This Newsletter covers Federal and State policy and legislative developments in the area of health. Copies of documents referred to can be obtained by clicking on the reference in this Newsletter or through Capital Monitor's collection at www.capitalmonitor.com.au or from the source quoted.
Major Announcements
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
09 June
ATAGI recommendations on first booster dose in adolescents aged 12-15 years
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends that a first booster dose of the Comirnaty (Pfizer) COVID-19 vaccine may be given to the following adolescents aged 12-15 years who have completed a primary course of vaccination 3 or more months ago:
- those who are severely immunocompromised
- those who have a disability with significant or complex health needs
- those who have complex and/or multiple health conditions that increase the risk of severe COVID-19
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NT: Public Health Emergency to end
On June 16, the public health emergency will end in the Northern Territory. Over the last two years, the declaration has enabled the Chief Health Officer to issue Directions to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep Territorians safe. The NT Government has always acted to protect all Territorians, particularly their most vulnerable, and the COVID-19 pandemic was no exception. Recently passed legislation allows us to cease the public health emergency, while retaining ability to respond to COVID-19 and its variants for up to 2 years.
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SA: COVID-19 update
There have been 2,801 new cases of COVID-19 reported in South Australia, said the SA Department of Health. There are currently 17,093 active cases in South Australia. There are 234 people with COVID-19 in hospital, including five people in ICU. Of those hospitalised, 130 people have received three or more vaccine doses, 79 people are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated and 25 have an unknown vaccination status. Due to a reconfiguration of the data, the total number of cases has been readjusted
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WA: COVID-19 update
WA Health is reporting a total of 7,871 new cases. There are currently 38,420 active cases in Western Australia. There were 293 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 16 in ICU. Sadly, the report includes five new deaths dating back to 22 May which were reported to WA Health; two men in their 80s; a woman her 80s; a man in his 70s; and a woman in her 50s. Due to confidentiality requirements, no further information on these cases will be released by the Department.
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08 June
SA: COVID-19 Update 8 June 2022
There have been 2,995 new cases of COVID-19 reported in South Australia, said the SA Department of Health. There are currently 17,171 active cases in South Australia. There are 237 people with COVID-19 in hospital, including five people in ICU. Of those hospitalised, 133 people have received three or more vaccine doses, 85 people are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated and 19 have an unknown vaccination status. Due to a reconfiguration of the data, the total number of cases has been readjusted.
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WA: COVID-19 update: 8 June 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 7,720 new cases to 8pm June 7th. There are currently 38,293 active cases in Western Australia. To 8pm June 7th, there were 283 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 15 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes eight new deaths dating back to 19 April which were reported to WA Health yesterday; a woman over 100, a woman and man in their 90s, a woman and man in their 80s, and three men in their 70s. Due to confidentiality requirements, no further information on these cases will be released by the Department.
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07 June
WA: COVID-19 update 7 June 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 5,787 new cases to 8pm June 6th. There are currently 38,598 active cases in Western Australia. To 8pm June 6th, there were 290 people with COVID19 in hospital, 15 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes two new deaths dating back to 3 May which was reported to WA Health yesterday; a man in his 90s and a man in his 70s. Due to confidentiality requirements, no further information on these cases will be released by the Department.
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06 June
NT: NT COVID-19 update
There were 143 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the Northern Territory in the 24 hours to 8pm on 5 June 2022, according to NT Health. Of these, 128 were positive cases from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). There were 74 cases recorded in the Top End region, 33 in Central Australia, one in East Arnhem, 15 in the Big Rivers region, no cases in the Barkly region and 20 are under investigation. There are currently 12 patients in hospital. There no patients requiring oxygen and no patients in ICU. The number of active cases in the NT is 1,308.
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WA: COVID-19 update 6 June 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 4,849 new cases to 8pm June 5th. There are currently 41,244 active cases in Western Australia. To 8pm June 5th, there were 279 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 16 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes one new death dating back to 30 May which was reported to WA Health yesterday; a man in his 80s. Due to confidentiality requirements, no further information on these cases will be released by the Department.
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03 June
Individual fined $2,664 for alleged unlawful advertising in relation to COVID-19
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued one infringement notice totalling $2,664 to a Queensland based individual for alleged unlawful advertising of therapeutic goods in relation to COVID-19. Any representation made in the advertising of therapeutic goods which refers to COVID-19 (explicit or implied) is a 'restricted representation' and cannot be used without prior approval from the TGA. The TGA has issued a warning about illegal advertising relating to COVID-19. If you suspect non-compliance in relation to therapeutic goods, you can report illegal or questionable practices online to the TGA. The TGA encourages the reporting of suspected non-compliant advertising.
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Aged Care
09 June
Aussies urged to take a half-time toilet break for bowel cancer this State of Origin series
With the NRL State of Origin set to kick off in Sydney, Australians are being encouraged to take a half-time toilet break during the 2022 series and do a test to help save lives from bowel cancer. The Australian Government, Cancer Council and the National Rugby League (NRL) have teamed up to encourage eligible Australians to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. The program provides people aged 50-74 years with free bowel screening tests every two years. Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler agreed it was vital more Australians do their free test.
