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)
11 November
QLD: 786 Interstate truckies get vaccinated in as second jab deadline looms
Queensland says thank you to all truck drivers who have rolled up their sleeve to keep communities safe as the deadline for second jab gets closer. Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey reminded truckies that changes to entry border requirements would come into effect from 1am Monday, 15 November. 'New changes to border entry requirements for truck drivers mean that drivers must now have had their second dose of vaccine or have proof of a second booking,' Mr Bailey said.
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10 November
Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine (SPIKEVAX) - provisional determination granted for proposed use in children and booster shot for adults under evaluation
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), part of the Department of Health, has granted a provisional determination to Moderna Australia Pty Ltd in relation to its COVID-19 vaccine, SPIKEVAX. Currently, SPIKEVAX is provisionally approved for use in individuals 12 years of age or older. The granting of this determination means that Moderna Australia Pty Ltd is eligible to apply to vary the provisional approval for the vaccine for use in younger children. In making its decision to grant Moderna a provisional determination, the TGA considered evidence of a plan to submit comprehensive clinical data in relation to use in children.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander vaccination rates a critical risk as holiday season approaches
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) says Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities are at increased risk as Australia opens up, due to dangerously lagging COVID-19 vaccination rates. As the holiday season approaches and people start moving around the country and mingling more, vaccine coverage among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities continues to lag behind non-Indigenous populations. While currently 80.6% per cent of all Australians aged 16 and older are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and 89.4% have had one dose, that figure sits at 54.5% fully vaccinated and 66.2% one dose for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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ACT: COVID-19 vaccination certificates now available in the Check In CBR app
The Check In CBR app can securely store and show COVID-19 digital certificates. Users will be able to add their certificate to the app through a secure verification process using either their Express Plus Medicare App or myGov account. 'We heard from our community that having the option to demonstrate their vaccination status quickly and easily was an important to them, so the Check In CBR team has been working closely with the Australian Government to add this feature to the app,' said ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith.
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NT: Territory check in app updated to link to vaccination certificate
Vaccinated Territorians can now link their COVID-19 digital vaccination certificate to the Territory Check In app, making it easier to confirm their vaccination status. When required by a CHO direction, Territorians will be able to show their vaccination status upon entering a premises simply by using the Territory Check In app. All existing proof of vaccination forms, including hard copy and digital certificates will continue to remain valid, said NT Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Paul Kirby and NT Minister for Health Natasha Fyles.
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NT: COVID-19 Update: Wastewater detected in Katherine and new case recorded
One new case of COVID-19 has been recorded in the NT in the past 24 hours. This case is not connected to the Greater Darwin / Katherine cluster. A 20-year-old male from Victoria has tested positive for COVID-19. The man is a member of the Australian Defence Force and went straight into quarantine at Bladin Village Quarantine Facility upon arrival into the NT. He is being transferred to Centre for National Resilience, said the NT Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet.
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QLD: Vaccine mandate extends to private health, aged care, and disability sectors
The Queensland Government will mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for all private healthcare staff across the state, including staff working in hospitals, aged care and disability services. Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D'Ath announced the Workers in a Healthcare Setting (COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements) Direction to ensure more protection for vulnerable Queenslanders. 'Under this Direction, everyone working in healthcare must be vaccinated by 15 December, including private health workers,' Minister D'Ath said.
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QLD: Vaccine milestone to relax rules for home quarantine
Home quarantine will become more accessible for returning Queenslanders and eligible interstate travellers once the 70 per cent double-dose vaccination mark is reached. Queensland Minister D'Ath said the success of the recent home quarantine trial had informed the changes. 'We evaluated the trial and it was very successful and safe,' Ms D'Ath said.
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TAS: Well done Tassie - 80 per cent of Tasmanians 16 and over fully vaccinated
'Tasmania has passed a significant milestone in its COVID-19 vaccination roll out, with 80 per cent of those aged 16 years and above now fully vaccinated. This is an important step on our path to safely reconnect Tasmania when borders open on December 15. The Tasmanian Government has continually prioritised the health and safety of Tasmanians throughout the pandemic. Vaccination is not only the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and the community against COVID-19, it is also one of the best ways to ensure our hospitals do not become overwhelmed,' Tasmanian Minister for Health Jeremy Rockliff.
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9 November
Over 300,000 COVID-19 vaccines rolled out to Queenslanders through community pharmacies
In a watershed moment, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA), Queensland Branch, announced that Queenslanders had accessed more than 300,000 COVID-19 vaccines through their local community pharmacies. The PGA's Queensland President, Chris Owen, congratulated Queenslanders for getting their vaccines and encouraged those who had not yet received a COVID-19 vaccination to visit findapharmacy.com.au to find their closest community pharmacy to book their free COVID-19 vaccination. 'Following an announcement made by the Federal Government last week, the Pfizer vaccine will become available in community pharmacies this week, as the country begins to put its booster vaccination program into motion.'
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NT: Doherty Institute Modelling Released by National Cabinet
Modelling and research from the Doherty Institute was released by National Cabinet. NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner said the modelling showed the Northern Territory was on track to become one of the very few places in the world to succeed in suppressing Covid-19 long enough to get vaccination rates up so the health system could cope once the virus arrives. The modelling shows that at 80% fully vaccinated over age 16 - which the Territory will hit in the next few days - the NT's health system could handle 30-100 COVID cases a day. The predicted peak ICU demand under such a scenario is six beds at any one time.
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NT: COVID-19 Update: Lockout to end for Darwin. One new positive case recorded
The NT Department of Chief Minister & Cabinet said that Greater Darwin will exit lockout at 11:59pm. From this time, there will be no restrictions on the reasons to leave home for people who are vaccinated and unvaccinated. A mask mandate will remain in place in Greater Darwin and Katherine regions until Friday 12 November 2021. Face masks must be worn outside of the home when you are unable to maintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres.
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QLD: Clock ticking for COVID-19 Business Support Grant applications
Queensland businesses impacted by the August COVID lockdown have one week left to apply for the Government's COVID-19 Business Support Grants. More than 30,000 businesses have already received grants of up to $30,000, but Queensland Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer has urged those yet to apply to check their eligibility before it's too late. 'Backing small business is at the heart of our $14.5 billion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan and that's why we are providing the jointly-funded COVID-19 Business Support Grants,' Minister Farmer said.
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TAS: All areas of health ready to reconnect
Tasmanian Minister for Health Jeremy Rockliff said that the Tasmanian Government has a comprehensive plan to ensure it can safely and responsibly reopen and reconnect Tasmanians, and this plan pays particular attention to the health system. Therefore, with a highly vaccinated population from December onwards, the majority of people will be treated at home or in another community setting. The Department of Health is finalising the COVID@home plan, which recognises home is the preferred treatment setting, while ensuring patients are safe and supported.
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WA: 'Super Vax Weekend' drives WA's first dose rate past 80 per cent
WA Premier Mark McGowan and WA Minister for Health Roger Cook said that Western Australia's first dose vaccination rate has now surpassed 80 per cent (12 years and over), after the success of 'Super Vax Weekend' which saw 28,271 Western Australians get vaccinated - an increase on the previous weekend. This included 15,574 doses administered at WA Health State-run COVID-19 vaccination clinics, including pop-ups at eight Bunnings stores and at a range of other community locations. The remaining 12,697 vaccines were administered through the Commonwealth's primary health networks, including GPs and pharmacies.
