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)
31 May
ACT: AIS Arena mass vaccination clinic closes
The AIS Arena COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Clinic will close after helping to make Canberra one of the most vaccinated cities in the world. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said he is proud of the clinical and operational staff who played a pivotal role in the ACT Government's response to the pandemic. 'Thanks also to the Canberra community who rolled up their sleeves in record numbers to get vaccinated,' Chief Minister Barr said. 'This has been an incredible team effort in our fight against COVID-19.'
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NT: NT COVID-19 update
There were 265 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the Northern Territory by NT Health in the 24 hours to 8pm on 30 May 2022. Of these, 253 were positive cases from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). There were 152 cases recorded in the Top End region, 56 in Central Australia, eight in East Arnhem, 15 in the Big Rivers region, three in the Barkly region and 31 are under investigation. There are currently 15 patients in hospital. There are two patients requiring oxygen and one patient in ICU. The number of active cases in the NT is 1,636.
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WA: COVID-19 update 31 May 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 8,201 new cases to 8pm May 30th. There are currently 54,353 active cases in Western Australia. To 8pm May 30th, there were 318 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 10 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes four deaths, dating back to the 23 May which were reported to WA Health : a woman over 100, and three women in their 90s. Due to confidentiality requirements, no further information on these cases will be released by the Department.
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30 May
Guidance for injuries caused by vaccine administration - COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme
This document sets out points to consider for doctors providing clinical opinion in support of COVID-19 vaccine injury claims following vaccination with a TGA approved vaccine. The COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme (the Scheme) comprises three tiers. Tier 1 covers low level claims under $20,000; Tier 2 covers claims above $20,000; and Tier 3 covers claims in relation to harm that caused, or materially contributed to, the death of a COVID-19 Vaccine Recipient. The approach to the Department of Health assessment and the type of evidence that would be expected in support of a Tier 2 or Tier 3 claim is covered below for each claimable condition.
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NSW: NSW Free flu shots for all in June
A free flu jab will be available to all NSW residents in a month-long blitz from June 1 in an effort to combat this year's expected severe influenza season. With a sharp increase in flu cases already, the NSW Government will fund flu vaccinations at GPs and pharmacies until June 30. NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said there were 1,140 cases of respiratory illness notified this week, compared with 766 in the previous week and 150 presentations and admissions to hospitals.
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NT: COVID-19 update
There were 201 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the Northern Territory by NT Health in the 24 hours to 8pm on29 May 2022. Of these, 183 were positive cases from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). There were 129 cases recorded in the Top End region, 40 in Central Australia, five in East Arnhem, eight in the Big Rivers region, four in the Barkly region and 15 are under investigation. There are currently 11 patients in hospital. There are two patients requiring oxygen and no patients in ICU. The number of active cases in the NT is 1,640.
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QLD: Vaccination requirements eased for hospital visitors
Queenslanders who have not been vaccinated can visit QLD public and private hospitals. QLD Minister for Health Yvette D'Ath said the further easing of restrictions was possible because of Queensland's strong health response. 'As Queensland moves to living with COVID, we can now take the next step in easing restrictions,' the Minister said. 'The acting Chief Health Officer has advised that the vaccination mandate for hospital visitors is no longer necessary to respond to the spread of COVID-19. The limit on visitors will also be removed, however hospitals will continue to manage visitor numbers locally. The requirement to collect contact information for all visitors has also been eased.'
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TAS: COVID-19 update: Extension of Public Health Emergency Declaration
What you need to know
• The current Public Health Emergency Direction has been extended to 30 June 2022
• Current settings for disability services remain the same
•Tasmania Health has indicated that this is anticipated to be the last extension to the Public Health Emergency Declaration with businesses expected to embed COVID safety planning and behaviours as business-as-usual risk management.
The TAS Director of Public Health, Dr Mark Veitch, has extended the current Public Health Emergency Declaration for Tasmania until 30 June 2022.
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TAS: TAS Coronavirus Update
Tasmania has recorded 627 new cases, with 836 people recovered and released from isolation in that time, according to TAS Health. The total number of active cases currently stands at 4,819 and Tasmania now has more than 158,000 Tasmanians who have recovered from COVID-19. There are currently 46 people in hospital with COVID and of these, 21 are being treated specifically for COVID. There is currently one person being cared for in the ICU. Sadly, TAS Health can confirm that a man in his 90s has passed away in the State's North West and, at the weekend, a woman in her 70s passed away in the State's North.
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WA: WA COVID-19 update
WA Health is reporting a total of 6,649 new cases to 8pm May 29th. There are currently 58,685 active cases in Western Australia. To 8pm May 29th, there were 317 people with COVID19 in hospital, 10 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes four deaths, dating back to the 17 May which were reported to WA Health: a man in his 60s, a man and woman in their 70s and a woman in her 90s. Due to confidentiality requirements, no further information on these cases will be released by the Department.
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29 May
NT: NT COVID-19 update
There were 175 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the Northern Territory in the 24 hours to 8pm on28 May 2022 by NT Health. Of these, 141 were positive cases from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). There were 94 cases recorded in the Top End region, 27 in Central Australia, four in East Arnhem, 12 in the Big Rivers region, two in the Barkly region and 36 are under investigation. There are currently 21 patients in hospital. There are four patients requiring oxygen and no patients in ICU. The number of active cases in the NT is 1,605.
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QLD: Next chapter of community forums in Far North Queensland
Ministers and MPs will meet with a group of committed Far North Queensland locals in Cairns, as part of a new round of Regional Community Forums. QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said new membership for the forums in 2022 would continue the diversity of experience, ideas and interests in regional Queensland. 'Listening to communities is the hallmark of good government, and we work best when we work together,' the Premier said. 'Since 2019, our Regional Community Forums have helped to strengthen partnerships in rural and regional areas, collaborating on local solutions and local innovations for local issues.
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SA: SA COVID-19 Update 29 May 2022
There have been 2,312 new cases of COVID-19 reported in South Australia by SA Health. There are currently 21,287 active cases in South Australia. There are 217 people with COVID-19 in hospital, including nine people in ICU. Of those hospitalised, 102 people have received three or more vaccine doses and 93 people are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated and 22 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: 'Free Jab June' for Western Australians in influenza vaccination blitz
Free influenza vaccines will be made available for all Western Australians during June, with the WA Government announcing a flu jab blitz ahead of the worst of the winter flu season, said WA Minister for Health Amber-Jade Sanderson. The Government has announced it has worked with pharmacies at GPs to expand subsidised vaccinations to every Western Australian during June, as an extra incentive for people to arm themselves against the flu. 'Free Jab June' will start on June 1, 2022 and run until June 30, 2022.
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28 May
Fallout of COVID-19 on children's education not over yet
A national survey of more than 1,100 parents and carers whose children are supported by The Smith Family, has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to deeply impact children's education, due to ongoing disruptions to 'normal' schooling, the after-effects of home learning and other urgent issues faced by families in need. One caregiver surveyed said, “Last year [my child’s] grades dropped significantly - a
combination of lack of learning support materials and difficulties in attempting to home
school.”
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NT: NT COVID-19 update
There were 188 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the Northern Territory in the 24 hours to 8pm on27 May 2022 by NT Health. Of these, 148 were positive cases from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). There were 117 cases recorded in the Top End region, 35 in Central Australia, nine East Arnhem, five in the Big Rivers region, two in the Barkly region and 20 are under investigation. There are currently 16 patients in hospital. There are two patients requiring oxygen and no patients in ICU. The number of active cases in the NT is 1,614.
