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 February
ACT: New COVID-19 public exposure sites identified in Victoria
There have been no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the ACT in the past 24 hours, leaving the ACT's total at 118. There are no active cases in the ACT. A total of 115 cases have recovered from COVID-19 in the ACT. There are no COVID-19 patients in Canberra hospitals. The ACT has recorded three (3) deaths, said ACT Health.
Download
QLD: Update on Greater Melbourne situation, new wastewater detection
Queensland is continuing to monitor the situation in Greater Melbourne, following no new cases, said the Queensland Department of Health. Queensland's Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Sonya Bennett said while the growing list of venues visited by COVID-positive people is a concern, there will be no border changes at this stage. 'No new cases overnight associated with the Melbourne Airport Holiday Inn cluster is good news, so we'll continue to watch the situation,' she said.
Download
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
NSW recorded no new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm, said the NSW Department of Health. Three new cases were acquired overseas, bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic to 4,943. There were 16,397 tests reported to 8pm, compared with the previous day's total of 18,885.
Download
NSW: Public Health Alert - Victorian arrivals
NSW Health is calling on anyone who entered NSW from Victoria since 27 January to check whether they have been to a venue of concern in Melbourne. The list of venues has been updated and further updates may follow, so please keep a careful watch on the web site. A full list of venues of concern is available at the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website and is updated regularly.
Download
WA: COVID-19 update 11 February 2021
The WA Department of Health has reported one new case of COVID-19, bringing the State's total to 910. The positive case is a female aged in her 40s who travelled to Perth from overseas and is in hotel quarantine. 3,732 people were tested for COVID-19 across the State. At WA Health COVID clinics 686 presented for testing - 673 were assessed and swabbed.
Download
10 February
Urgent action needed on hotel quarantine
The latest cases of COVID-19 transmission in Victoria are yet another failure of infection control systems in hotel quarantine and show the need for urgent action nationally, AMA President Dr Omar Khorshid said. The Holiday Inn at Melbourne Airport has been evacuated and more than 950 hotel quarantine workers are in self-isolation after two new cases were identified. 'This new, more infectious UK strain has blown open cracks in our hotel quarantine system, putting the nation at risk,' Dr Khorshid said.
Download
AMA urges national action on hotel quarantine
The AMA has warned that the nation is at risk if the current hotel quarantine system remains in place. AMA President Dr Omar Khorshid said: 'The more infectious UK strain has blown open cracks in our hotel quarantine system, putting the nation at risk'. With the outbreaks in Melbourne and Perth, the past three months have now seen all five of Australia's biggest cities hit by COVID-19 outbreaks from hotel quarantine. Hotel quarantine outbreaks of COVID-19 remain the biggest failing right now in the COVID response, said Shadow Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler.
Download
NT: Melbourne Suburb declared as COVID-19 hotspot
The Chief Health Officer has declared the Melbourne suburb of Sunbury as a COVID-19 Hotspot for the purposes of travel to the Northern Territory from 9.00am, 10 February 2021. The three suburbs declared on Monday 8 February of Maidstone, Sunshine and Taylors Lake also remain as declared hotspots, said the NT Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet.
Download
SA: COVID-19 Update
There have been two new cases of COVID-19, reported from a medi-hotel. There have been a total of 605 cases notified in South Australia. Changes made to COVID-19 testing sites operating hours due to forecast hot weather on Thursday. SA Health and SA Police are awaiting further information from Victorian authorities.
Download
WA: Health Services (Fees and Charges) Amendment Order 2021 - Health Services Act 2016 - SL 2021/20
The WA Department of Health has reported two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the State's total to 909.
The cases are a male and female aged in their 30s who have travelled from overseas. Both cases are in hotel quarantine. 6,126 people were tested for COVID-19 across the State. At WA Health COVID clinics 816 presented for testing - 808 were assessed and swabbed.
Download
9 February
COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring plan
The Department of Health announced that the aim of the COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Monitoring Plan is to strengthen the existing vaccine vigilance system for early detection and investigation of suspected side effects (also known as adverse events) following COVID-19 immunisation. The key objectives of the COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Monitoring Plan are:
1. timely collection and management of reports of COVID-19 vaccine adverse events following immunisation
2. timely detection and investigation of COVID-19 vaccine safety signals
3. timely action to address any COVID-19 vaccine safety concerns
4. timely communications to inform the public of emerging COVID-19 vaccine safety information and to support public confidence in vaccines
5. close collaboration and coordination of effort with other vaccine safety stakeholder groups.