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8 November
Start of COVID-19 booster vaccination program
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that the Australian Government's COVID-19 booster vaccination rollout program officially gets under way, with the initial focus on residential aged care and disability facilities. Everyone living in Australia aged 18 and over who has completed their primary two-dose course of vaccination at least six months ago is now eligible to have an additional booster shot. The booster rollout program will initially target population groups that were prioritised for early vaccination because the great majority of people within these cohorts are now ready for their booster vaccination, having had their second dose six or more months ago.
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COVID-19 vaccination highly effective during Delta outbreak in NSW
The Department of Health said that fully vaccinated people have been significantly less likely to become seriously ill or die, and better protected from acquiring COVID-19, during the Delta outbreak in NSW. Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant highlighted the findings in the latest NSW Health In Focus report which shows hospitalisations, ICU admissions and deaths were all far lower among the fully vaccinated population during the outbreak's peak. Dr Chant said the report also makes it clear fully vaccinated people were significantly less likely to become infected with COVID-19.
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7 November
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
NSW Health recorded 244 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19. No new cases were acquired overseas and seven cases have been excluded following further investigation, bringing the total number of cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic to 76,628. Sadly, NSW Health is reporting the death of a man in his 60s from Albury who died at Box Hill Hospital in Victoria. He was not vaccinated. NSW Health expresses its sincere condolences to his loved ones. NSW has recorded 537 COVID-19 related deaths since 16 June 2021 and 593 in total since the start of the pandemic.
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6 November
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
NSW Health recorded 270 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19. One new case was acquired overseas and five cases have been excluded following further investigation, bringing the total number of cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic to 76,391. Sadly, NSW Health is reporting the deaths of three people. A woman in her 30s from western Sydney died at Westmead Hospital. She was not vaccinated and had underlying health conditions. A man in his 60s from Wollongong died at Wollongong Hospital. He was not vaccinated and had underlying health conditions.
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5 November
Booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine
The Department of Health said that booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for people aged 18 and over in Australia. The vaccines are most effective when you've received two doses of the same vaccine. The first dose of your vaccine will begin to build up a protective response against COVID-19 in your body. The second dose will boost your immune response to give you long-term protection against COVID-19. Without the second dose, your body will not be able to fight the virus as effectively.
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Hotspot for the purposes of Commonwealth support declared for Katherine
The Department of Health declared a Hotspot for the purpose of Commonwealth support for the Municipal of Katherine (including Tindal) from 11:59pm on 4 November until 11:59pm on 7 November 2021 (noting the NT lockdown commenced at 12:01am on 5 November for 72 hours). The occurrence of a case who was infectious in the Katherine community, and the unknown source of acquisition leading to concerns about undetected community transmission, pose an exposure risk to the people within this area, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
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COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests
TGA progressed work that would allow the provision of self-tests for COVID-19. The timing and introduction of self-testing has been critically dependent on achieving specific higher vaccination rates as outlined in the National Plan to Australia's COVID-19 response. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will make a new regulation (Specification) by 1 October 2021 that will allow companies to formally apply for TGA regulatory approval after 1 October, in order to legally supply their self-tests for use at home in Australia after 1 November 2021.
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Calling on Australians to Vote for public health
Australia's health and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic can be accelerated if the next federal government reflects on the lessons from COVID-19 and takes concerted action to improve the health and wellbeing of every person, the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) said. The country's peak public health body has launched its priorities for the upcoming federal election which emphasises efforts across seven areas - all of which have remained important even while the coronavirus pandemic has been the most immediate concern. 'COVID-19 continues to compromise human health, disrupt our society and economy and challenge all three levels of government in our federal system,' said PHAA CEO, Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin.
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Aged Care
10 November
Statement on mandatory vaccination of aged care in-home and community aged care workers
The Department of Health and the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) noted that mandating a COVID-19 vaccination for aged care in-home and community aged care workers providing services to senior Australians provides an important protection for vulnerable senior Australians during this emergency. AHPPC recommends the following national framework for the mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirement for in-home and community care, be established under state and territory public health. Further, AHPPC recommends the first dose of a TGA approved COVID-19 vaccine by 30 November 2021 and a second dose by 31 December 2021.
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Disability Support Workers
Visitation to residential aged care in Victoria
The Australian Aged Care Collaboration (AACC) has called on the Victorian Government to urgently review a decision to allow unvaccinated visitors to residential aged care homes in the State. The AACC has written to the Victoria Chief Health Officer, Professor Brett Sutton seeking a meeting as a matter of urgency. The AACC is a group of six aged care peak bodies representing more than 1000 aged care providers delivering care to nearly a million older Australians.
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WA: Seniors Strategy will put older Western Australians at front of mind
WA Minister for Seniors and Ageing Don Punch said that the WA Seniors Strategy 2022-2032 will set out the WA Government's 10-year plan to support older people, and harness the opportunities and address the challenges of WA's ageing population. The Department of Communities will lead the development of the 10-year strategy which will include State-wide consultation to ensure the views of as many seniors as possible are captured. Central to the strategy's development will be the voices of seniors and what is important to them.
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9 November
New Aged Care Visitor Access Code released for public consultation to balance COVID safety with dignity and respect
Australians are invited to consult on the revised Industry Code for Visiting Aged Care Homes, developed by 12 aged care consumer and provider organisations led by Council on the Ageing (COTA) Australia, to balance reasonable safety measures in aged care while respecting the rights of older Australians and their emotional wellbeing. It proposes that during a local outbreak aged care homes be classified into one of three categories, each with its own infection prevention and control measures: Code Green (minimal COVID-19 in the local government area), Code Orange (heightened risk due to COVID-19 in the local government area) or Code Red (an exposure or outbreak has occurred inside the Aged Care Home).
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5 November
Growing and supporting Australia's health system and aged care capacity
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that the Australian Government is supporting the states and territories to increase the capacity of the health system, as the country enters the next phase of the National Plan to re-open and live with COVID-19. In total, the Government has committed more than $32 billion in additional health expenditure in response to COVID-19. To further support the states and territories, the Government will extend the Minimum Hospital Funding Guarantee for an additional year (to 30 June 2022) in recognition that COVID-19 is still having a significant impact on public hospitals, particularly in New South Wales and Victoria.
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COVID-19 vaccine push to protect senior Australians at home
The Government has opened a $20 million grant program for home care providers to increase and report on the vaccination rate of their workforce. More than 175,000 senior Australians are on a home care package with the services they receive provided by around 116,000 home care workers. Minister Hunt said the grants would give home care providers extra assistance to ensure the safety of their clients. The approval of the program follows the meeting of National Cabinet which continues to act on the advice of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee.
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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
None this edition.
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Clinical Governance
None this edition.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure
None this edition.
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Dental
None this edition.