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03 June
Palliative Care Australia welcomes Health Ministers to the Ministry
Palliative Care Australia (PCA) welcomes the appointments of Mark Butler MP as the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney MP as the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care and Anika Wells MP as the Minister for Aged Care and Sport under the new Government Ministry. CEO Camilla Rowland said PCA is looking forward to working with the Ministers to ensure the Australian community can experience better health and end-of-life outcomes by improving access to high-quality palliative care.
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety
None this edition.
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Allied Health
None this edition.
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Children's Health
07 June
TAS: Expansion of child and adolescent mental health services at the RHH
Children and young people in need of mental health support will benefit from an expansion in children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) at the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH). The capacity of CAMHS at the RHH will be expanded with the extension of staffed hours until 10pm, seven days per week, to respond to child and adolescent mental health presentations and inpatient needs. Under previous arrangements, CAMHS were available at the hospital Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5pm.
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Clinical Governance
07 June
Medicines Australia congratulates new shadow ministry appointments
Medicines Australia congratulates the new shadow ministry, announced over the weekend by Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, congratulated Anne Ruston on her appointment as the Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Andrew Gee on his appointment as the Shadow Minister for Regional Health and Gavin Pearce on his appointment as Shadow Assistant Minister for Health, Aged Care and Indigenous Health Services. 'These are extremely important portfolios, made even more so by the impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic. It is vital that Australians have timely access and equity of access to the latest medicines, vaccines, and treatments when they need them, no matter where they live.'
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06 June
QLD: Commission of Inquiry into DNA testing conducted by Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services
QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a Commission of Inquiry into DNA testing at Queensland's Forensic and Scientific Services. It will be conducted by the former President of the Court of Appeal, retired judge Walter Sofronoff. The Premier said issues raised by Queensland police late last week over the thresholds of DNA testing prompted the need for the Inquiry. 'The people of this state must have confidence in the reliability of these results,' the Premier said. QLD Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said the Inquiry would ensure the community can have confidence in QLD's forensic services. QLD Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman said the community is well-served by former Judge Sofronoff.
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TAS: Launch of Tasmanian Health Senate
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff has announced that a new Tasmanian Health Senate will be launched to bring together health expertise to provide advice on issues of statewide and strategic importance to the health system. Delivering on a key commitment made through the Our Healthcare Future reforms, the Tasmanian Government will establish a statewide Clinical Senate which will be co- designed with key stakeholders. Health Senates across Australia and overseas have been found to make a positive impact on healthcare reform and clinical engagement by strengthening the clinical and consumer voice in health planning.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure
None this edition.
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Dental
None this edition.
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Disabilities
07 June
Independence Australia Group to join forces with Zest Care
Independence Australia are pleased to announce that on July 1, 2022, their company will be joining together with Zest Care Australia. This announcement marks a significant and exciting change to the organisation to better serve the interests of people living with a disability or other personal need as a new, unified organisation. Zest Care is a person-centred organisation, and registered NDIS provider, offering a range of services to support vulnerable children and people with disabilities. Whilst most of Zest Care's services operate across NSW, they also deliver services in Queensland and Victoria.
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
06 June
Hearing to examine education pathways for children and young people with disability
Public hearing 24 will commence on Monday 6 June in Canberra for five days. The hearing will examine the experiences of children and young people in different primary and high school education settings, including what are commonly referred as special schools with a focus on Western Australia and South Australia. The Royal Commission will hear evidence about the pathways provided by different education settings from early childhood through to high school and transitions to life after school.
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E-Health
None this edition.
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Education and Training
None this edition.
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Funding
NSW: $743 Million to enhance end-of-life care in NSW
09 JUN: Premier Dominic Perrottet, Treasurer Matt Kean, Minister for Health Brad Hazzard and Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor have announced that NSW residents will have access to the highest quality care and pain management services at the end of their life, with palliative care and specialist health services to receive a record $743 million funding boost over the next five years. Mr Perrottet said the 2022-23 funding boost is on top of the $300 million the NSW Government invests each year in palliative care. 'We're committed to ensuring NSW has the best palliative care services and support in Australia, if not the world,' he said.
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Health Professionals
09 June
Pharmacy rentals on the agenda at Pharmacy Connect 2022
Pharmacy owners and managers attending this year's Pharmacy Connect will be provided with expert advice on how to best position and negotiate lease arrangements, in a dedicated session presented by one of Australia's leading industry experts, announced the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Pharmacy Connect is the Pharmacy Guild of Australia's key event in the second half of the year and is being held on 1-3 September at the Hilton Sydney. The rentals session, titled 'Pharmacy rentals: COVID-19 impact - where are we heading?' will outline some of the key take-outs from The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Rental Report and will discuss how meticulous planning is key before any rental negotiation.