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SA: SA COVID-19 Update 28 May 2022
There have been 2,633 new cases of COVID-19 reported in South Australia by SA Health. There are currently 21,686 active cases in South Australia. There are 207 people with COVID-19 in hospital, including 10 people in ICU. Of those hospitalised, 98 people have received three or more vaccine doses and 91 people are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated and 18 have an unknown vaccination status. Due to a reconfiguration of the data, the total number of cases has been readjusted.
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27 May
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccination provide important protection this winter
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, said the Department of Health. Over the past two years influenza cases were very low in Australia because of limitations on international travel and a range of other measures such as social distancing and mask wearing, but with restrictions now eased, influenza cases are rising. Whilst this rapid rise in case appears to be occurring earlier than an average influenza season, the timing of the peak and size of the influenza season is difficult to predict. Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications. It is recommended for all people aged 6 months and over (unless contraindicated).
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Guidance for injuries caused by vaccine administration - COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme
This document from the Department of Health sets out points to consider for doctors providing clinical opinion in support of COVID-19 vaccine injury claims following vaccination with a TGA approved vaccine. The COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme (the Scheme) comprises three tiers. Tier 1 covers low level claims under $20,000; Tier 2 covers claims above $20,000; and Tier 3 covers claims in relation to harm that caused, or materially contributed to, the death of a COVID-19 Vaccine Recipient. The approach to the Department of Health assessment and the type of evidence that would be expected in support of a Tier 2 or Tier 3 claim is covered below for each claimable condition.
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ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting
On Wednesday 25 May 2022, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) met to consider the latest developments relating to COVID-19 immunisation. As of 23 May 2022, over 58 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Australia. Following a thorough examination of local and international evidence on the use of COVID-19 vaccines, booster doses and epidemiology, ATAGI have recommended the COVID-19 booster rollout program be expanded. A winter booster dose is now recommended for people aged 16-64 years who have:
- a medical condition that increases their risk of severe COVID-19 illness; and
- a disability with significant or complex health needs or multiple comorbidities which increase the risk of poor outcomes from COVID-19.
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Aged Care
01 June
National Seniors welcomes new Aged Care Ministers.
National Seniors Australia welcomes new Ministers, Mark Butler, Anika Wells and Ged Kearney to their respective health and aged care portfolios, noting a wealth of experience and youthful energy to the roles. National Seniors Chief Advocate, Ian Henschke said appointing Mark Butler as Health and Aged Care Minister is most welcome, given he held the role in a previous opposition government and was the shadow minister for Health and Aged Care in the last parliament. 'National Seniors is looking forward to continuing our relationships with Mark Butler and Ged Kearney which are well established,' Ian Henschke said.
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13 May
Australians show overwhelming support for palliative care access in aged care
Australians are firmly in favour of aged care residents having appropriate access to palliative care, with the majority also supporting aged care workers having the skills required to deliver the care, new national survey data reveals. With over one-third of all deaths in Australia occurring in residential aged care facilities and the demand for palliative care rising rapidly, Palliative Care Australia (PCA) CEO Camilla Rowland said governments must invest adequately in palliative care and plan for Australia's future ageing population, or the community will suffer the consequences.
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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
02 June
Welcomes Mark Butler as the Minister for Health and Aged Care
NPS MedicineWise welcomes Mark Butler's appointment as the new Minister for Health and Aged Care. The new expanded health ministry of the Government demonstrates its commitment to addressing the challenges facing the healthcare and aged care sectors. NPS MedicineWise CEO Katherine Burchfield said the organisation shares the Government's commitment to improving access and equity. 'Healthcare and aged care should be there for all Australians, especially the vulnerable, giving support where the need is greatest. 'Supporting people with poor mental health, older Australians and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians are focuses of current NPS MedicineWise quality use of medicines (QUM) programs,' she adds.
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NSW: Public health alert - Monkeypox
NSW Health has identified a new case of monkeypox in a NSW resident who recently returned from Queensland. A man in his 50s developed a mild illness several days after arriving back in Sydney. He subsequently presented to his GP and then hospital with symptoms clinically compatible with monkeypox. Urgent testing is consistent with monkeypox, the second case in NSW. The man is currently being cared for in hospital. He lives alone and investigations to date have identified no high-risk contacts in NSW who are required to isolate. Several people who had other lower level contact with the case are being contacted to advise to monitor for symptoms.
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01 June
AHHA welcomes Mark Butler as new Minister for Health and Ageing
The Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) welcomes the appointment of Mark Butler as Minister for Health and Aged Care and Ged Kearney MP as assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care. The AHHA shares their ongoing commitment to healthcare reform and wishes them the best in their new roles. The AHHA also welcomes Linda Burney as Minister for Indigenous Australians and Emma McBride MP as Assistant Minister for Mental Health, and Rural and Regional Health.
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Consumers Health Forum welcomes the new Minster for Health and calls for more action on Primary Health Care
Consumers Health Forum (CHF), the national peak body for the consumer voice in health care, welcomes Mark Butler MP to his position as Minister for Health and Aging in the new cabinet. The CHF CEO, Ms Leanne Wells said that the organisation and members are looking forward working collaboratively on health care initiatives under the new government. 'It is a time for action on health reform, primary care, alternatives to hospital care and prevention,' said Ms Wells.
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Dementia Australia welcomes new Federal Ministry
Dementia Australia welcomes the announcement of the new Federal Ministry, including the appointment of Mark Butler MP as Minister for Health and Aged Care; Amanda Rishworth MP as Minister for Social Services; Bill Shorten MP as Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme; Anika Wells MP as Minister for Aged Care; and Ged Kearney MP as Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care. Dementia Australia CEO, Maree McCabe AM said she is looking forward to working with Minister Butler, Minister Wells and other key Ministers to ensure quality dementia care is top of the agenda for Federal Cabinet in the 47th parliament.
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Incoming Cabinet has a mandate for major public health improvements
The incoming Cabinet has a mandate for major public health improvements, the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) said. The PHAA welcomes the appointments of Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney, Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy as Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians and the Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health, and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Rural and Regional Health Emma McBride. The new ministry, is a chance to enact policies and fulfill election promises that will improve the health of everyone across the continent.
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31 May
AMA welcomes new Health Minister and calls for urgent solution to hospital crisis
Australian Medical Association (AMA) President Dr Omar Khorshid has welcomed the appointment of new health minister, Mark Butler, and called for upcoming discussions on healthcare to address the growing crisis in Australia's hospital system. Dr Khorshid said Mr Butler had invaluable experience as a former Minister for Ageing and Australia's first Minister for Mental Health in the Gillard Government, and as opposition health spokesman. 'I urge the Minister to grasp this opportunity to start a new relationship with the states and territories on reforming the health system,' Dr Khorshid said.
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World no tobacco day 2022 tobacco - threat to our environment
31 May is World No Tobacco Day. Quit tobacco for your health and the health of our planet. Tobacco kills over 8 million people globally, and over 20,000 people in Australia every year. This year the World Health Organization is highlighting the harmful effect of the tobacco industry on the environment:
- Tobacco destroys our environment, further harming human health, through the cultivation, production, distribution, consumption, and post-consumer waste.