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Disabilities
10 November
Statement on mandatory vaccination of aged care in-home and community aged care workers
The Department of Health and the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) noted that mandating a COVID-19 vaccination for aged care in-home and community aged care workers providing services to senior Australians provides an important protection for vulnerable senior Australians during this emergency. AHPPC recommends the following national framework for the mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirement for in-home and community care, be established under state and territory public health. Further, AHPPC recommends the first dose of a TGA approved COVID-19 vaccine by 30 November 2021 and a second dose by 31 December 2021.
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Disability Support Workers
8 November
More than 484,000 Australians now supported by the NDIS
The latest quarterly report (attached) for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) demonstrates the increased efforts to build a better NDIS for participants and their families and carers. National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) CEO Martin Hoffman said the latest report shows the Scheme's progress, successes and challenges during a time when the nation is working to emerge from COVID-19. 'I'm pleased today's report shows the NDIS is supporting 484,700 participants, with more than half of whom hadn't received support before the NDIS,' Mr Hoffman said.
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5 November
Ready to Go Home project launched in the Great Southern
National Disability Services (NDS) said that Ready to Go Home (RTGH) aims to improve the transition experience for people with disability from hospital to community settings. The Great Southern RTGH working group met for the first time on Thursday, 21 October 2021 in Albany. The Great Southern RTGH Working Group is collaboratively working to address delays in long-stay patient discharge for people with disability. It is also striving to improve the hospital-to-home transition experience. In the Great Southern, locally identified factors contributing to discharge delays for people with disability include: waiting for accommodation, funding and supports.
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
None this edition.
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E-Health
None this edition.
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Education and Training
9 November
VIC: New TAFE training hub to boost Melbourne's health sector
Work is officially underway on Kangan TAFE's new Health Hub in Melbourne's north that will train the next generation of Victorian health heroes. Victoria Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney visited the Essendon campus to turn the first sod on the $2 million project, which will cater for about 900 health students from 2022. The new facility will feature two nursing simulation labs, a pathology simulation lab, a nursing storeroom and other training and staff spaces. Enrolments in health courses at Kangan have grown by about 60 per cent in five years. The new hub will cater for even more students in a wide range of healthcare fields like nursing, allied health, aged care, pathology and dentistry.
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Funding
11 November
WA: $850,000 to support improved health outcomes for cancer patients
Four Western Australian cancer specialists will share in $850,000 of WA Government funding in 2022 as part of the WA Cancer and Palliative Care Network (WACPCN) Cancer Fellowship program. In its ninth year, the program supports medical practitioners to expand their experience and skills that will ultimately lead to improved health outcomes for cancer patients. The 2022 Fellowships were awarded on merit and will help achieve the State Government's WA Cancer Plan 2020-2025 priorities which include the development of WA's genetic oncology expertise and reducing the disparities in cancer outcomes for Aboriginal people, said WA Minister for Health Roger Cook.
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9 November
SA: Heart of the Repat now complete
SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said that Health services in the southern suburbs and throughout the State have received another boost with construction complete for the Town Square and the wheelchair sports stadium at the Government's revitalised Repat Health Precinct. On the fourth anniversary of Pete Malinauskas closing the Repat as Labor's Health Minister, SA Premier Steven Marshall said the $115 million redevelopment of the precinct has reached a significant milestone. 'This Government has invested in returning the Repat back to a thriving health precinct for the community, while also creating about 400 jobs for South Australians through construction,' said Premier Marshall.
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7 November
$62 million in grants to improve Australians health
The Government is supporting nine Australian researchers with almost $62 million to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians by accelerating research knowledge and outcomes into health care and practice. Funded through the Government's Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), the 2020 Rapid Applied Research Translation (RART) Grant Opportunity is investing $216 million over 10 years and focuses on turning research findings into real health benefits that help Australian patients. Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt, said Australia continues to be a global leader in health and medical research, which will help us improve and save lives.
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Health Professionals
11 November
NSW: Dr Min Sein - Medical Practitioner - Unsatisfactory Professional Conduct - Reprimand and Conditions
The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission prosecuted a complaint against general practitioner Dr Min Sein before a Medical Professional Standards Committee. On 25 August 2018 Dr Sein was working as in-charge of the Belmont Hospital emergency department. A patient arrived by ambulance with a history of being unable to move her legs and leave her car for approximately three hours. After interviewing the patient and her carer, Dr Sein authorised her discharge from the hospital.
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10 November
NSW: Cancelled registration for unsatisfactory professional conduct and professional misconduct
The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission prosecuted a complaint against Mr Tony Saab, pharmacist, before the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal ('The Tribunal'). It was alleged that, between January 2015 and March 2017 when Mr Saab was a co-proprietor and pharmacist at the Pharma Save Pharmacy, Granville, Sydney, he dispensed substantial quantities of Schedule 8 and Schedule 4D drugs to 38 persons, including opioids and anabolic steroids, as well as, which were not for a therapeutic purpose.
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Dr Mohammed Jaffer
Dr Sharif Fattah
Dr Masoud Mohammadi
9 November
Two Year Anniversary of the National Incident Centre
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that it is important to acknowledge the service of all those who have been involved in the heath response to the pandemic. The National Incident Centre (NIC) has been in continual operation for more than two years, frequently operating around the clock to help coordinate Australia's response to the COVID- 19 pandemic. As the Department of Health's emergency operations centre, the NIC has performed many roles and has adopted new ones in its response to the pandemic.
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5 November
NSW: Health Equity Alliance Urges NSW Government to Take Further Action on Climate Change
NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) and Health Equity Alliance said that a coalition of non-government organisations, peak bodies and academic representatives have come together to urge the NSW Government to take further action to address climate change. The Healthy Equity Alliance, which includes the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS), has released a Climate Statement outlining seven priorities that NSW can take in response to the climate crisis. The release of the Climate Statement comes as world leaders attend the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow.
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Hospitals
11 November
VIC: Partial elective surgery resumption leaves patients waiting
The Victorian Government had 18 months to prepare Victoria's health system for a surge in COVID cases. They failed to do so. As a result Victoria's health system is in crisis and the elective surgery suspensions have meant more Victorians are waiting in pain, with their health conditions deteriorating. The decision by the Government to partially resume elective surgery is a step in the right direction for tens of thousands of Victorians, but it doesn't go far enough. Throughout the pandemic, elective surgery has continued to be suspended by the government, said Victorian Shadow Minister for Health Georgie Crozier.
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10 November
VIC: More elective surgery to resume
More elective surgery will resume in Melbourne and Geelong from Monday, with current COVID hospitalisation numbers allowing for a safe and modest restart of non-urgent elective surgery in the private sector. Private hospitals and day procedure centres in Melbourne and Geelong will be able to scale up to 50 per cent of their normal elective surgery lists, including non-urgent surgeries, provided enough capacity is kept aside to assist with the COVID response. This will ensure that non-COVID public patients can continue to be treated at private hospitals, to help free up beds for COVID patients at public hospitals, said Victorian Minister for Health Martin Foley.
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5 November
Transition Care Program to ease NT hospital pressure
The Government will invest more than $780,000 for 10 new permanent transition care places to better cater to the needs of senior and vulnerable Territorians. Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services Richard Colbeck and Senator for the Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said the additional places, made available through the Government's Transitional Care Program offered peace-of-mind for those seeking care and their families. 'The Northern Territory is a small, remote jurisdiction, and the new places recognise the challenges this brings by helping more than 40 additional people to access transition care every year,' Minister Colbeck said.