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08 June
AMA calls for Queensland Parliament to fix bad legislation and protect patients from unscrupulous advertising
Australian Medical Association (AMA) President Dr Omar Khorshid will appear before a Queensland parliamentary committee to push for amendments to a Bill which will see significant changes to regulations covering doctors and other registered health professionals, and potentially put the public at risk of unscrupulous advertising practices. Dr Khorshid said the Bill, in its current form, would remove the ban on cosmetic surgery testimonials, despite the industry being the subject to a number of inquiries at the moment. 'Testimonials can be fake or taken out of context and the limited protections in the Bill offer little comfort and will prove to be unenforceable.'
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Flu TV ads
The importance of getting a flu shot this season is being emphasised through Pharmacy Guild of Australia's television advertising campaign aired nationally. The advertisements highlight that the best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated with vaccines available at your local community pharmacy. A Guild spokesperson said every indication was this would be a very severe flu season. 'The combination of COVID-19 and a severe flu season makes having a vaccination all the more important this year to help prevent against influenza and its complications,' the spokesperson said.
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Australians urged to get vaccinated against influenza
This year, for the first time, Australia will be managing COVID-19 and an influenza season. As Australia moves into the winter 2022 season it is increasingly important that people protect themselves from both COVID-19 and influenza. The winter 2022 period will be the first time Australia will be managing both COVID-19 and the influenza season. Acting Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Sonya Bennett has issued a statement encouraging all Australians able to get vaccinated for influenza to do so.
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HIV self-testing
Access to self-testing is one of the pillars of Australia's HIV prevention strategy. The Therapeutic Goods Administration in late 2021 expanded access to these tests from limited sexual health outlets to community pharmacy. AIDS response organisations have described availability of the self-test devices as a critically important additional tool to help people know their HIV status. The move to offer HIV self-test devices through community pharmacies is consistent with the National HIV Strategy 2018-2022. This Strategy includes a priority to 'improve the frequency, regularity and targeting of access to testing for priority populations and to decrease the rate of late diagnoses'.
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Nominate your favourite pharmacy for prestigious award
Nominations open for the prestigious Pharmacy Guild of Australia's 2023 Pharmacy of the Year awards. The 2023 awards will continue the format from last year where members of the public, as well as those in the profession, are invited to nominate their favourite pharmacy. Last year this resulted in a record number of nominations. The awards are recognised as the benchmark for excellence in the community pharmacy sector. They seek to identify highly motivated and adaptable pharmacy practices which stand out for their delivery of innovative and effective healthcare to support their community.
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Bowel cancer awareness
June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a highlight of which is Red Apple Day on 15 June. Every year, 15,206 Australians are diagnosed with bowel cancer (293 a week), including 1,542 people under the age of 50. Pharmacy Guild of Australia said that bowel cancer claims the lives of 101 Australians every week (5,255 people a year) - but it's one of the most treatable types of cancer if found early. While the risk of bowel cancer increases significantly with age, the disease doesn't discriminate, affecting men and women, young and old. Some 293 Australians will be diagnosed with bowel cancer this week (15,206 people a year).
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07 June
HESTA said UN rights of Indigenous Peoples declaration has many benefits
Applying the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) principles in Australia would lead to greater certainty for investors, better outcomes for Indigenous Australians and strong returns for members, Health Employees Superannuation Trust Australia (HESTA) said. The UNDRIP establishes universally applicable minimum standards for the survival, dignity, wellbeing and rights of the world's First Peoples and is the result of more than two decades of negotiations between various governments and First Peoples representatives. HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said the Fund takes its obligation to advance the ambitions of reconciliation in Australia very seriously.
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NT on alert for Japanese encephalitis
Northern Territory residents and visitors are being reminded to protect themselves from mosquito bites following an increase in the number of feral pigs that have tested positive for Japanese encephalitis (JE) in the Top End region. Since March 2022, 44 feral pigs infected with JE have been detected in the Victoria Daly, Litchfield, Marrakai-Douglas Daly and Cox-Daly region, as well as the Tiwi Islands. Nina Kurucz, Director of the Medical Entomology Unit, NT Health, said JE is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes that can infect humans and animals, such as pigs, horses and some birds.
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06 June
Call for applications - CMBA Examination Committee
The Australian Healthcare Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has announced that the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) is calling for applications for appointment to the CMBA Examination Committee. The CMBA has established the Examination Committee to ensure the Board has access to the necessary expert advice on written and clinical examination results in accordance with good assessment practice and examination governance. The committee will also make recommendations to the Board related to the operation of the examinations. The National Scheme has a commitment to increasing Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples' leadership and voices.
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Hospitals
09 June
NSW: $743 Million to enhance end-of-life care in NSW
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, NSW Treasurer Matt Kean, NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard and NSW Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor have announced that NSW residents will have access to the highest quality care and pain management services at the end of their life, with palliative care and specialist health services to receive a record $743 million funding boost over the next five years. Mr Perrottet said the 2022-23 funding boost is on top of the $300 million the NSW Government invests each year in palliative care. 'We're committed to ensuring NSW has the best palliative care services and support in Australia, if not the world,' he said.