- Tobacco growing, manufacturing and use poison our water, soil, beaches and city streets with chemicals, toxic waste, cigarette butts, including microplastics, and e-cigarette waste.
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New Health Minister can lead generational health reform for all Australians
The new Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, has the perfect opportunity to lead significant health system reform and set the course for world's best health care for future generations. In welcoming Minister Butler's appointment, Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said reviews and reforms already underway will need the Minister's leadership to ensure Australian patients have faster access to the latest innovative medicines, vaccines, and treatments. 'Medicines Australia developed a productive working relationship with Minister Butler during his time as Shadow Health Minister,' Ms de Somer said.
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Medicines Australia welcomes new leaders of the Opposition and National Parties
Medicines Australia congratulates the new leaders of the Opposition Party and the National Party and look forward to working with them and their colleagues on policies to improve timely access to the latest innovative medicines, vaccines, and treatments for all Australians. Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said both Liberal Leader, Peter Dutton, and Deputy Leader, Sussan Ley, have served as Health Minister and have a highly informed knowledge and understanding of the health system, including the medicines and biopharmaceuticals sector.
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Admitted patients
Admitted patients are patients who undergo a public or private hospital's formal admission process to receive treatment and/or care. The types of care provided include surgical care, medical care, intensive care, newborn care, rehabilitation care, palliative care, and mental health care, said the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic had a profound impact on hospital activity generally. The range of social, economic, business and travel restrictions, including restrictions on some hospital services, and associated measures in other healthcare services to support social distancing in Australia resulted in an overall decrease in hospital activity in 2019-20. Many of these restrictions were eased in 2020, leading to an increase in overall hospitalisations in 2020-21.
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QLD: High uptake for free flu jab
Queenslanders have come out in force to get their free flu shot, with vaccination rates increasing by more than 14.7 per cent since the free flu vaccine initiative was announced. QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the uptake was a promising sign of the initiative's success, with other states following Queensland's lead in offering free access to the flu vaccine. 'I am so pleased to see that the free flu vaccination for all Queenslanders is working in the way we hoped,' the Premier said. As influenza cases continue to rise across the state, QLD Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D'Ath said the uptake was the perfect timing.
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VIC: Free flu shots for all Victorians from 1st of June
The Government is making it easier than ever to get an annual flu shot this year by providing free influenza vaccinations for Victorians throughout June, said VIC Minister for Health Martin Foley. Cases of flu in Victoria have increased by more than 30 per cent in the past week alone from 10,000 to 15,000, after two years of COVID-19 and reduced international travel led to limited immunity to the common winter virus. To help make getting the jab as easy as possible, more than 3,000 GP clinics and community pharmacies across Victoria will be invited to offer the free flu vaccinations from this Wednesday the 1st of June as part of a $33 million package.
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27 May
Monkeypox outbreak
The Australian Government is monitoring the multi-country monkeypox virus outbreak, said the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Cases of the virus have been reported in destinations where it normally wouldn't occur. The two confirmed cases in Australia are travellers returning from the United Kingdom and Europe. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports cases in parts of Europe, the USA and Canada. You can find a list of affected destinations on their website. This list is updated regularly. Belgium has announced a 21-day isolation period for infected people and their close contacts. Other destinations may start putting health measures in place. If you're in Australia, contact your relevant state and territory health authorities urgently for advice if you think you've been exposed or have symptoms.
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National agreement on closing the gap vital to making change
This National Reconciliation Week, Australians are challenged to be brave and make change. Members of the Coalition of Peaks have been doing change-making work in and for their communities for more than 50 years. The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) which has a membership of 144 community-controlled health services in every jurisdiction of Australia is one of the key members of the Coalition of Peaks and strongly supports the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. It was a desire to continue driving change that led the Coalition of Peaks to enter a genuine, formal partnership with Australian governments to Close the Gap.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure
31 May
TAS: Broken health system cannot sustain potential flu outbreak
The Government should be acting to ensure as many Tasmanians as possible can access the flu vaccine with June 1st marking the first day of winter and inevitable outbreaks, said Tasmanian Shadow Health Minister Anita Dow. 'Tasmania has remained relatively free of the flu over the past two years but with COVID restrictions largely abolished and people moving freely about the community, it's critical access to the vaccine is made a priority by the Premier and Health Minister,' she said.
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Dental
None this edition.
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Disabilities
31 May
WA: WA State Government making WA parks more accessible for people with disability
WA Premier Mark McGowan said a new $2 million initiative is set to improve disability access in national parks and across Western Australia's conservation estate. Accessible Parks WA is a partnership between the State Government, Nature Play WA and Break the Boundary Inc to develop trails, paths, canoe ramps, boardwalks and activity hubs, as well as improved visitor information on the Explore Parks WA website for people with disability.
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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
01 June
New ministry urged to prioritise the digital transformation of healthcare
Australia must update its 20st century health policies to fuel 21st century innovation, with urgent initiatives required to support Australian industry and the digital transformation of the nation's health sector, including aged care, Indigenous health and disabilities care. Australia's digital health industry peak organisation, the Medical Software Industry Association, congratulates the members of the new Government's first ministry and calls for the new ministers to overhaul unfair government procurement processes and support an industry that has powered the nation's pandemic response.
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Education and Training
None this edition.
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Funding
02 June
SA: Budget starts fixing the ramping crisis
SA Health And Wellbeing Minister Chris Picton and SA Treasurer Stephen Mullighan have announced that the SA Government's first budget begins the process of fixing the ramping crisis, with an additional $2.4 billion invested in health in the biggest investment in health in South Australia's history. A further 228 beds will be available when the upgrade and expansion of the Flinders Medical Centre and construction of the new Mount Barker Hospital are completed. The government continues its commitment to the new Women's and Children's Hospital with $1.5 billion allocated over the next four years. The Government is also reversing some of the previous Government's health cuts, totalling $400 million over five years.
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SA: State Government delivers new and rebuilt ambo stations for hard- working ambos
SA Premier Peter Malinauskas, SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Chris Picton and SA Treasurer Stephen Mullighan have announced that the SA Government will invest $187.2 million in a massive health infrastructure boost to deliver brand new and completely rebuilt ambulance stations to support hard-working ambos to care for South Australians. The Government will commit funding at the State Budget to build five new state-of-the-art stations, including a new city ambulance station, completely rebuild four stations, and upgrade another 10 stations. The investment in SA Ambulance stations will reverse the former Government's neglect, the premier said.
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01 June
WA: $10 million to fast track health and medical research in WA
Some of Western Australia's leading researchers will share in $10 million dollars to kickstart health and medical breakthroughs, with 51 projects awarded grant funding through the Research Excellence Awards 2022, announced WA Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson. The Research Excellence Awards 2022 grants recognise and support high- performing WA health and medical researchers. Fifty-one researchers have been acknowledged, representing WA's top 21, early and mid-career researchers and 30 established researchers. Recipients have been awarded grants between $110,000 and $340,000 to use over a two-year period. They must submit a proposal outlining how the funds will be spent to support their research.
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31 May
NSW: Cochlear boosts NSW MedTech manufacturing
The NSW Government's $250 million Jobs Plus Program will support homegrown MedTech business Cochlear to expand its footprint in NSW, creating more than 170 high-skilled jobs and supporting the development of next-generation hearing implants. Through the support, the world leader in implantable hearing solutions will expand and modernise its advanced manufacturing facility in Sydney's Lane Cove, cementing the facility's critical role in Cochlear's global manufacturing network for the next ten years. NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the investment in Cochlear would boost high-skilled advanced manufacturing jobs in NSW. 'Cochlear is a fantastic Australian success story and we are proud to support NSW expansion that will enable improvements to the innovation it delivers across the globe."