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AMA's latest public hospital report card reveals hospitals need help now
Australian Medical Association (AMA) President, Dr Omar Khorshid, said that the AMA's Public Hospital Report Card 2021 shows that even during the 2020 lockdowns, hospitals were still overwhelmed - with backsliding or barely improved performance, even with dramatically reduced patient volumes. 'What's remarkable about this year's report card is it shows hospitals continued to struggle in 2020 when Australians stayed home, and we weren't dealing with the highly contagious Delta variant or high COVID-19 hospitalisations,' Dr Khorshid said.
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TAS: Hospital beds in Tasmania increasing, while surgery waitlist goes down
Tasmanian Minister for Health Jeremy Rockliff said that since April 2018, the number of available hospital beds in Tasmania's public system has increased from 1,360 to 1,583 as at the end of June 2021 - an increase of 223 beds, or 16.4 per cent. A national report recently released by the AMA pointed to declining beds numbers, which is not the case in Tasmania. The Tasmanian Liberal Government has continued to invest heavily to increase the number of beds available to manage increasing demand for healthcare.
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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
11 November
VIC: New mental health lived experience leadership
The Government has appointed its first Executive Director of Lived Experience to help build Victoria's new mental health and wellbeing system, ensuring those with experience of the mental health system are at the centre of its reform. Mary O'Hagan, an internationally recognised lived experience executive and advocate will take on the leadership role after dedicating her passion and expertise to the lived experience movement for more than 35 years. She is also a former Mental Health Commissioner of New Zealand, where she advocated as a strong voice for change, said Victorian Minister for Mental Health James Merlino.
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WA: Perinatal Mental Health Week shines a spotlight on supports for parents
This Perinatal Mental Health Week, the theme for 2021 is 'Breaking Down Barriers'. Ensuring both parents and infants are equipped with the right mental health skills is essential for establishing optimal mental health for later life. Supporting the early development of positive mental health behaviours is a vitally important part of the WA Government's commitment to supporting Western Australians, which includes recognising the individual needs of the regions, said WA Minister for Mental Health Stephen Dawson.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
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Pharmaceuticals and Regulation
11 November
Prescription medicines: Registration of new generic medicines and biosimilar medicines
Throughout the year, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will be publishing information on new generic and biosimilar prescription medicines as they are approved. Please note that the sponsor name reflects the information in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) at the time of registration. As sponsors may change over time, consult the ARTG for full information in relation to these products, including full indications.
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Information for medical practitioners on pending up-classification of surgical mesh devices
On 29 October 2021 amendments to the Therapeutic Goods (Medical Device) Regulations 2002 came into effect allowing greater flexibility to the current transitional arrangements for devices that are surgical mesh (other than urogynaecological mesh). Under these changes, a sponsor will be able to access transitional arrangements if they have submitted an application for TGA conformity assessment certificate before 1 December 2021 and are no longer required to have previously notified the TGA.
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Prescription medicines: New or extended uses, or new combinations of registered medicines
Over time, the approved therapeutic uses of prescription medicines registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) can change. Changes commonly include 'new uses' or 'extended uses'. A new use is where an already registered medicine is approved for an additional therapeutic use. An extended use is where an already registered medicine is approved to treat a broader range of patients, e.g. a wider age range. New or extended uses are called 'extensions of indications'. By contrast, a 'new combination' is where two or more already registered medicines are combined into a single product, said the TGA.
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9 November
Nitrosamine impurities
The Department of Health said that Nitrosamines are a group of compounds that can damage DNA. They are commonly found in low levels in a variety of foods, including smoked and cured meats, dairy products, vegetables, in some drinking water and in air pollution. Long-term exposure to nitrosamines, over years, can increase an individual's risk of developing cancer. However, the risk posed by nitrosamine impurities found in some medicines, at the concentrations identified to date, is considered to be very low.
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5 November
Outcome Statement 30 September - 1 October 2021
The Department of Health said that Drug Utilisation Sub-Committee (DUSC) of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) held its 103rd meeting on the 30 September - 1 October 2021. DUSC has a national focus of excellence in collecting, analysing and interpreting data on the utilisation of medicines in Australia for use by the PBAC. Review of the utilisation of medicines is an essential management tool in facilitating the objectives of the National Medicines Policy. The PBAC is also committed to understanding consumer perspectives and integrating them into consideration of medicines and vaccines. Consumers are able to provide their views about medicine utilisation reviews to the PBAC via a web interface.
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Medical devices reforms: Personalised medical devices
A new framework has been introduced to ensure an appropriate level of regulation is applied to Personalised Medical Devices to manage the risk these devices may pose. Prior to 25 February 2021, most personalised medical devices (PMD) met the definition of 'custom- made' and were exempt from the requirement to be approved by the TGA and included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) before they could be imported, exported or supplied (though they were subject to other regulatory obligations). Following extensive consultation and liaison with other global regulators, the TGA developed a new regulatory framework for PMD.
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Independent Expert Panel on MDMA and psilocybin
TGA Scheduling Delegate (decision maker) has deferred the final decision on applications to down-schedule MDMA and psilocybin from schedule 9 (prohibited drug) to schedule 8 (controlled drug) pending a review into the therapeutic value, risks and benefits to public health outcomes for these substances. On 5 August 2021, the TGA announced that an Independent Expert Panel had been established to undertake the review. The review has now been completed and the Panel's report is published below.
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Supply and wholesaling of medicinal cannabis products (MCP)
The importation, manufacture and supply of finished medicinal cannabis products, that have not been assessed by the TGA as part of a medicine registration process are unapproved goods. As such there is tight regulation in order to manage the risks of unlawful supply, and to ensure any necessary public health alerts and recalls can be managed appropriately. To that end, the 'direct control' requirement in the Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990 is in place to ensure that the sponsor remains responsible for product control and supply decisions throughout the supply chain.
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RV Global Ecommerce Pty Ltd fined $39,960 for alleged unlawful advertising of nicotine vaping products
TGA has issued three infringement notices totalling $39,960 to Sydney-based company RV Global Ecommerce Pty Ltd (RV Global) for alleged unlawful advertising of nicotine vaping products. RV Global allegedly advertised, on its website, disposable nicotine vaping products that contain a Schedule 4 prescription only substance included in the Poisons Standard. Under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (the Act), vaping products that contain nicotine are prescription only medicines and cannot be advertised to the Australian public. The TGA provided RV Global with detailed guidance about the legal requirements for importers, suppliers and advertisers of nicotine vaping products.
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COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests
TGA progressed work that would allow the provision of self-tests for COVID-19. The timing and introduction of self-testing has been critically dependent on achieving specific higher vaccination rates as outlined in the National Plan to Australia's COVID-19 response. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will make a new regulation (Specification) by 1 October 2021 that will allow companies to formally apply for TGA regulatory approval after 1 October, in order to legally supply their self-tests for use at home in Australia after 1 November 2021.