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8 June
VIC: Calls for more investment in regional hospitals
In Parliament recently Victorian Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy urged the Victorian Government to start investing more money on a health system in all of Victoria's towns, Wangaratta is under enormous pressure as are smaller towns like Cobram, Yarrawonga, Myrtleford that are struggling to maintain health services within their community. Mr McCurdy said, 'As we reach June 2022, it's no surprise that the health services are crippling across the State. Wait times for ambulance services for instance are occurring in the Melbourne as well as regional communities.'
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07 June
TAS: Expansion of child and adolescent mental health services at the RHH
Children and young people in need of mental health support will benefit from an expansion in children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) at the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH). From this week, the capacity of CAMHS at the RHH will be expanded with the extension of staffed hours until 10pm, seven days per week, to respond to child and adolescent mental health presentations and inpatient needs. Under previous arrangements, CAMHS were available at the hospital Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5pm.
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Insurance
None this edition.
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Medicare
None this edition.
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Men's Health
None this edition.
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Mental Health
9 June
TAS: Students waiting too long for support
'Tasmanian students are waiting too long to see school support staff, with often disastrous results for their mental health,' said Tasmanian Shadow Minister for Education and Early Years Josh Willie. 'The Education Department has confirmed during budget estimates hearings that average wait times for school support staff are at an alarming 140 days to see a school psychologist, 28 days for an intervention and 108 days to see a speech pathologist. There are currently 47.6 full-time equivalent speech and language pathologist positions funded across the Education Department. However, 15.23 of these positions - or 32 per cent - are vacant.'
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07 June
QLD: Inquiry gives light to mental health
The Queensland Government has welcomed the findings handed down by the parliamentary Mental Health Select Committee after several months of public consultation. QLD Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D'Ath said the government would review and consider the findings and recommendations into the Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders. 'This report gives us an opportunity to better understand the needs and demand pressure of the state's mental health system. 'The Inquiry addressed the current needs and impacts on the mental health service system in Queensland.
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VIC: Strengthening our mental health services
The Victorian Government is supporting more Victorians through their mental health and drug and alcohol recovery journeys, upgrading vital services to get more people the care they need, when they need it. Victorian Minister for Mental Health James Merlino and Victorian Minister for Health Martin Foley announced 31 Victorian mental healthcare and alcohol and drug services will share in $20 million from the Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Facility Renewal Fund. Established in 2016 as part of the Government's work to improve access for Victorians to quality mental health, alcohol and drug treatment, the Fund will deliver 45 projects across the state including upgraded telehealth infrastructure, facility expansions, new clinical areas, waiting rooms and building refurbishment works.
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VIC: Opening the front door to more mental health support
The Victorian Government is building a mental health system that works for all Victorians - helping people get the care they need immediately, in their own communities. Victorian Minister for Mental Health James Merlino announced that 30 Mental Health and Wellbeing Hubs, opened in late 2021 in communities across Victoria, will continue to provide care until Mental Health Locals open across the state. Building Victoria's mental health system from the ground up won't happen overnight. It's a reform that will take years to deliver.
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06 June
Australia Post pays it forward with Community Grants focusing on Australia's mental health and wellbeing
Applications are open for Australia Post's 2022 Community Grants program, helping build community connections to support the mental health and wellbeing of Australians across the country. Not-for-profit groups across Australia can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects with the primary purpose of improving mental health and wellbeing in local communities. Last year's program saw half of all grants made to organisations in regional and remote locations. Australia Post Head of Community, Nicky Tracey said past recipients included projects such as friendship and buddy programs, peer support groups for young people.
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Higher flu vaccination rates in health care staff needed
A decrease in the rates of influenza vaccination among health care and aged care workers in 2021 means the provision of planning and support to achieve very high influenza vaccination uptake this year is critical, according to research by the Medical Journal of Australia. A study conducted by Dr Lin-li Lim, an infectious diseases physician at the Victorian Healthcare Associated Surveillance System at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, and colleagues found that the influenza vaccination rate in acute health care facilities staff rose from 83.2% in 2018 to 93.0% in 2020, but fell to 77.4% in 2021.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
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Pharmaceuticals and Regulation
03 June
Individual fined $10,664 for alleged unlawful importation of covid-19 rapid antigen tests
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued four infringement notices totalling $10,664 to an individual for alleged unlawful importation of covid-19 rapid antigen tests (RATS). It is alleged that the individual imported 13,500 rats that were not included in the Australia Register Of Therapeutic Goods (Artg) at the time of importation. The rats were seized at the border and will not be released. The TGA publishes a list of all covid-19 rapid antigen self-tests that are approved for the Australian market.
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SA: Budget supports pharmacists to provide best care
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA)'s South Australian branch congratulates the SA Government and Health Minister Chris Picton on the state budget, and increasing support for South Australian pharmacists. The 2022-23 SA Budget delivers on SA Labor's election commitments to trialling 24-hour pharmacies, as well as investing in medicine safety and mental health training for pharmacists. With this new funding, pharmacists will be able to conduct medication reviews, better help patients with mental ill-health warning signs, and assist patients with respiratory illnesses.