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Health Professionals
01 June
ANMF ready and willing to work with newly appointed Ministers to achieve much needed health and aged care reform
The country's largest union, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), congratulates new Ministers in key portfolios in the Government, including Mark Butler in the health portfolio, Annika Wells in aged care and Ged Kearney, a former nurse and ANMF Federal Secretary, in the role of Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care. The ANMF and its membership of over 310,000 nurses, midwives and care workers look forward to working with Ministers Butler, Wells and Assistant Minister Kearney, so they can deliver on priorities for reforms in health and aged care.
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Health workforce a priority for the new Federal Health Minister
Australia's private hospital sector looks forward to working with Mark Butler, the new Minister for Health and Aged Care, to set Australia's health care system up for post-COVID-19 recovery, with the first policy priority being the critical healthcare workforce shortage, said Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) CEO Michael Roff. Mr Roff said after 12 months as Shadow Minister, Mr Butler has a good understanding of the issues facing the health system and previous experience as a Minister and Assistant Health Minister.
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RACGP looks forward to working with new Government to boost general practice care
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) welcomes the election of Anthony Albanese as Australia's 31st Prime Minister and looks forward to working with Minister for Health Mark Butler in the years ahead. RACGP President Adj. Professor Karen Price congratulated the new Government on their success. 'On behalf of the RACGP well done to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for Health Mark Butler. 'I also congratulate other members of the ministerial team for health, including Anika Wells (Minister for Aged Care and the Minister for Sport), and Ged Kearney (Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care).'
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HESTA welcomes new Parliament's gender equality focus as opportunity to improve superannuation outcomes
Health Employees Superannuation Trust Australia (HESTA) welcomed Australia's 47th Parliament and Ministry, including the new Minister with responsibility for superannuation, Stephen Jones, saying the next three years is an opportunity to put the country's care economy on a more sustainable footing and address gender equity issues that have a real impact on women's retirement outcomes. HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said she was pleased to see during the federal election a focus on issues that matter for the Fund's members, including gender equity, housing affordability, energy policy, a voice for First Nations people and challenges for those working in the care economy.
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31 May
Former Bacchus Marsh clinical care director disqualified
'A tribunal has found the former Director of Clinical and Quality Support Services at Bacchus Marsh Hospital failed in key aspects of her former role during the cluster of stillbirths and newborn deaths at the hospital. A tribunal has reprimanded and disqualified for two years Elizabeth Wilson, former Director of Clinical and Quality Support Services at Bacchus Marsh Hospital (operated by Djerriwarrah Health Services (DjHS)). She has been unregistered since 2016. Five allegations of professional misconduct and unprofessional conduct were proven relating to her time working at the hospital during the cluster of stillbirths and newborn deaths.' said the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Authority (AHPRA).
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TAS: Expanding access for free flu vaccinations statewide
Children aged as young as six months will be able to be vaccinated against influenza at free state-run vaccination clinics across Tasmania from this Saturday, June 4. Currently, the minimum age for influenza vaccinations in state-run clinics is 5 years old. Tasmanian Minister for Health Jeremy Rockliff said this important change will further increase access to influenza vaccinations across the State to ensure as many Tasmanians as possible can be protected from the severe impacts of the flu. State clinics are specially organised to accommodate young children, with nurses trained in paediatric vaccination and longer appointment times.
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30 May
HESTA statement on the proposed AGL demerger
Attributable to Health Employees Superannuation Trust Australia (HESTA) CEO Debby Blakey: "HESTA welcomes the decision by AGL to scrap its demerger plans and announce significant board renewal. Shareholders are increasingly expecting companies to do more to drive a timely, equitable and orderly transition to a low- carbon future. It's vital that company boards consider if they have the right mix of skills and strategic thinking to ensure they remain adaptable as the need for climate action increases in the coming years. HESTA stands ready to work with AGL's current and new board to provide a clear understanding of the expectations of global investors."
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27 May
AMA pushes for hospital boards to combat bullying
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) is pushing all states and territories to follow South Australia's lead and legislate to make hospital boards directly and explicitly responsible for the psychosocial wellbeing of their staff. Continuing efforts to address all forms of bullying, discrimination and harassment and improve the workplace culture of medicine, the AMA is urging all state health minsters to adopt the SA model and will promote this approach at a Medical Board of Australia (MBA) symposium in Melbourne. The MBA's Culture of Medicine Symposium was convened in response to the high occurrence of bullying and harassment reported in its latest Medical Training Survey.
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WA: Actions to build future social assistance and allied health workforce
The WA Government released its blueprint to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the State's rapidly expanding social assistance and allied health sector, said WA Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery. The strategic action plan addresses 25 recommendations put forward by the State Training Board, government's chief industry advisory body on WA's training and workforce needs, in its Social Assistance and Allied Health: Future Workforce Skills report. The report and its recommendations, which specifically aim to develop the Aboriginal health and wellbeing, mental health and alcohol and other drugs support workforces, were informed by extensive consultation with the social assistance and allied health sector across WA, undertaken in conjunction with Community Skills WA.
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Hospitals
27 May
AMA updated Position Statement re-affirms zero tolerance of bullying harassment and discrimination
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) is pushing all states and territories to follow South Australia's lead and legislate to make hospital boards directly and explicitly responsible for the psychosocial wellbeing of their staff. Continuing efforts to address all forms of bullying, discrimination and harassment and improve the workplace culture of medicine, the AMA is urging all state health minsters to adopt the SA model and will promote this approach at a Medical Board of Australia (MBA) symposium in Melbourne. The MBA's Culture of Medicine Symposium was convened in response to the high occurrence of bullying and harassment reported in its latest Medical Training Survey. The survey found one in three Doctors in Training experienced or witnessed bullying, harassment or discrimination.
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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
02 June
SA: Once in a generation mental health investment
SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Chris Picton and SA Treasurer Stephen Mullighan have announced a Once-In-A-Generation Investment Into South Australia's mental health services is a hallmark of the SA government's first state budget. A record $294 million will be allocated to provide better treatment for mental health patients through more hospital beds, expert care and support for families. 100 New inpatient mental health beds will be delivered across the system to improve patient outcomes and help fix the ramping crisis by reducing pressure on the state's emergency departments.
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31 May
Union pressure sees funding finally unlocked to address mental health in FIFO workers!
Thanks to the pressure from the Electrical Trades Union (ETU), the federal government finally unlocked $6M of funding in April to address mental health concerns among fly in fly out (FIFO) workers around Australia. FIFO workers have higher than average rates of anxiety and depression, suffer higher rates of suicidal intent and are more likely to have poor mental health in general. Sadly, this is unsurprising given the extreme work environments, harsh rosters, and routinely uncaring and ignorant approach of management.