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Melbourne-based individual fined $7,992 for alleged unlawful importation of nicotine vaping products
TGA has issued three infringement notices, totalling $7,992, to a Melbourne-based individual for alleged importation breaches involving nicotine vaping products. It is alleged that the individual imported liquid nicotine vaping products that were not entered, into the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) at the time of importation. Under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (the Act), therapeutic goods must be entered into the ARTG, unless a specific exemption, approval or authority applies, before they can be lawfully imported into Australia.
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Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Continued Dispensing Arrangements
The Australian Government has extended the Continued Dispensing emergency arrangements until 30 June 2022, when they will be replaced by expanded ongoing continued dispensing arrangements. The extension will help people affected by COVID-19 to receive their usual Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Repatriation PBS medicines from a community pharmacy without a script. The temporary emergency continued dispensing arrangements assists people with a variety of ongoing medical conditions, including asthma, lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, and mental illness.
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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Utilisation analysis
To review the utilisation of the PBS and Repatriation PBS (R/PBS) listed medicines used in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This includes a predicted versus actual analysis of guanfacine in the first 24 months of R/PBS listing. Guanfacine was first R/PBS-listed for this indication on 1 September 2018. Subsidy of lisdexamfetamine, atomoxetine and the two modified-release forms of methylphenidate (Ritalin LA and Concerta) is limited to patients diagnosed between the ages of 6 and 18 years of age inclusive.
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Research
8 November
Caring for COVID-19 in the community: devil in the details
Medical Journal of Australia (MJA) said that Minister for Health Greg Hunt's 'really simple proposition' to have GPs and other primary care practitioners treat patients with COVID-19 in the community rather than in hospital is proving to be anything but simple, as GPs, Colleges and medico-legal experts grapple with the scant details on offer. Dr Karen Price, President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, told InSight+ that the all-important details of how community care of COVID-19 will look would come down to a hyperlocal approach. 'Each GP and practice manager is going to have to work out how this is going to work for their particular practice,' Dr Price said.
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5 November
NHMRC awards Ideas Grants to 10 Garvan researchers
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) awarded Ideas Grants to 10 researchers at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, to support their pioneering work in cancer, vaccine development, diabetes, and sarcopenia. The Ideas Grant scheme is a competitive, peer-reviewed grants system that provides up to four years of funding. Garvan Executive Director Professor Chris Goodnow congratulates the scientists whose applications were successful: 'This is a fantastic outcome for Garvan and the researchers who received funding from the NHMRC.'
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Rural, Regional and Remote Health
11 November
WA: Expanded Telestroke service provides lifesaving care
More than 30 stroke patients across Western Australia have been provided with life-saving care through specialist stroke consultant advice in phase one of a $9.7 million expansion of the Statewide Telestroke Service. The expanded service enables clinicians in rural, remote and outer metropolitan areas to seek expert advice on quick diagnosis and appropriate treatment pathways for their patients from leading stroke experts at the State's tertiary hospitals. This rapid, specialist advice is delivered using digital technology to allow consultants to review medical scans and imaging of remote patients in real-time, which is critical in saving lives and reducing the potential for disability, said WA Minister for Health Roger Cook.
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10 November
NT: Katherine dialysis clinic certainty delivered
Fresenius Medical Care has been awarded a tender to continue to provide dialysis services in the Katherine region for five more years. This extension of services delivers certainty for staff and current patients that the service will continue to operate as normal. Fresenius Medical Care is operated through a public-private partnership with the Territory Government. The 16-chair clinic provides haemodialysis treatment for a total of 30 patients per day, said NT Minister for Health Natasha Fyles.
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Women's Health
8 November
Landmark changes improving access to life saving cervical screenings
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that the Government is ensuring all people eligible for a cervical screening test will be able to collect their own sample from 1 July 2022, offering women more control and choice. Currently, self-collection is only available to women aged 30 years or over, who have never screened, or are two or more years overdue. From 1 July, Australia will be one of the first countries in the world to offer the 'game-changing' self-collect option through the National Cervical Screening Program.
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Transcripts
Minister for Health Greg Hunt
11 NOV: Transcript of Press Conference, Melbourne
Subjects: COVID-19 vaccine update, Vaccine for five to 11 year olds, Remembrance day, Vaccination rates, Pfizer, Moderna, Booster shots, TGA authorisation, Remote communities
Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney
11 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Kelly Gudgeon, ABC Pilbara Breakfast
Catchwords: Indigenous vaccination gap, Vaccine rollout, Vaccination rates, Vaccine hesitancy, Vulnerable communities
Prime Minister Scott Morrison
10 NOV: Speech to the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, South Wharf
Subjects: Small & medium businesses, Vaccinations, Unemployment rate, Climate change, Emissions reduction, Energy, Electric vehicles, Innovation
Shadow Minister for Health Mark Butler
10 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Rob 'Fairsy' Fairs, Tasmania Talks
Subjects: Aged care, Regional health care, Hospital system modelling, Australian health system, Hospital capacities
Member for Canberra Alicia Payne
09 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Stephen Cenatiempo, 2CC Breakfast
Subjects: The Greens, Extinction rebellion, Hospital funding, Pacific Islands nations, Climate support, Community grants, Upcoming election, Hospital performance
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
08 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Brian Carlton, Triple M
Subjects: Business insolvency data, Economic recovery, COVID-19, Public health, Election campaign, Consumer confidence, Pandemic
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
08 NOV: Transcript of Interview with David Koch and Natalie Barr, Sunrise
Subjects: Reopening of NSW and WA, Business insolvencies, COVID-19, Public health, Border closures, Pandemic, Vaccination rates, Airline tickets, Economy
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
08 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Ben Fordham, 2GB
Subjects: COVID-19, Pandemic, Vaccination, WA Premier, Border closures, Economic recovery, Business insolvencies, Supply chain issues
Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne
08 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Jim Wilson, 2GB Drive
Subjects: Biloela Tamil family, G7 summit, Vaccine rollout, Tokyo Olympics, Operation Ironside, Australian Federal Police, Organised crime
Minister for Health Greg Hunt
08 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Ross Stevenson and Russel Howcroft, 3AW Breakfast
Subjects: Pfizer COVID booster shot, GP and clinics, Medicare, AstraZenecas, Pfizer, Vaccination rate
Department of Health
08 NOV: Opinion Piece by Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly - 'Australians should embrace reopening - with confidence'
Subjects: COVID-19, Vaccination rate, Mental health
Senator for New South Wales Tim Ayres
08 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Monte Irvine, 2NZ Inverell
Subjects: COVID-19, Public health, Vaccination rates, Outbreak in Inverell, Australia's relationship with France, NSW, White Rock Wind and Solar facility, New England
Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness Jason Clare
08 NOV: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Blacktown
Subjects: COVID-19, Prevention of violence against women and children, Housing Australia Future Fund, NBN, Climate change, Environment
Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Murray Watt
08 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Matt Webber, ABC Gold Coast
Subjects: Prime Minister, Trust in politics, Unused $4.7 billion Emergency Response Fund, Queensland vaccination rates
Shadow Minister for Health Mark Butler
08 NOV: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Morayfield
Subjects: Morayfield Health Hub, COVID vaccine boosters, Vaccination rates, Public health, COVID vaccines for children, GP, Medicare funding
Department Health
07 NOV: Transcript of Press Conference with Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sonya Bennett
Subjects: COVID, Two dose vaccination rate, Elderly, Vaccine hesitancy, TGA, ATAGI, Pharmacy, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna
Australian Medical Association (AMA)
05 NOV: Transcript of President, Dr Omar Khorshid's Interview with Sally Sara, RN Breakfast, ABC Radio National
Subjects: AMA Public Hospital Report Card 2021, Public hospital performance, COVID-19 boosters
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese
05 NOV: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Avoca Beach, NSW Central Coast
Subjects: PEP 11, Hospital funding, Public health care system, Net zero emissions, Glasgow summit, Climate change, AUKUS announcement, Foreign affairs
Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness Jason Clare
05 NOV: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Gillieston Heights
Subjects: Housing crisis in the Hunter, Medicare, Financial services, Increased housing prices, Property market, Real estate growth
Shadow Minister for Health Mark Butler
05 NOV: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Burnie
Subjects: GP shortages, Regional health care, Hospital system modelling, Public health system, National Cabinet,
Shadow Minister for Health Mark Butler
05 NOV: Transcript of Interview with Leon Compton, ABC Tasmania
Subjects: Hospital system modelling, Public health system, Tasmanian Labor Party, Submarines, Australia-France relationship, Foreign affairs
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Reports
Reclassification of medical devices that are substances introduced into the human body via a body orifice or applied to the skin
Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
This guidance aims to assist sponsors of medical devices that are substances for introduction into the body with meeting their obligations and outlines transitional arrangements to help comply with new regulations. From 25 November 2021, medical devices that are substances for introduction into the body will be required to meet regulatory requirements demonstrating the safety and performance for Class IIa (low-medium risk), Class IIb (medium-high risk) or Class III (high risk) devices.