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Research
09 June
Stem-cell models reveal glaucoma secrets
Stem cell models of the retina and optical nerve have been used to identify previously unknown genetic markers of glaucoma, in research jointly led by scientists from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, the University of Melbourne, and the Centre for Eye Research Australia. The findings open the door to new treatment for glaucoma, which is the world's leading cause of permanent blindness. 'We saw how the genetic causes of glaucoma act in single cells, and how they vary in different people. Current treatments can only slow the loss of vision, but this understanding is the first step towards drugs that target individual cell types,' said Professor Joseph Powell, joint lead author at the Garvan.
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08 June
WA: Mission to United States to promote WA
Western Australia's Innovation and ICT and Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson is on the ground in the United States of America to boost and advocate for WA as a world- leading destination for health and medical research, innovation and ICT and further develop the life sciences sector. The Minister's mission includes leading a WA delegation representing 13 organisations from across the health and medical research and life sciences sector at the Biotechnology Innovation Organisation (BIO) International Convention in San Diego, which is set to address opportunities for the industry including drug discovery, bio-manufacturing, genomics, biofuels, nanotechnology and cell therapy.
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VIC: New blood test could spare thousands of colon cancer patients from unnecessary chemotherapy
Researchers have developed a new blood test that could revolutionise how chemotherapy is used for colon cancer, by identifying the patients that need chemo and those that can be safely spared treatment. More than 450 patients and over 20 hospitals from across Australia were involved in the world first clinical trial, which investigated the blood test as a promising aid to cancer treatment decision-making. The study, co-led by Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) and the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Centre in the US, found the test could accurately predict which patients would benefit from chemotherapy after their cancer is surgically removed.
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New projects announced for National Drug Discovery Centre
Four research projects have been awarded generous Australian Government subsidies to fast-track their discoveries into new medicines using the National Drug Discovery Centre (NDDC), according to WEHI. The centre provides researchers in Australia with access to the latest in advanced robotic high-throughput screening to enable patients to potentially benefit from novel treatments sooner. The four new projects will focus on finding new treatments for a range of diseases including acute myeloid leukaemia, cancers and lung disease. The subsidies cover 90 per cent of the cost of using the NDDC, reducing the cost of a traditional screening campaign - normally upwards of $300,000 - to around $30,000 - $45,000.
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Rural, Regional and Remote Health
8 June
VIC: Victorian man walks 200km in a stand against rural health shortages
'A lack of healthcare options for regional Victorians diagnosed with dementia was the catalyst for a nearly 200km walk from north-east Victoria which arrived at Victorian Parliament in Melbourne,' said Victorian Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh. 'I was on the front steps of Parliament with a celebratory whiskey in hand to meet Kyabram health champion Mick Simpson as he completed the 190km walk to raise awareness and funding for dementia research. Mr Simpson, 66, was diagnosed with dementia in 2018, prompting a four-year campaign to reduce the stigma and boost support for rural people in the first 12 months after their diagnosis.'
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VIC: Calls for more investment in regional hospitals
In Parliament recently Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy urged the Victorian Government to start investing more money on Victoria's health system in all of Victoria's towns, Wangaratta is under enormous pressure as are smaller towns like Cobram, Yarrawonga, Myrtleford that are struggling to maintain health services within their community. Mr McCurdy said, 'As we reach June 2022, it's no surprise that the health services are crippling across the State. Wait times for ambulance services for instance are occurring in the Melbourne as well as regional communities.'
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03 June
Rural health stays high on agenda for new Government
Emma McBride, new Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Rural and Regional Health, has been welcomed by the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA), who say her appointment is a good sign that rural health is high on the Government's priorities. RDAA Immediate Past President, Dr John Hall, said that the position of an Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health was discretionary for the government, and it was very pleasing to see it remain after the changeover. 'We warmly welcome Minster McBride to this very important role, and look forward to working with her towards progressing Labor's policy commitments to rural health,' Dr Hall said.
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Women's Health
None this edition.
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Transcripts
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
09 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Amanda Keller & Brendan Jones, WSFM
Subjects: QUAD meeting, Indonesia visit, COVID-19, Multiculturalism, Reducing emissions, Moving to Canberra, Kirribilli House
Minister for Federal Territories Kristy McBain
09 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Lish Fejer, ABC Radio Canberra, Breakfast
Subjects: New portfolios, Voluntary assisted dying, Open debate, Range of projects, Collaboration, Discussion, Light Rail, Debt, Public Spending, Taxpayer funds\
Minister for Education Jason Clare
08 JUN: Transcript of Speech
Subjects: Amazing stories, Incredible people, National challenges, COVID-19, Pandemic, Isolation, Hurdles, Opportunities
Minister for Education Jason Clare
08 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Leila Mckinnon, Today Show
Subjects: Interest rates, Boris Johnson, G20, Interest rate rises, Childcare, Cost of medicine, RBA
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
06 JUN: Transcript of Statement at the Annual Leaders' Meeting, Jakarta, Indonesia
Subjects: Relationship, G20 summit, COVID-19, Economic uncertainty, Trade and investment, Economic partnership agreement, Climate and infrastructure
Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler
06 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Leila McKinnon & Charles Croucher, Today Show
Subjects: COVID-19, Healthcare, Aged care, Omicron variant, Flu season, Pay rise, Fair Work Commission, Medicare rebates, GP, Hospitals
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic
02 JUN: Transcript of Address to the Science meets Parliament gala dinner, Canberra
Subjects: Technology, Science, Lockdowns, COVID-19, Quality of life, Research, Universities, National Reconstruction Fund, Medical manufacture
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Reports
PHI 30/22 Second-tier updates - Paper
Department of Health
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COVID-19 vaccine weekly safety report
Department of Health
The most frequently reported side effects suspected to be associated with the vaccines include headache, muscle and joint pain, fever, chills and nausea. Skin reactions at the site of the injection are also common and can include pain, swelling, redness and an itchy rash. These are recognised side effects of vaccination and are usually transient and mild. More information about what to expect and how to manage any symptoms after you receive your vaccine are available from NPS MedicineWise.