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ACT Terms of Reference announced for Dhulwa Inquiry
The ACT Government has announced the Terms of Reference and Independent Chair of the Inquiry into the Legislative, Workplace Governance and Clinical Frameworks of Dhulwa. The Terms of Reference outline how the inquiry will review the facility's governance and operating environment, their effectiveness, and any gaps. ACT Minister for Mental Health Emma Davidson said the inquiry's Terms of Reference has been a collaborative effort between the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation ACT (ANMF) and Canberra Health Services to ensure nurses have their say on how to improve clinical practice and worker safety at Dhulwa.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
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Pharmaceuticals and Regulation
02 June
VIC: Free flu vaccinations for Victorians
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia (Victorian Branch) welcomes the announcement from the Minister for Health, Martin Foley of flu vaccines to be provided to all Victorians at no charge from community pharmacies and general practices from the 1st of June until 30th June 2022. Victorian Branch President, Anthony Tassone said the free flu vaccine program was an important and significant step for the Victorian health system: '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,' he said.
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Understanding GST and health products
If your business sells nutritional supplements, analgesic products or wound care, you may need to include goods and services tax (GST) in the selling price, said the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). GST applies to the following products:
-nutritional supplements, including vitamins and minerals that are supplied in a capsule, caplet, or tablet form
-unrestricted analgesic products sold by supermarkets and other retailers with more than one active ingredient. Active ingredients include aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen and caffeine
-wound care products that are widely used in the general community by people without illnesses or disabilities. This may include items such as plasters that cover blisters, corns and calluses.
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01 June
Program released for Pharmacy Assistant National Conference
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia released the program for the Pharmacy Assistant National Conference (PA2022) which will be held at the Sofitel Brisbane over 28-29 October 2022. The National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Professor Trent Twomey, said that the program focuses on wellness and wellbeing and includes sessions on product knowledge, management and operations, industry updates, and motivational content to inspire pharmacy assistants. 'In response to an extended period of uncertainty, fear, lockdown and disruption, the PA2022 program shines a spotlight on wellness and wellbeing for pharmacy assistants and includes sessions on managing stress and building practical resilience,' Professor Twomey said.
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The pill can affect mood
Finding the right type of contraception is important, said NPS MedicineWise. Oral contraception - also known as the pill - is the most popular and widely used method. In the June edition of Australian Prescriber, Dr Eveline Mu and Professor Jayashri Kulkarni from the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre in Melbourne write how contraceptive pills may affect some women's moods. 'Finding contraception that suits you depends on a number of things. Your age, what you've tried before, your general health, and also your mental health," said Professor Kulkarni. 'One of the most common reasons for women stopping the pill is changes in mood, such as feeling depressed.'
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31 May
Free flu vaccinations welcomed by pharmacists, but nation-wide solution needed to curb surge
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes announcements from state governments in South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria that will provide greater access to influenza vaccines for Australians this winter. Throughout June, people aged five years and over will be able to access a free influenza vaccine from their GP or pharmacist. GPs will continue to administer vaccines to people aged 6 months to five years old. This follows a similar announcement last week from the Queensland Government.
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Incoming Health Minister should champion safe and quality use of medicines
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the announcement of Mark Butler MP as Minister for Health and Aged Care, and Emma McBride MP MPS as Assistant Minister for Regional and Rural Health under the new Government. PSA National President, A/Prof Chris Freeman, said he looks forward to working with the new Federal Government to ensure pharmacists' voices are being heard. 'We look forward to continuing our productive relationship with the Australian Labor Party, in particular with incoming Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler MP,' he said.
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Four out of ten Australians have trouble understanding information about their medicines
More than 4 out of 10 adults in Australia are not able to read and understand important information about their medicines. Jo Medlin, President of the Council for Adult Literacy emphasised the importance of considering health literacy in her keynote presentation at National Medicine Symposium. She talked about the high levels of low adult literacy in Australia and what that means for how people use their medicines. The Australian Core Skills Framework measures literacy in 5 levels.' said NPS MedicineWise
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Putting health literacy into action to improve the quality use of medicines.
The burden of health literacy is commonly placed on consumers, however, it is also the responsibility of the healthcare sector - health professionals, service providers and health organisations to reduce the complexity of the healthcare system. The ABC of health literacy is the theme of the 2022 National Medicines Symposium (NMS) taking place. Health literacy is how people understand information about health and health care, and how they act on it. The fully virtual event hosted by NPS MedicineWise expands on what health literacy is, why it is important, and what can be done to improve it.
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SARMs are not only of threat to fair play, they're also dangerous
'Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are a group of experimental medicines claiming to build muscle mass and bone density without the side effects of steroids. They are not only banned in sport, but many have not undergone clinical trials and have not been deemed fit for human consumption. And lesser known ones such as BMS 564929, AC-262,536 (Accadine), ACP-105, GSK2881078, S1, S9, S-23, and more. Both the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Australia) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued warnings about the health effects of SARMs including adverse effects on the liver and heart.' said Sport Integrity Australia.
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27 May
Influenza vaccine batch release for 2022 season
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has released over 95 batches of influenza vaccine, consisting of over 16.8 million doses, for supply in Australia for the 2022 influenza season. This covers batches for both private supply, including through pharmacies, and for Australian Government funded programs. Eight influenza vaccines are available in Australia in 2022. All of these vaccines are quadrivalent, which means they protect against four strains of influenza. Every year, the TGA reviews the quality of all brands of influenza vaccines seeking to be supplied in the Australian market. The TGA Laboratories have completed batch release assessments of all batches of the 2022 influenza vaccines, confirming that they have met the required standards and no quality issues were identified. The Department of Health works closely with influenza vaccine manufacturers to ensure timely availability of influenza vaccines for all Australians.
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Abatacept (Orencia) shortage: updated IV infusion clinical guidelines
The supply of abatacept has improved, and health professionals can now resume normal prescribing of intravenous (IV) abatacept (Orencia IV infusion), said the Department of Health. The availability of subcutaneous presentations of abatacept products is improving but will remain constrained throughout the first half of 2022. The bextended the Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument(link is external) (SSSI) until 30 June 2022. This will help patients have access to subcutaneous abatacept as supply returns. The SSSI makes sure that pharmacists can offer adult patients whichever subcutaneous presentation is available at the pharmacy without the need for a new script.
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Community pharmacy urges people to get their flu shot in new TV campaign
The importance of getting a flu shot this season is being emphasised through Pharmacy Guild of Australia's television advertising campaign going to air 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. Acting National President of the Pharmacy Guild, Nick Panayiaris, 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,' he said.
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Research
01 June
BioCina: Developing technologies to support the next generation of mRNA-based therapies
Australian biologics manufacturer BioCina has plans to further develop its state-of-the-art facility to enable it to make the next generation of mRNA vaccines and other mRNA-based therapies possible. Backed by Australian Government financial support, BioCina is partnering with the University of Adelaide and US-based Cytiva to speed RNA-based product development and make them more stable, announced AusTrade. This will accelerate progress to clinical trials for future vaccines and other diseases, including cancer. 'There is a large unmet demand for high-quality manufacturing in the microbial space,' said Ian Wisenberg, BioCina's CEO.
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NHMRC health priorities 2021-2024
The major national health issues outlined below are NHMRC's health priorities for the 2021- 2024 triennium. The National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992 (NHMRC Act) requires the CEO to identify major national health issues likely to arise in the coming year and beyond. The major national health issues outlined below have been identified by the NHMRC CEO as priorities for NHMRC for the triennium from 1 July 2021 until 30 June 2024. NHMRC reviews its priorities every three years. In determining NHMRC's health priorities, the CEO consults with the Council, its committees and the Minister, and considers the role of NHMRC within Australia's health and medical research landscape.