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Software for use with COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests
Department of Health
The purpose of this document is to provide manufacturers and sponsors with guidance on the Therapeutic Goods Administration's expectations concerning software or apps for use with COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests that are intended to analyse and enable the interpretation of the test result. This document does not deal with any requirements for software systems to identify, or confirm the identity, of individuals taking tests, transmission of patient records or reporting of results to public health authorities.
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Inquiry under Part 14 of the Health Services Act 2016 (WA)
Australian Commission On Safety & Quality in Health Care
On Saturday 3 April 2021, at 1733 hrs a 7-year-old girl with a short history of illness, Aishwarya Aswath, was brought to the Emergency Department (ED) at Perth Children's Hospital (PCH) by her parents, Aswath Chavittupara and Prasitha Sasidharan. Aishwarya's care, her extremely rapid deterioration in the ED and her tragic death has resulted in immense loss, anguish and pain suffered by the fam
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Submission to Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment (Royal Commission Response No. 2) Bill 2021
Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF)
Schedule 5 of the Bill amends the Aged Care Act and the Quality and Safety Commission Act to improve the governance of approved providers of Commonwealth-funded aged care. Schedule 5 of the Bill aligns with Recommendations 88 to 90 of the Royal Commission, which noted the importance of good provider governance arrangements to the provision of high-quality care for consumers. The ANMF strongly agrees that the aged care sector must have legislated requirements to demonstrate quality clinical governance through effective clinical leadership and expertise at all levels.
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Submission to the National Medicines Policy Review
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA)
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) provides its views through this submission to the National Medicines Policy (NMP) Review Committee to support a refresh of the NMP as a high level policy framework with the primary aim of future-proofing the policy. Appendix 1 of this submission includes PSA's views on specific healthcare activities and programs which are underpinned by current NMP principles and objectives, and are relevant to pharmacists' practice. These are intended to provide context of the interpretation and implementation of the current NMP.
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Submission to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee - Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety Recommendation 65
Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA)
If the Recommendation is enacted specific strategies to mitigate inequitable access to psychiatric and geriatric services and other rural Residential Aged Care (RAC) issues will be required as a matter of urgency, with evidence of how rural patient care will be delivered to support positive patient outcomes and access. Strategies will need to take into account the specific context and workforce availability in rural areas, and provide improved timeliness and access. Given the current recommendations, it is unclear whether an implementation plan has been developed.
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Monitoring perpetrator interventions in Australia
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
This report presents a conceptual overview of the outcome monitoring activities currently being undertaken across states and territories, and does not include data. It highlights similarities and differences in outcome monitoring approaches and informs government understanding of potential data improvements in this area that could be considered in future.
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Mesothelioma in Australia 2019
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
Australia has one of the highest measured incidence rates of mesothelioma in the world. Each year in Australia, between 700 and 800 people are diagnosed with the rare and aggressive cancer. In the 2018-19 financial year, the estimated health system expenditure for mesothelioma cases was $27.4m (total cancers $11.8 billion). Men were more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than women across all age groups, and the number of cases diagnosed each year for both men and women has steadily increased over the past 40 years. There is no cure for mesothelioma.
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Mental Health Discrimination in Insurance
Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC)
This report outlines the progress that has been made in the areas of travel insurance and life insurance, as well as the remaining challenges, to provide an up-to-date overview of issues of mental health discrimination in insurance and options for reform. The report outlines some of the barriers and discrimination faced by those attempting to access and use insurance when they have a mental health condition or a past mental health history, drawing on case data and lived experience of PIAC's clients through case studies from PIAC's work over the past decade.
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Built Environments & Child Health: A Policy Review
University of Melbourne
The policy analysis was conducted to investigate how Western Australian and national policies address the health of children through the built environment's influence on obesity and the modifiable risk factors for obesity, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and diet. A total of 31 Western Australian and ten national built environment-related policy documents (defined as policies, strategic plans, frameworks, and guidelines) were reviewed. The policy documents reviewed mostly referred to the role of the built environment in supporting physical activity. The most referred to built environment factors that may impact childhood obesity were street connectivity, parks, open spaces and recreation facilities, and safety.
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ACT: Culture in the ACT public health system - Second Annual Review
ACT Department of Health
A positive workplace culture is a key driver of organisational success and performance. Over many years, there have been concerns that the public health system in the ACT suffers from a poor workplace culture, including high levels of bullying and other inappropriate workplace behaviour and concerns that the resulting climate posed risks to workforce capability and clinical care. Although these problems are not unique to the ACT health system, the ACT experiences additional pressures that arise from its small size and relative isolation from a broader range of peers and clinical settings, compared to most State health systems.
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TAS: Supporting Tasmanian Carers Tasmanian Carer Action Plan 2021-2024
Department of Communities Tasmania
The Tasmanian Government acknowledges the vital role and significant contribution of unpaid carers to the health, wellbeing and security of their family members and friends who are in need of support and assistance. This Action Plan follows on from, and consolidates, the outcomes achieved through the Tasmanian Carer Action Plan 2017-20 and the Tasmanian Carer Policy 2016. A key action is the introduction of carer recognition legislation.
