Terms of Reference

  1. The number of women in Australia:
    1. who have had transvaginal mesh implants;
    2. who have had transvaginal mesh implants who have experienced adverse side effects; and
    3. who have made attempts to have the mesh removed in Australia or elsewhere.
  2. Information provided to women prior to surgery about possible complications and side effects.
  3. Information provided to doctors regarding transvaginal mesh implants and possible complications and side effects.
  4. Any financial or other incentives provided to medical practitioners to use or promote transvaginal mesh implants.
  5. The types and incidence of health problems experienced by women with transvaginal mesh implants and the impact these health problems have had on women’s lives.
  6. The Therapeutic Goods Administration’s:
    1. role in investigating the suitability of the implants for use in Australia;
    2. role in ongoing monitoring of the suitability of the implants; and
    3. knowledge of women suffering with health problems after having transvaginal mesh implants.
  7. Options available to women to have transvaginal mesh removed.

Committee Secretariat contact:

Committee Secretary
Senate Standing Committees on Community Affairs
PO Box 6100
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600

Phone: +61 2 6277 3515
community.affairs.sen@aph.gov.au