment under a Liberal ACT government.

Announcing the policy ahead of the ACT October election, Canberra Liberals Leader Elizabeth Lee said the rebates would be available for all ACT families undergoing fertility treatment from an accredited provider to assist with costs not reimbursed by Medicare or private health insurance.

“Infertility affects around one in six Australian couples of reproductive age and the significant out-of-pocket costs involved with accessing these services is a barrier for many women and families who want to undergo this treatment,” Ms Lee said.

Opposition health spokesperson Leanne Castley said the rebates would cover out-of-pocket expenses of up to $2000 incurred when undergoing IVF or certain assisted reproductive technology and up to $1000 for intra uterine insemination (IUI).

“Rebates will also be available for ACT residents who access eligible interstate fertility clinics which may occur where specialised treatment is not offered in Canberra,” she said.

“ACT residents undergoing an eligible fertility treatment, on or after October 1… will be able to claim these rebates –  available as a one-off payment for one cycle of IVF or IUI treatment from an accredited ART provider.”