Download
QLD: Queensland Health update and further positive wastewater detections
The Queensland Department of Health said that Queensland is continuing to monitor the situation in New South Wales and Victoria regarding their most recent confirmed cases. Queensland Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Sonya Bennett said she was pleased with the high rates of testing and contact tracing in New South Wales and Victoria. 'Both states have been quick to act in relation to their latest cases and we are continuing to monitor and review the situation daily,' Dr Bennett said. 'The hotel quarantine worker in Victoria has been confirmed as infectious while in the community, and I encourage anyone who has been in Victoria since 5 February to check the list of venues attended by this case and follow the health advice,' she said.
Download
SA: COVID-19 Update 9 February
The SA Department of Health said that there has been no new cases of COVID-19. There have been a total of 603 cases notified in South Australia. South Australia COVID-19 update:
- 0 new cases
- 2 active COVID-19 cases
- 4,188 tests
- 994,479 tests in total
- 603 confirmed cases in total
- 597 people have recovered from COVID-19
- 4 COVID-19 related deaths
Download
WA: COVID-19 update 9 February 2021
The WA Department of Health has reported no new cases of COVID-19. The State's total number of confirmed cases remains at 907. 6,875 people were tested for COVID-19 across the State. At WA Health COVID clinics 1,045 presented for testing - 1,033 were assessed and swabbed. Details of all clinics are available on the HealthyWA website. WA Health is monitoring 9 active cases of COVID-19 - 889 people have recovered from the virus in WA. To date, 19 cases of variant strains have been detected in Western Australia (15 B.1.1.7 strain and 4 B.1.351 strain).
Download
8 February
First COVID-19 Vaccine - Pfizer - Training program
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that the first Australian Government funded training modules for the COVID-19 vaccination workforce, including for immunisation providers and non-clinical and administration staff, is now available. The Australian Government has partnered with the Australian College of Nursing to develop and deliver the free and accredited training modules for all COVID-19 vaccination providers. The training is being provided free to all authorised COVID-19 vaccination providers. The training modules cover multi-dose vials, handling and storage of vaccines, safety and surveillance monitoring, and reporting for adverse events following immunisation.
Download
ACT: New exposure sites in Victoria
The ACT Department of Health said that there have been no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the ACT in the past 24 hours, leaving the ACT's total at 118. There are no active cases in the ACT. A total of 115 cases have recovered from COVID-19 in the ACT. There are no COVID-19 patients in Canberra hospitals. The ACT has recorded three (3) deaths. The number of negative tests recorded in the ACT is now 159,528 with 211 tests in the past 24 hours.
Download
NSW: Public health alert - Updated advice
NSW Health has updated its advice for people who attended two previously announced venues in the Wollongong area. As reported Sunday, a confirmed case of COVID-19 visited these venues after they were released from hotel quarantine and before they were notified of a positive result from their day-16 test. Anyone who was in the beer garden of the Headlands Hotel or who dined in at the Bulli Beach Café at the times listed is now considered a close contact and should immediately get tested and self-isolate for 14 days, regardless of the result.
Download
NSW: Investigating source of COVID-19 case
NSW Health said it will undertake an extensive investigation into the source of a new COVID-19 case, including the possibility of transmission within a hotel quarantine facility. The case is a returned overseas traveller who tested positive to COVID-19 after being released from hotel quarantine at the Sofitel Wentworth. Comprehensive testing is underway to assist NSW Health understand the timing and nature of the case's infection, including whether their infection is a known variant of concern. Several returned overseas travellers in the same quarantine hotel returned positive COVID-19 results while the case reported was undertaking quarantine.
Download
NSW: New cleaning squads for Sydney CBD
The COVID-19 cleaning squads will help protect the community by ramping up cleaning services at key transport hubs across the Sydney CBD. NSW Health said the dedicated cleaning squad will also provide face masks to commuters at transport hubs including Central, Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay and Martin Place. Over 1000 touchpoints will be cleaned during each shift to help stop any potential spread of COVID-19. Key touchpoints include transport hub stops, waiting areas and bike racks. Since March 2020, 1.7 million hours of cleaning services have been carried out across the NSW public transport network.
