The Government will allocate $2.5 million to endometriosis research, as part of the first-ever national plan to address the disease that affects one in 10 women.

"We are determined to do more to support endometriosis sufferers around Australia," Health Minister Greg Hunt and MPs Nola Marino and Nicolle Flint said in a joint statement.

Endometriosis symptoms: Unusually intense period pain

Unusually intense period pain Pain on or around ovulation

Pain on or around ovulation Bowel or bladder problems

Bowel or bladder problems Heavy or irregular bleeding

Heavy or irregular bleeding Fatigue Source: Endometriosis Australia

They called the action "overdue", saying support for women with endometriosis was "much needed" and they wanted to move quickly on the plan, seeking to "improve the treatment and diagnosis of endometriosis".

Advocates have previously criticised a lack of research funding for the incurable disease, in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other parts of the body.

It takes an average of seven to 10 years for women to be diagnosed, with no such thing as an endometriosis specialist, because of its "complicated maze of symptoms" — including debilitating period pain, heavy or irregular periods, bowel and bladder issues and fertility problems.

Hopes for improvement in diagnosis, treatment

Endometriosis Australia said it hoped the funding would mean an improvement in diagnosis and treatment for women with the disease.

"These research funds announced today will help to address the burden of disease for Australian women with endometriosis," board chair Dr Karen Luxford said.

"New research will investigate how we can help women to get diagnosed sooner and then supported by improved treatments."

Researchers will be invited to submit grant applications in the coming months for the funding, to come out of the Medical Research Future Fund.

In December, Mr Hunt formally apologised to women with endometriosis for not helping sooner, and announced the national plan to address the disease.

Last month, he met with women who have endometriosis, medical experts, advocates and researchers to form the national plan.

It also includes a $160,000 research grant for the National Health and Medical Research Council, and a campaign for education and awareness.