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WA: Adult with meningococcal disease
The WA Department of Health reported that an adult has been diagnosed with meningococcal serogroup W disease and is currently recovering in hospital. Meningococcal disease is an uncommon, life-threatening illness caused by a bacterial infection of the blood and/or the membranes that line the spinal cord and brain, and occasionally of other sites, such as the throat, lungs or large joints. To date in 2022, eight meningococcal cases have been reported in WA; four were serogroup B, two were serogroup W and two were serogroup Y. In 2021, a total of 10 meningococcal cases were reported and there were no deaths.
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31 May
Queer young people in Australia face disproportionate challenges
New research from the Monash University Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice has found that queer young people in Australia face disproportionate challenges in contrast to their heterosexual peers in key areas such as education, health and employment. A comprehensive survey of more than five hundred young Australians aged 18-24, and in- depth interviews with an additional 30, encompassed areas such as education, employment, technology, health and wellbeing, finances , housing, civic participation and the impact of COVID-19.
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Rural, Regional and Remote Health
31 May
How to make Quit, stick? Smoking rates still higher in rural and remote
Rural doctors continue to support their patients to quit smoking, but smoking rates still climb between metro, rural and remote populations. Dr Megan Belot, President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) said that smoking remains a terrible health concern in many rural communities. 'For some reason smoking rates get higher the further you head into the bush,' Dr Belot said. 'The first thing we need to do is prevent addiction from happening. Young people need to be discouraged from smoking in the first place, and made aware of the health and wellbeing risks of such an expensive and harmful choice.'
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TAS: Site location for new Glenorchy Ambulance Station
The Tasmanian Government has a plan to improve access to paramedics and improve response times across Tasmania, and they are delivering on it, said Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff. As Tasmania continues to increase their Ambulance and paramedic services across the State, a major milestone has been reached for a new superstation for Glenorchy and the surrounding areas. The new Glenorchy Ambulance Station will be constructed at a greenfield site at 11 Timsbury Road, Glenorchy. Plans have been confirmed for the new ambulance site to accommodate and deploy up to 18 vehicles by 2035.
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30 May
QLD: New rehabilitation facility opens in Central Queensland
Queensland's first purpose-built public residential rehabilitation centre for drug and alcohol addiction has officially opened in Rockhampton. QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk thanked the strong advocacy of local members Keppel MP Brittany Lauga and Rockhampton MP Barry O'Rourke for making the new $16.26 million facility a reality. 'It's called Binbi Yadubay which, in the language of the traditional landowners the Darumbal people means healthy beginnings,' the Premier said. 'No Queenslander should have to battle their addiction alone. They deserve the chance to be free from their addiction to have a healthy beginning." QLD Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D'Ath said the facility was delivering high- quality free support services to people suffering with drug or alcohol addiction.
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Women's Health
01 June
The pill can affect mood
Finding the right type of contraception is important, said NPS MedicineWise. Oral contraception - also known as the pill - is the most popular and widely used method. In the June edition of Australian Prescriber, Dr Eveline Mu and Professor Jayashri Kulkarni from the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre in Melbourne write how contraceptive pills may affect some women's moods. 'Finding contraception that suits you depends on a number of things. Your age, what you've tried before, your general health, and also your mental health," said Professor Kulkarni. 'One of the most common reasons for women stopping the pill is changes in mood, such as feeling depressed.'
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30 May
NSW: $2000 IVF rebates for NSW women
In an Australian first, women in NSW undergoing IVF and accessing other assisted reproductive treatments (ART) will be given a cash rebate of up to $2,000 to reduce treatment costs as part of the NSW Government's 2022-23 Budget. About 12,000 women who are using private fertility clinics will benefit from the rebate, while another 6,180 women will be given access to publicly supported IVF treatment under the $80 million package. NSW Treasurer Matt Kean said about one in 20 births in Australia involve some form of assisted reproductive treatment. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said IVF and fertility preservation can be a difficult process for women, both emotionally and financially.
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Transcripts
Treasurer Jim Chalmers
01 JUN : Transcript of Press Conference, Canberra
Subjects: National accounts, Energy prices, Ministerial statement, Minimum wage, Budget, COVID-19. Labour shortages, Climate change, Cost of living, Fair Work Commission
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton
31 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Allison Langdon, Today Show
Subjects: Federal election, COVID-19, Migration policy, Petrol prices, Gender quotas in Parliament, Nationals party, National security, Pacific, Climate change
Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton
31 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Ben Fordham, Radio 2GB
Subjects: Liberal Party leadership, National Party leadership, Holding the Federal Government to account, National security, Border protection, Economic management, COVID19, China
Australian Medical Association (AMA)
30 MAY: Transcript of Vice President, Dr Chris Moy's Interview with Lisa Millar, ABC News Breakfast
Subjects: Flu vaccination program, Pressure on public hospitals, COVID-19 boosters, Free flu shots in States
Australian Medical Association (AMA)
28 MAY: Transcript of President Dr Omar Khorshid's Interview with Matt Doran and Kylie Ward, Weekend Sunrise
Subjects: Public hospital crisis, Fed & State Govt funding, Ambulance ramping, Healthcare workers
Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher
27 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Jane Norman, ABC Afternoon Briefing
Subjects: COVID-19, Vaccination, Debt, Budget pressures, PEFO, Consulting contracts, Minimum wage, Inflation, Biloela
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Reports
Notification Circular 203-22
Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
This Notification Circular includes notices that are required to be given to the public, submitters and appropriate government agencies, under the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991 (FSANZ Act). Details on the gazettal notification from the notice below were published on 1 June 2022. For information about progress on all current applications and proposals, including anticipated consultation opportunities, see the FSANZ Food Standards Development Work Plan.
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Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) | Drugs subject to Price Disclosure
Department of Health, Pharamceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
This page lists those drugs where a brand of a pharmaceutical item is subject to Price Disclosure requirements and identifies the next Reduction Day for those drugs. Each cycle of Price Disclosure is identified, for consistency and clarity, by the reduction day. For example, the first reduction day under the Originator Removal amendments was the 2016 October Cycle, the second was the 2017 April Cycle, followed by the 2017 October Cycle, etc. Data is collected for each drug and manner of administration (drug/MoA) throughout the year.
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Australian Public Assessment Report for Bevacizumab
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
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Australian Public Assessment Report for Finerenone
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
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Australian Public Assessment Report for Selumetinib
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
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PHI 28/22 Public Hospital Declaration
Department of Health
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Release of final 2022-23 data specifications for the HCP, HCP1, HCP2, GT-Dental, and PHDB data collections
Department of Health
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GST and health
Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
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Do universities and not-for-profit organisations need to register?
Department of Health
If you are a university or not-for-profit organisation introducing industrial chemicals in Australia, you may need to register with us. Universities, colleges, tertiary and research institutes, charities and not-for-profit organisations that import or manufacture industrial chemicals (and products designed to release industrial chemicals) and are working out if they need to register with us - including organisations that:
- buy industrial chemicals from overseas for teaching or research - even if another university already imports the
- same or similar chemicals from overseas
- manufacture industrial chemicals in a lab or classroom for teaching or research - even if another university
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Key factors contributing to low birthweight among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies
Australian Institute of Health & Welfare (AIHW)
According to the analysis in this report, the most important factors contributing to low birthweight among Indigenous babies are the following: maternal smoking during pregnancy; the mother being underweight pre-pregnancy (body mass index of less than 18.5); and the mother not attending antenatal care in the first trimester (before 14 weeks gestational age). If smoking during pregnancy was eliminated, an estimated 37% of low birthweight births among Indigenous babies could be prevented; for maternal underweight this proportion was 8%; and for not attending antenatal care in the first trimester, 4%.