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National Guidelines to improve coordination of treatment and supports for people with severe and complex mental illness
Department of Health
In these Guidelines, the nine recommendations are for government and non-government health and social care services and sectors. When implemented, these recommendations will enhance the coordination of treatment and supports for people with severe and complex mental illness. These recommendations are the product of extensive consultation and consensus-based processes. These recommendations are aspirational, and services and sectors should work together to achieve them. These recommendations do not provide implementation strategies. These will need to be individually tailored and developed according to the stakeholder and jurisdiction involved in providing treatment and supports to people with severe and complex mental illness.
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Higher GI cancer detection rates but less cancers found during covid lockdown
Medical Journal of Australia (MJA)
Re-triaging endoscopies to make more urgent cases the priority during Melbourne's COVID-19 lockdowns led to higher cancer detection, according to research by the Medical Journal of Australia. However, with less cases performed due to the lockdown, overall numbers of cancers found were lower. The study, conducted by Dr Daniel Schneider from Monash Health and colleagues, was a retrospective analysis of endoscopic procedures at Monash Health during the 2020 lockdowns (24 March - 1 May, 2 August - 28 September 2020) and the corresponding periods in 2019.
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Achieving person-centred primary health care: a value co-creation approach
Medical Journal of Australia (MJA)
Australia's medical professions and consumer bodies support the need for a stronger primary health care system which focuses on person-centred care and the Quadruple Aim, according to the authors of a Medical Journal of Australia supplement. The supplement -- Achieving person-centred primary health care: a value co-creation approach - includes seven articles by authors from the Client Focused Evaluation Program Surveys, Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited, Quality Innovation Performance Limited, Care Opinion, Prestantia Health, the University of Queensland, the University of Canberra, the Consumer Health Forum.
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Volume 216 No 10
Medical Journal of Australia (MJA)
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Greening up: Environmental sustainability in general practice
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
On World Environment Day the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is promoting environmental sustainability in general practice. The college has released an innovative resource to inform and support GPs and general practice teams to reduce their environmental footprint and fight climate change. The resource is part of the RACGP general practice business tool kit, and can be used by practices in all corners of Australia to become a more environmentally sustainable practice as well as identify, reduce and manage the adverse health effects of climate change.
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QLD: Report No. 1, 57th Parliament - Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders
QLD, Mental Health Select Committee
This report has considered all aspects of the continuum and identified significant opportunities to improve mental health and wellbeing in Queensland including:
- planning and governance of mental healthcare
- developing a mental health and wellbeing strategy
- reducing stigma and encouraging help-seeking
- developing workplace and small business prevention strategies
- providing housing and employment support
- implementing more person-centred case management and support
-expanding services across the continuum, including in perinatal and infant mental health, child and youth mental health, adult and older persons mental health
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TAS: Drivers of Tasmania's future population health needs - June 2022
TAS, Department of Health
This paper focuses on the characteristics of the Tasmanian population which are likely to drive future health service need, in particular demographics and population health, and projections of future health service utilisation. The measures used in this paper were chosen due to their widespread acceptance as drivers of future health service need and the availability of data. There are a range of other factors which will influence future health service need. Therefore, the data and projections in this paper are not intended to be used in isolation, but rather as part of a suite of planning tools.