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Hansards
Federal
11 NOV 2021: SENATE NOTICE PAPER: Questions on Notice - 4371 Senator Kitching: Minister for the National Disability - Does the NDIA have a record keeping policy for decisions and deliberations of delegates or panels such as the SDA panel
11 NOV 2021: SENATE NOTICE PAPER: Questions on Notice - 4361 Senator Keneally: Minister for Home Affairs - With respect to contracts between Dept & International Health & Medical Services for provision of health & services on Nauru, How much did Dept pay
04 NOV 2021: SENATE COMMITTEE HANSARD: Community Affairs References Committee - Provision of health services to outer metropolitan, rural and regional Australians - Canberra
ACT
29 OCT 2021: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Estimates - Inquiry into ACT Budget 2021-22 - Standing Committee on Health and Community Wellbeing - Deputy Chief Minister & Minister for Early Childhood Development - Community Services Directorate
New South Wales
09 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Committees - Portfolio Committee No. 2 - Health - Report and Government Response
09 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Documents - Ageing and Disability Commission - Reports
09 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice: Take Note - Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Support
09 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment Debate - Hunter Region Emergency Services
09 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Adjournment Debate - Palliative Care
09 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Support
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Vaccination Clinic: St Nicholas Parish Marrickville
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Thank You Healthcare Workers
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - 24 Hour Row for Mental Health
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Albury-Wodonga Health
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Wollongong Mass Vaccination Hub
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Mental Health Month
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Question Time - Hunter Health Services
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Documents - Ageing and Disability Commission - Reports
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Veterans Health Week and Fun at Panthers Bowl Club
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Hunter GP Access After Hours Service
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Westmead Hospital Baby and Mother Mental Health Unit
09 NOV 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Notices - Mental Health Month
05 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL ESTIMATES HANSARD: Portfolio Committee No. 2 - Health - Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women
05 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL ESTIMATES HANSARD: Portfolio Committee No. 2 - Health - Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women
04 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL ESTIMATES HANSARD: Portfolio Committee No. 2 - Health - Health and Medical Research
04 NOV 2021: NSW COUNCIL ESTIMATES HANSARD: Portfolio Committee No. 2 - Health - Health and Medical Research
Tasmania
28 OCT 2021: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - St Helens Hospital Site Future Use
28 OCT 2021: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - North Eastern Soldiers Memorial Hospital - James Scott Wing
27 OCT 2021: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - Launceston General Hospital Water Systems
27 OCT 2021: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - COVID-19 - Effect of Reopening Borders on Health Services
26 OCT 2021: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - COVID-19 - Vaccination Numbers for Health Workers
26 OCT 2021: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - COVID-19 - Requirement for Health Workers to be Vaccinated
26 OCT: 2021: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Motion - Consideration and Noting - Parliamentary Standing Committee of Public Accounts Report No. 14 - Office of the Ombudsman and Health Complaints Commissioner
Western Australia
10 NOV 2021: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Perth Children's Hospital - Aishwarya Aswath - Independent Inquiry Report
10 NOV 2021: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Fiona Stanley Hospital - Intensive Care Unit
10 NOV 2021: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Perth Children's Hospital - Aishwarya Aswath
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Mandatory Vaccination Policy
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Psychedelic Substances - PTSD Treatment
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Child Protection - Registered Carers
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - WA Country Health Service - Kimberley - Nurses
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Police - Vaccinations
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Geraldton Health Campus - Staff
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Fiona Stanley Hospital - Cardiology Services
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Motion - Medical Privacy
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - COVID-19 Response Legislation Amendment (Extension of Expiring Provisions) Bill (No. 2) 2021 - Receipt, First Reading, Second Reading, Debate Adjourned
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Vaccinations
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Statement - Epilepsy Awareness Month
10 NOV 2021: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Hospitals - Elective Surgery - Cancellations
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Court Cases
Federal
Nurses First Inc v Monash Health [2021] FCA 1372
05 NOV: Catchwords: Industrial law - Interlocutory injunction
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Transport Workers' Union of Australia v Qantas Airways Limited (No 3) [2021] FCA 1339
01 NOV: Catchwords: Employment law - Further steps to resolve controversy required - Question of remedial response - Reinstatement
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New Regulations
Federal
Australian Medical Research and Innovation Strategy 2021-2026 Determination 2021
Legislative Instrument - F2021L01522
The purpose of the Australian Medical Research and Innovation Strategy 2021-2026 (the 2021-26 Strategy) is to ensure that a coherent and consistent approach is adopted in providing financial assistance under the MRFF. It sets out the vision, aims and objectives for the MRFF.
Explanatory Statement
Health Insurance (General Practice COVID-19 Management Support Service) Amendment (No. 1) Determination 2021
Legislative Instrument - F2021L01521
The purpose of the Health Insurance (General Practice COVID-19 Management Support Service) Amendment (No. 1) Determination 2021 (the Amendment Determination) is to amend the Principal Determination to require the new COVID-19 management support item to be performed in conjunction with a service to which one of the following general practice attendance items applies.
Explanatory Statement
Health Insurance (General Practice COVID-19 Management Support Service) Determination 2021
Legislative Instrument - F2021L01513
The purpose of the Health Insurance (General Practice COVID-19 Management Support Service) Determination 2021 (the Determination) is to list a temporary attendance service for patients who have been recently diagnosed with COVID-19 by a laboratory diagnostic test. Patients diagnosed with a point of care test, such as a rapid antigen test, will not be eligible until they have the result confirmed by a laboratory test.
Explanatory Statement
South Australia
11 NOV 2021: SA, OFFICE OF PARLIAMENTARY COUNSEL OPC: Health Care (Reporting of Cancer) Variation Regulations 2021 - No 168 of 2021
11 NOV 2021: SA, OFFICE OF PARLIAMENTARY COUNSEL OPC: Health Care (Provision of Data and Statistics) Variation Regulations 2021 - No 167 of 2021
11 NOV 2021: SA, OFFICE OF PARLIAMENTARY COUNSEL OPC: Voluntary Assisted Dying Regulations 2021 - No 166 of 2021
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Proclamations
None this edition.
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Gazette Notices
None this edition.
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Consolidated Legislation
National Health (Continued Dispensing - Emergency Measures) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01121
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Continued Dispensing - Emergency Measures) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 10).
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Health Insurance (Section 3C Co-Dependent Pathology Services) Determination 2018
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01120
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Section 3C Co-Dependent Pathology Services) Amendment Determination 2021.
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National Health (Originator Brand) Determination 2015
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01119
PB 100 of 2015 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Originator Brand) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 6).
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Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical - Expansion of GP and Allied Health Chronic Disease Management Services for Care Recipients of a Residential Aged Care Facility) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01115
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Section 3C General Medical Services - Allied Health Case Conference) Determination 2021.
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Health Insurance (Allied Health Services) Determination 2014
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01110
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Section 3C General Medical Services - Allied Health Case Conference) Determination 2021.
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National Health (Listed Drugs on F1 or F2) Determination 2021 Authoritative Version
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01107
PB 33 of 2021 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Listed Drugs on F1 or F2) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 8).
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National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement 2011 Authoritative Version
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01105
PB 79 of 2011 Arrangements as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement Amendment Instrument 2021 (No. 10).