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Australian Public Assessment Report for Deutetrabenazine
Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
This AusPAR describes the application by Teva Pharma Australia Pty Ltd (the sponsor) to register Austedo (deutetrabenazine) 6 mg, 9 mg and 12 mg, modified released tablet for the following proposed indication:
Austedo is indicated for the treatment of:
- chorea associated with Huntington's disease,
- tardive dyskinesia in adults.
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COVID-19 vaccine weekly safety report
Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
Four COVID-19 vaccines are currently in use in Australia - Comimaty (Pfizer), Spikevax (Modema), Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca), and Nuvaxovid (Novavax). To be registered for use, these vaccines must have met the TGA's high standards for quality, safety and effectiveness. The TGA closely monitors reports of suspected side effects (also known as adverse events) to the COVID-19 vaccines. This is the most intensive safety monitoring ever conducted of any vaccines in Australia.
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Alcohol use and harms during the COVID-19 pandemic
Foundation for Alcohol Research & Education (FARE)
The number of Australians seeking out alcohol support services is climbing, according to a new report released by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE). The report, Alcohol use and harms during the COVID-19 pandemic, monitored emerging evidence in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-21). FARE Policy and Research Director, Mr Luke Hutchins, said that the pandemic has significantly disrupted the health and wellbeing of Australians, with stress, anxiety and depression contributing to alcohol problems. 'Last year, Australians made over 25,000 calls to the National Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Hotline - triple the numbers seen pre-pandemic in 2019.'
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Seasonal Influenza Rapid Antigen self-tests and combination tests - Clinical performance requirements and risk mitigation strategies
Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
The purpose of this document is to provide manufacturers and sponsors with guidance on the Therapeutic Goods Administration's (TGA) expectations concerning performance requirements (i.e. analytical and clinical sensitivity and specificity) and risk mitigation for in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs) intended to be used as seasonal influenza rapid antigen tests. This document details key risks that must be mitigated and identifies conditions that may be imposed on these self-test kits if they are included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Additional risks and mitigation strategies, including conditions of inclusion may apply to individual devices on a case-by-case basis.
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Guidance for injuries caused by vaccine administration - COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme
Department of Health
This document sets out points to consider for doctors providing clinical opinion in support of COVID-19 vaccine injury claims following vaccination with a TGA approved vaccine. The COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme (the Scheme) comprises three tiers. Tier 1 covers low level claims under $20,000; Tier 2 covers claims above $20,000; and Tier 3 covers claims in relation to harm that caused, or materially contributed to, the death of a COVID-19 Vaccine Recipient. The approach to the Department of Health assessment and the type of evidence that would be expected in support of a Tier 2 or Tier 3 claim is covered below for each claimable condition.
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Submission to Clinical Practice Guidelines for the appropriate use of psychotropic medications in people living with dementia and in residential aged care consultation
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
The RACGP has provided a submission to the public consultation for Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Appropriate Use of Psychotropic Medications in People Living with Dementia and in Residential Aged Care. The RACGP response highlights recommendations and comments in relation to several of the good practice statements and recommendations, and advises the adoption of an implementation plan and inclusion of further information on:
- non-pharmacological management of behaviours
- other medications for the treatment of Dementia
- a statement about areas out of scope of the Guideline.
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Approval under the Australian Health Service Safety and Quality Accreditation (AHSSQA) Scheme to conduct assessments - Policy
Australian Commission on Safety & Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC)
This document outlines the Commission's policy and processes for obtaining, maintaining and removing approval as an accrediting agency under the Scheme. Approval as an accrediting agency under the Scheme brings with it obligations to comply with this Policy. Insofar as it is applicable to accrediting agencies, to comply with specific conditions of approval under the Scheme, and to co-operate with the Commission as a participant in the Scheme, by ensuring the integrity and standing of the Scheme as a valuable tool of clinical governance for health service organisations.
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COVID-19 vaccine weekly safety report
Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA)
Four COVID-19 vaccines are currently in use in Australia - Comimaty (Pfizer), Spikevax (Modema), Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca), and Nuvaxovid (Novavax). To be registered for use, these vaccines must have met the TGA's high standards for quality, safety and effectiveness. The TGA closely monitors reports of suspected side effects to the COVID-19 vaccines. This is the most intensive safety monitoring ever conducted of any vaccines in Australia. The TGA encourages people to report suspected side effects, even if there's only a very small chance a vaccine was the cause.
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Alcohol use and harms during the COVID-19 pandemic- May 2022
Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE)
This report follows FARE's 2020 report - Alcohol Use and Harm During COVID-19. The analysis continues to monitor alcohol use and harms in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report examines evidence from academic studies, national and international surveys, health and emergency services data, retail trade data, and news media. COVID-19 pandemic and alcohol use trends:
- Several point-in-time surveys indicated the pandemic significantly disrupted many Australians' alcohol use, prompting some to increase alcohol use and some to decrease use.
- An Australian National University (ANU) 2020 study found that since the pandemic, 20 per cent of respondents increased alcohol use, 27 per cent decreased use, and alcohol use stayed the same for 53 per cent.
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Inquiry into Annual and Financial Reports 2020-21
ACT, Standing Committee on Health and Community Wellbeing
Clause 3A of the establishing resolution refers all calendar and financial year annual and financial reports for 2020-2021 to the relevant standing committee for inquiry and report by 31 May 2022 of the year after the presentation of the report to the Assembly pursuant to the Annual Reports (Government Agencies) Act 2004.
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Public hospital declaration - circular
Department Of Health: PHI 29/22
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Shared or brokered care: A paradigm shift for clinical governance frameworks
Australian Healthcare & Hospitals Association (AHHA)
Previous models of clinical governance within the health care system largely focus on service delivery from a single organisation, overseeing and ensuring that quality and effective services are being provided. But in today's health care environment, care is often shared among professionals and providers across the acute public, private, community, primary care, not for profit, aged, and disability sectors. While this has the benefit of specialist care from multi-disciplinary teams of professionals, it can create difficulties for the end consumer in navigating this complicated system and taking full ownership of decisions affecting how their care is delivered and whom by.
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How digital health helped shape Australia's COVID-19 response
Australian Healthcare & Hospitals Association (AHHA)
'Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to quickly embrace digital health technologies like telehealth has been a game changer in our response to this global health crisis,' said Australian Health Review Editor-in-Chief Dr Sonj Hall. The latest edition of the Australian Health review), the Australian Healthcare and Hospital Association's (AHHA) peer-reviewed journal, takes a deep dive on how the rapid uptake of digital health technologies shaped the pandemic response in Australia. It also examines how this has impacted, and continues to impact, the continuation of primary care and other vital health services.
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COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme policy 2021 - Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Regulations 1997
Department Of Health
This Policy:
(a) describes the basis on which the Commonwealth may make a grant of financial assistance to a person who submits a Claim for Compensation; and
(b) sets out the rules that govern the arrangements made for the purposes of the Scheme under section 32B (1) of the Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Act 1997 (Cth).