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Hansards
Federal
03 JUN 2022: SENATE NOTICE PAPER: Questions on Notice - 4630 Senator Patrick: Minister for Health - What are total external legal costs to date in Administrative Appeals Tribunal matter of Montagner & Secretary, Department of Health
Australian Capital Territory
01 JUN 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Adjournment - Seniors - Health and Wellbeing -
01 JUN 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Supplementary Answers to Questions Without Notice - ACT Health - Elective Surgery
01 JUN 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Statement by Chair - Health and Community Wellbeing - Standing Committee
01 JUN 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - ACT Health - Elective Surgery
01 JUN 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - ACT Health - Nurses
01 JUN 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Committees - Health and Community Wellbeing - Standing Committee - Report 6
09 MAY 2022: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Estimates - Inquiry into Racial Vilification - Standing Committee on Education & Community Inclusion - Discrimination, Health Services, Disability & Community Services Commissioner, Human Rights Commission
New South Wales
09 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Taylah Mitten Back to Tenterfield Hospital
09 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Renal Unit at Bowral and District Hospital
09 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Wyong Hospital Staffing
09 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Westmead Hospital Palliative Care
09 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Canowindra Soldiers Memorial Hospital Centenary
09 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Southern NSW Local Health District Midwifery Team
09 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Deniliquin Hospital
09 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Written Answers to Supplementary Questions - Inverell Hospital
09 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Deferred Answers - Griffith Base Hospital and Covid
09 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment Debate - Seafarer Mental Health
08 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Central Coast Health Workforce
08 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Thank You Steve Brierly - CEO of St Vincents Hospital Lismore
08 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Rural Health Workforce Shortages
08 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - New Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment Debate - Hunter Health Services
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Supplementary Questions for Written Answers - Inverell Hospital
08 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Summer Fund-Raising For Heart Health
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Documents - Health Asset Management - Return to Order
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment Debate - Rural Health Services
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Inverell Hospital
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Take Note - Rural Health Services
08 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Rural Health Services
08 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Campbelltown Hospital
07 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Amendment Bill 2022 - Assent
07 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - Work Health and Safety Amendment (Industrial Manslaughter) Bill 2021 - Messages
07 JUN 2022: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Deferred Answers - Health Services Electoral Materials
07 JUN 2022: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Petitions - Petitions Received - Rural Health Department
Tasmania
07 JUN 2022: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Estimates Committee B - Justice Portfolio - Output Group 1 - Office of the Ombudsman - 1.1 Decisions on Complaints Referred to the Ombudsman and Health Complaints Commissioner and Right to Information
06 JUN 2022: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Estimates Committee A - Mental Health Portfolio
06 JUN 2022: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Estimates Committee A - Mental Health Portfolio - Opening Statement
06 JUN 2022: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Estimates Committee A - Health Portfolio - Opening Statement
06 JUN 2022: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Estimates Committee A - Health Portfolio
Victoria
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice and Ministers Statements - Health Services
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice and Ministers Statements - Health System
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Members Statements - Mental Health
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Members Statements - South-West Coast Electorate Health Services
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice and Ministers Statements - Ministers Statements - Health Services
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Adjournment - Smythesdale Health Services
09 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice and Ministers Statements - Ministers Statements - Mental Health Reform
09 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice and Ministers Statements - Health Justice Partnerships
09 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment - Maternal and Child Health Services
08 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - Children and Health Legislation Amendment (Statement of Recognition and Other Matters) Bill 2022 - Statement of Compatibility, Second Reading, Debate Adjourned
08 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions without notice and ministers statements - Health Services
08 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions without notice and ministers statements - Health System
08 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - Health Legislation Amendment (Conscientious Objection) Bill 2022 - Introduction and First Reading
08 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Statements on reports, papers and petitions - Environment and Planning Committee - Inquiry into the Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Victoria
08 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment - Western Metropolitan Region health services
08 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Members statements - Portland district health
08 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Statements on reports, papers and petitions - Department of Health - Documentation on the making of pandemic orders implemented on 22 April 2022
07 JUN 2022: VIC COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment - Brimbank Mental Health Services
07 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - Children and Health Legislation Amendment (Statement of Recognition and Other Matters) Bill 2022 - Introduction and first reading
07 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions without notice and ministers statements - Health system
07 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Members statements - Health services
07 JUN 2022: VIC ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Members - Minister for Health - Absence
20 MAY 2022: VIC ESTIMATES HANSARD: Public Accounts and Estimates Committee - Inquiry into the 2022-23 Budget Estimates - Health Portfolio
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Court Cases
None this edition.
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New Regulations
Federal
National Health (Pharmaceutical Benefits) (Subsection 84C(7) Price) Amendment Determination 2022
Legislative Instrument- FL202200737
Subsection 84C(7) of the National Health Act 1953 (the Act) provides that the Minister may determine, by legislative instrument, the manner in which the price for particular quantities or numbers of units of all or any pharmaceutical benefits is to be ascertained for safety net purposes. Paragraph 84C(8)(d) of the Act provides for the addition of fees or amounts as determined by the Minister with the agreement in writing of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, as required by subsection 84C(9) of the Act.
Explanatory Statement
Commonwealth price (Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by approved pharmacists) Amendment Determination 2022
Legislative Instrument- FL202200736
The Commonwealth price (Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by approved pharmacists) Amendment Determination 2022 (Amendment Determination) amends the Commonwealth price (Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by approved pharmacists) Determination 2020 (the Principal Determination), to increase the Tier 1 Administration, Handling, and Infrastructure fee (Tier 1 AHI fee), the Dispensing fee for Ready Prepared Pharmaceutical Benefits, the Dispensing fee for Extemporaneously Prepared Pharmaceutical Benefits, and the Dangerous Drug fee, as specified in the Seventh Community Pharmacy Agreement (Seventh Agreement), on 1 July 2022. A copy of the Seventh Agreement can be found at the Department of Health's website at: https://www.pbs.gov.au/info/general/seventh-community-pharmacy-agreement.
