WOMEN’S Health West will launch an autobiography this week to celebrate 21 years of Victoria’s first regional women’s health service.

REtroSPECT charts Women’s Health West from its start in 1988 to today and its aim to change the conditions that cause and maintain women’s oppression, deliver family violence services and undertake health promotion actions.

“Looking back at 21 years of work, it seems clear that Women’s Health West has been part of a big change in community attitudes,” Women’s Health West chief executive Robyn Gregory said.

“There is greater community recognition of the importance of equality for women and the seriousness of violence against women.”

Former Victorian Premier Joan Kirner will launch the book on Wednesday at the Incinerator Arts Complex, Moonee Ponds from 4.30pm.

REtroSPECT will be distributed for free to community centres, libraries and educational institutions. It is available on request from Women’s Health West.