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Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01104
SR 1990 No. 394 Regulations as amended, taking into account amendments up to Therapeutic Goods Legislation Amendment (2021 Measures No. 3) Regulations 2021.
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National Health (Weighted average disclosed price - October 2021 reduction day) Determination 2021
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C01102
PB 72 of 2021 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Weighted average disclosed price - October 2021 reduction day) Amendment Determination 2021.
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National Cancer Screening Register Act 2016
Act Compilation - C2021C00523
Act No. 65 of 2016 as amended, taking into account amendments up to Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Act 2021 An Act to establish and provide for a cancer screening register, and for related purposes.
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New Bills
ACT
A Bill for An Act to amend the Public Health Act 1997, and for other purposes
The Bill creates a new temporary offence in section 120B (1). It is an offence to fail to comply with a direction that has been given under section 120 while a COVID-19 declaration is in force. Similar to the existing offence in section 120 (4), a maximum penalty of 50 penalty units applies.
The Bill clarifies that strict liability applies in relation to the first element - that a COVID-19 direction is in force. Applying strict liability means that the prosecution will not be required to establish a fault element in relation to the existence of the direction. As a safeguard to the application of strict liability, the amendments include a requirement that a COVID-19 direction that is not given to a particular person is a notifiable instrument. This formalises the current practice of notifying directions on the ACT Legislation Register. The Bill also introduces a requirement that, before requiring a person to comply with a COVID-19 direction, an authorised officer must, if reasonably practicable, warn a person that failure to comply with a direction without reasonable excuse is an offence. A failure to comply with this requirement does not affect the liability of the person and it is not a condition precedent for an authorised officer taking enforcement action.
For the second element, the prosecution will be required to prove that the person engaged in the conduct amounting to a failure to comply with a direction. The offence impliedly provides that the offence is committed by an omission to do an act and as a result, intention is the fault element that must be proved under the Criminal Code 2002.
Section 120B (3) provides that it is a defence if a person has a reasonable excuse for failing to comply with the direction, replicating the defence available under section 120 (4). The Bill clarifies that the defendant has the evidential burden in relation to the defence. The defendant must present or point to evidence that suggests a reasonable possibility that the defence can be established. The prosecution must then refute the defence beyond reasonable doubt. Whether an explanation for failing to comply with a direction is a reasonable excuse will depend on the individual circumstances of each case assessed against an objective test of reasonableness. For example, failing to comply with a face mask direction due to mere forgetfulness may not be a reasonable excuse but failing to comply with a face mask direction due to a cognitive impairment or disability is considered to be a reasonable excuse.
The Bill also creates an exception to section 187 (1) of the Crimes Act 1900 (ACT) which applies the provisions in Part 1C of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cwlth) to ACT offences not punishable by imprisonment or punishable by imprisonment for 12 months or less. Part 1C sets out powers of detention and obligations of police officers during investigations. The exception applies only where:
- a police officer believes a person who is 18 or older has committed an offence against section 120B (1);
- the officer intends to serve an infringement notice or take no further action;
- the officer is questioning the person if they have a reasonable excuse for failing to comply with the direction; and
- before questioning, the officer warns the person that they do not have to answer the question or do anything but that anything they say or do may be used in evidence.
The Bill amends the Magistrates Court (Public Health (COVID-19) Infringement Notices) Regulation 2020 (the Regulation) to replace the references to the offence in section 120 (4) of the Act with references to the new offence in section 120B (1). As a result, authorised officers will be able to issue infringement notices to persons over the age of 18 years (and over the age of 16 years in relation to a face mask direction) for the offence of failing to comply with a COVID-19 direction. The Regulation was always intended to apply only in relation to a failure to comply with directions made during a COVID-19 emergency rather than more generally and is due to sunset at the end of a 12-month period during which no COVID-19 emergency has been in force.
Intro 10/11/21, 2R TBA, Passed TBA
Notified TBA, Act No. TBA
Commencement: This Act commences on the day after its notification day.
New South Wales
A Bill for An Act to amend the Crimes Act 1900 to create new offences in relation to causing the loss of a foetus of a pregnant woman; and to make consequential amendments to other Acts.
The object of this Bill is to amend the following-
- the Crimes Act 1900, to create offences in relation to causing the loss of a foetus of a pregnant woman,
- the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, to extend provisions relating to the preparation and consideration of victim impact statements to include statements prepared by an immediate family member of the primary victim of an offence relating to the loss of the primary victim's foetus about the impact of that loss,
- the Criminal Procedure Act 1986, to provide that stating the name of a foetus does not affect an indictment for an offence under the Crimes Act 1900 relating to the destruction or loss of the foetus,
- the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, to provide for the payment of statutory benefits for reasonable funeral expenses following the loss of a foetus of a pregnant woman that results from a motor accident.
LA: Notice of Motion 09/11/21
LA: 1R 10/11/21, 2R 10/11/21, Passed TBA
LC: 1R TBA, 2R TBA, Passed TBA
Assent TBA, Act No. TBA
Commencement: This Act commences on a day or days appointed by proclamation.
A Bill for An Act to amend the Crimes Act 1900 in relation to consent to certain sexual activities that, in the absence of consent, are sexual offences; to amend the Criminal Procedure Act 1986 in relation to directions to juries; and for other purposes.
The objects of this Bill are as follows-
- to recognise that-
(i) every person has a right to choose whether to participate in a sexual activity, and
(ii) consent to a sexual activity must not be presumed, and
(iii) consensual sexual activity involves ongoing and mutual communication, decision-making and free and voluntary agreement between the persons participating in the sexual activity,
- to update the language of provisions of the Crimes Act 1900 relating to sexual offences,
- to allow, and in some circumstances require, judges to make directions to juries about consent in trials relating to certain sexual offences under the Crimes Act 1900.
LA: Notice of Motion 20/10/21
LA: 1R 20/10/21, 2R 09/11/21, 10/11/21, Passed 10/11/21
LC: 1R 10/11/21, 2R TBA, Passed TBA
Assent TBA, Act No. TBA
Commencement: This Act commences on a day or days to be appointed by proclamation
Tasmania
A Bill for An Act to repeal the Alcohol and Drug Dependency Act 1968 and to amend certain Acts, and rescind or revoke certain legislative instruments, consequent on that repeal.
The purpose of this Bill is to repeal legislation that is out of date and unnecessary.
This Bill repeals the Alcohol and Drug Dependency Act 1968 (the ADDA) and subordinate regulations and orders. It also makes minor consequential amendments to definitions in the Community Protection (Offender Reporting) Act 2005, the Poisons Act 1971, and the Road Safety (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1970.
In its current form, the ADDA provides for the admission and detention of persons to a treatment centre; establishes a tribunal with limited review powers; and allows for the designation of treatment centres and appointment of superintendents and welfare officers.
The ADDA's use has been in steady decline and it has not been used at all since early 2016. The Tribunal has received only two applications in the last 18 years, with the last being received in 2009.
LA: Intro 01/09/21, 2R 12/10/21, Passed 12/10/21
LC: Intro 15/10/21, 2R 28/10/21, 09/11/21, Passed with amendments 10/11/21
LA:
Assent TBA, Act No. TBA
Commencement: This Act commences on a day to be proclaimed.
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