Explanatory Statement
Australian Capital Territory
09 JUN 2022: ACT, GENTLEMEN: Work Health and Safety (Fees) Determination 2022 - Disallowable Instrument DI2022-81
Western Australia
09 JUN 2022: WA, SANDERSON: Extension of Western Australia Declaration (No.3) of Public Health State of Emergency - Section 170 - Public Health Act 2016
08 JUN 2022: WA, DEPT OF HEALTH: Public Health Act 2016 - Sections 157(l)(e), 157(1)(k), 180 & 190(l)(p) - Restrictions on Access (Revocation) Directions
08 JUN 2022: WA, DEPT OF HEALTH: Public Health Act 2016 - Sections 157(1)(e), 157(1)(k), 180 & 190(l)(p) - Disability Support Accommodation Worker (Restrictions on Access) Directions
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Proclamations
None this edition.
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Gazette Notices
New South Wales
07 JUN 2022: NSW GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. 243: Government Notices - Health and Education
Queensland
03 JUN 2022: QLD GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: Extraordinary Gazette - Mental Health Act 2016 - Section 329 - Declaration - Authorised Mental Health Service - Vol. 390, No. 24
Victoria
G 23: Government and Outer Budget Sector Agencies Notices - Health Complaints Act 2016 - Section 90 - Interim Prohibition Order - 3 Notices
G 23: Government and Outer Budget Sector Agencies Notices - Health Complaints Act 2016 - Section 94 - Order to Revoke an Interim Prohibition Order - Matthew William Nettleton
Western Australia
07 JUN 2022: WA GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: General Gazette 75 - Health
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Consolidated Legislation
National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Instrument 2012
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2022C00599
PB 71 of 2012 Other as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Amendment Instrument 2022 (No. 5)
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New Bills
Australian Capital Territory
Public Health Amendment Bill 2021 (No 2) - LA 2R debate 7/6, LA passed with amendments 7/6
Domestic Violence Agencies Amendment Bill 2022 - LA 2R debate 9/6, LA passed 9/6, Awaiting Notification
New South Wales
Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Amendment Bill 2022 - Assent 6/6, Act No. 24 of 2022
Children's Guardian Amendment Bill 2022 - LC 2R debate 9/6, LC passed 9/6
Child Protection (Working with Children) Amendment Bill 2022 - LC 2R debate 9/6, LC passed with amendment 9/6
Disability Inclusion Amendment Bill 2022 - LC 2R debate 7/6, LC 2R debate 9/6, LC passed with amendments 9/6
Motor Accidents and Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 - LA agreed to LC's amendments 8/6, Awaiting Assent
Rock Fishing Safety Amendment Bill 2021 - LC 2R debate 8/6, LC passed 8/6
Victoria
Children and Health Legislation Amendment (Statement of Recognition and Other Matters) Bill 2022 - LA intro 7/6, LA Statement of Compatibility 8/6, LA 2R 8/6
Health Legislation Amendment (Conscientious Objection) Bill 2022 - LC intro 8/6
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New Acts
New South Wales
An Act to make miscellaneous amendments to the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013
The object of this Act is to amend the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013 to-
- update a reference to the Department of Regional NSW consequent on a recent administrative change, and
- provide that the regulator is to be known as the NSW Resources Regulator, and
- express penalties for offences as penalty units, rather than monetary values, for consistency with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, and
- provide that, when determining whether a person is suitable to be appointed as an industry safety and health representative, the Minister may make enquiries about the person's suitability, including a nationwide criminal record check and other relevant probity checks, and
- provide that the person appointed Chair of the Mining and Petroleum Competence Board must be independent of the entities that may nominate prospective board members, and
- enable the service of documents on a person or a body corporate by email to an email address specified by the person or body corporate.
LA: Notice of Motion 29/03/22
LA: 1R 30/03/22, 2R 30/03/22, 10/05/22, Passed 10/05/22
LC: 1R 10/05/22, 2R 12/05/22, Passed 12/05/22
Assent 06/06/22, Act No. 24 of 2022
Commencement: This Act commences on a day or days to be appointed by proclamation.
Northern Territory
An Act to amend the Personal Injuries (Liabilities and Damages) Act 2003.
Purpose of Bill
Notice of Motion 30/03/22
Intro 31/03/22, 2R 31/03/22, 19/05/22, Passed (with amendments) 19/05/22
Assent 02/06/22, Act No. 13 of 2022
Commencement:
- This Act, except Parts 3, 4 and 5, commences on the day after the day on which the Administrator's assent to this Act is declared.
- Part 3 commences on 30 September 2022.
- Subject to subsection (4), Parts 4 and 5 commence on the day fixed by the Administrator by Gazette notice.
- If a provision of Part 4 or 5 does not commence before 22 March 2024, it commences on that day.
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