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New SDA quarterly report
National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA)
The key highlights of this report are:
-SDA supply continues to trend upwards, particularly in the High Physical Support design category.
- The largest percentage of participants eligible for SDA and seeking a dwelling are for improved liveability needs.
- SDA eligibility by primary disability type continues to diversify.
-This report introduces a new table for the number of equivalent SDA places for residents in the pipeline.
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Hansards
South Australia
01 JUN 2022: SA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Parliamentary Committees - COVID-19 Direction Accountability and Oversight Committee
01 JUN 2022: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Motions - Select Committee on Health Services in South Australia
31 MAY 2022: SA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - South Australian Public Health (COVID-19) Amendment Bill 2022 - Assent
31 MAY 2022: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Parliamentary Committees - COVID-19 Direction, Accountability and Oversight Committee
31 MAY 2022: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - South Australian Public Health (COVID-19) Amendment Bill 2022 - Assent
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Court Cases
None this edition.
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New Regulations
National Health Security (National Notifiable Disease List) Amendment Instrument 2022 - Subsection 12(1) - National Health Security Act 2007
Legislative Instrument - F2022L00734
The Amending Instrument amends the National Health Security (National Notifiable Disease List) Instrument 2018 (the Principal Instrument) to improve the national surveillance of 'Monkeypox virus infection'. The amendment adds 'Monkeypox virus infection' to the Principal Instrument, making this disease nationally notifiable. This will make a clear statement of intent about the public health priority of the disease. These amendments do not make any substantive changes to the law.
Explanatory Statement
Food Standards (Application A1230 - Very Low Energy Diets (VLED)) Variation - Section 92 - Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991
Legislative Instrument - F2022L00733
The Board of Food Standards Australia New Zealand gives notice of the making of this variation under section 92 of the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991. The variation commences on the date specified in clause 3 of this variation.
Explanatory Statement
National Health (Highly Specialised Drugs Program) Special Arrangement Amendment (June Update) Instrument 2022 - Subsection 100(2) - National Health Act 1953
Legislative Instrument - F2022L00732
This instrument is the National Health (Highly Specialised Drugs Program) Special Arrangement Amendment (June Update) Instrument 2022. This instrument may also be cited as PB 47 of 2022.
Explanatory Statement
National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement Amendment Instrument 2022 (No. 5)
Legislative Instrument - F2022L00731
The purpose of this Instrument, made under subsection 100(2) of the Act, is to amend the National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement 2011 (PB 79 of 2011) (the Special Arrangement) to make changes relating to the Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy. The Special Arrangement achieves greater efficiency in payment for the supply of injected or infused chemotherapy medicines ('chemotherapy pharmaceutical benefits') to eligible patients being treated for cancer, to reflect the 2010 Budget measure titled 'Revised arrangements for the efficient funding of chemotherapy drugs'.
Explanatory Statement
Poisons Standard June 2022 - Paragraph 52D(2)(b) - Therapeutic Goods Act 1989
Legislative Instrument - F2022L00730
The Poisons Standard June 2022, which, under section 4 above contains the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons No. 36 ('the Standard' or 'the SUSMP'), is made under paragraph 52D(2)(b) of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, and is a compilation of decisions made under section 52D of the same Act. The SUSMP should be read in conjunction with the Scheduling Policy Framework ('SPF') of the Australian Health Ministers' Advisory Council.
Explanatory Statement
National Health (Commonwealth Price and Conditions for Commonwealth Payments for Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Amendment Determination 2022 (No. 3)
Legislative Instrument- F2022L00726
The purpose of this legislative instrument, made under section 98C(1) of the National Health Act 1953 (the Act), is to amend the National Health (Commonwealth Price and Conditions for Commonwealth Payments for Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Determination 2019 (the Principal Determination) to make changes to the pharmaceutical benefits and ingredients in relation to which particular rules apply for ascertaining the Commonwealth price payable to an approved medical practitioner or an approved pharmacist for supply, and to make changes to the list of pharmaceutical benefits that must be supplied in complete packs.
Explanatory Statement
National Health (Pharmaceutical benefits - early supply) Amendment Instrument 2022 (No. 5)
Legislative Instrument- F2022L00725
The purpose of this legislative instrument, made under subsection 84AAA(2) of the National Health Act 1953 (the Act) is to amend the National Health (Pharmaceutical benefits-early supply) Instrument 2015 (PB 120 of 2015) (the Principal Instrument). PB 120 of 2015 specifies the pharmaceutical items that are in pharmaceutical benefits for which Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) safety net entitlements will not apply for early supplies, and to specify the period following previous supply.
Explanatory Statement
National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Amendment Instrument 2022 (No. 5)
Legislative Instrument- F2022L00724
The purpose of this legislative instrument, made under sections 84AF, 84AK, 85, 85A, 88 and 101 of the National Health Act 1953 (the Act), is to amend the National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Instrument 2012 (PB 71 of 2012) to make changes to the pharmaceutical benefits listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and related matters. PB 71 of 2012 determines the pharmaceutical benefits that are on the PBS through declarations of drugs and medicinal preparations, and determinations of forms, manners of administration and brands. It also provides for related matters (equivalent brands, responsible persons, prescribing circumstances, maximum quantities, number of repeats, determined quantity and pack quantity, section 100 only status and prescriber bag only status).
Explanatory Statement
Food Standards (Application A1231) Maltogenic alpha amylase from GM Escherichia coli) Variation
Legislative Instrument- F2022L00723
The Authority has approved a draft variation amending the table to section S18-9(3) of the Code to permit the use of the enzyme, maltogenic alpha amylase (EC 3.2.1.133) sourced from a GM strain of E. coli expressing a maltogenic alpha amylase gene from Geobacillus stearothermophilus, as a processing aid in baking, brewing and starch processing, subject to the condition that the amount of enzyme used must be consistent with good manufacturing practice (GMP). The Authority noted that the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology uses the 'accepted' name 'glucan 1,4-a-maltohydrolase' for this enzyme.
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National Health (Price and Special Patient Contribution) Amendment Determination 2022 (No. 5)
Legislative Instrument - F2022L00721
The Act provides for the Minister and the responsible person to agree a price that is taken to be the appropriate maximum price of a brand of a pharmaceutical item for the purposes of Part VII of the Act (section 85AD). This instrument (the Amendment Determination) amends the Principal Determination by reflecting the increases to existing brand premiums in addition to imposing new brand premiums for multiple pharmaceutical items as requested by responsible persons. It also reflects removal of brand premiums for three brands of three pharmaceutical items due to supply issues with the available generic brands. The amendments provided by this instrument take effect on 1 June 2022.
Explanatory Statement
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Proclamations
None this edition.
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Gazette Notices
Federal
01 JUN 2022: GOVERNMENT NOTICES GAZETTE: Public Service Act 1999 - Section 65 - Order to Identify the Minister Responsible for the National Mental Health Commission
New South Wales
31 MAY 2022: NSW GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. 231: Government Notices - Health and Education
Western Australia
31 MAY 2022: WA GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: General Gazette 73 - Health
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Consolidated Legislation
Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices-Information that Must Accompany Application for Inclusion) Determination 2018
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2022C00590
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices-Information that Must Accompany Application for Inclusion) Amendment (European Union-Consequential Amendments) Determination 2022
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New Bills
None this edition.
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New Acts
None this edition.
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