Download
NT: New Melbourne Suburbs declared hotspots
The Northern Territory Chief Health Officer has declared three suburbs across Metropolitan Melbourne as COVID-19 Hotspots for the purposes of travel to the Northern Territory from 3.30pm on 8 February 2021 and revoked the 10 suburbs declared hotspots on 4 February 2021. The three suburbs declared as hotspots, 8 February are:
- Maidstone
- Sunshine
- Taylors Lakes
Download
SA: COVID-19 Update 8 February
The South Australia Department of Health said that there has been one new case of COVID-19, reported from a medi-hotel. There have been a total of 603 cases notified in South Australia. The case is a man in his 20s who recently returned from overseas and has been in a medi-hotel since his arrival. Serology is underway to determine if this is an old infection. South Australia COVID-19 update:
- 1 new case
- 3 active COVID-19 cases
- 3,627 tests
- 994,479 tests in total
- 603 confirmed cases in total
- 596 people have recovered from COVID-19
- 4 COVID-19 related deaths
Download
6 February
NSW: New COVID-19 cleaning squads hit the CBD
Additional dedicated cleaning squads have rolled out across CBD transport hubs, to help keep commuters COVID safe. NSW Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the roving teams are cleaning high touch points at five key locations and handing out masks to commuters. 'In addition to the cleaners on our services, we have now rolled out additional cleaning squads to keep stops, waiting areas and even bike racks clean to help stop the spread of COVID-19,' Mr Constance said. 'More than 1,000 touch points are cleaned each shift at Central, Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay and Martin Place, and more than 92,000 masks have been handed out to customers.'
Download
NT: Positive COVID-19 case update
Two new positive COVID-19 cases have been recorded in the Northern Territory, said the NT Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet. Two children who arrived on the repatriation flight from New Delhi on 4 February 2021 have tested positive for COVID-19. Both patients are asymptomatic and are under the care of the AUSMAT team at the NT Centre for National Resilience. Since repatriation flights to the Northern Territory began on 23 October 2020:
- 3393 international arrivals have undertaken quarantine at the Howard Springs Centre for National Resilience
- A total of 64 positive COVID-19 cases have been reported from international repatriation.
Download
5 February
National Cabinet
The National Cabinet met to discuss Australia's COVID-19 response, the Australian COVID-19 Vaccination Policy and management of Australia's borders in the context of the emergence of new variants, said Prime Minister Scott Morrison. National Cabinet continues to work together to address issues and find solutions to the health and economic consequences of COVID-19. National Cabinet also received a detailed briefing on the economic and jobs outlook by the Commonwealth Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy.
Download
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
NSW recorded no new locally acquired cases of COVID-19, said NSW Health. No new cases were acquired overseas, meaning the total number of COVID-19 cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic remains at 4,928. The last time NSW reported no new locally acquired cases and no new overseas acquired cases on the same day was the 24 hours to 8pm on 25 November 2020. There were 10,113 tests reported to 8pm, compared with the previous day's total of 10,551.
Download
QLD: Grand Chancellor report targets hotel quarantine improvements
Queensland Minister for Health Yvette D'Ath has committed to implementing the recommendations in a report into hotel quarantine sparked by the infection of a worker in Brisbane's Hotel Grand Chancellor. Minister D'Ath said the joint Queensland Health-Queensland Police Service report made seven key recommendations for improving training, procedures and hotel quarantine compliance. 'While we've successfully contained the Hotel Grand Chancellor cluster, we're determined to learn the lessons outlined in this report,' Ms D'Ath said. 'The government accepts the report's recommendations and we'll work closely with Queensland Health and Queensland Police Service to implement them.'
Download
Return to top
Aged Care
10 February
Age services providers called to support critical collection of workforce data
Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), in partnership with Mercer, is calling on every residential and home care provider across Australia to participate in a critical workforce benchmarking study to help drive a sustainable future for the age services industry. Lack of workforce benchmarking data has been highlighted as an issue by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and in the leading workforce strategy document from 2018, A Matter of Care.
Download
9 February
Financial means and quality in residential aged care
New research by the Office of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety investigated whether the quality of aged care facilities varies with residents' financial means. The research draws on public submissions, focus groups and statistical analysis of data collected from across the aged care system. The results are presented in Research Paper 19 - Does the quality of residential aged care vary with residents' financial means? In the public submissions, older people with lower financial means felt they had, or were perceived to have, less choice and be more at risk of financial stress when making decisions in times of crisis.
Download
Aged care hospitalisations escalating dramatically under coalition
Shadow Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services and Clare O'Neil Shadow Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler said that: 'New analysis from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety categorically shows hospitalisation because of preventable causes has dramatically escalated in residential aged care. Under the Coalition's watch, 36.9 per cent of all aged care residents presented to emergency at least once a year. The report shows there has been a horrific rise in preventable causes of hospitalisation in the five years to 2018/19, including malnourishment (spiking by 19 per cent) and falls (increasing by 24 per cent).'
Download
8 February
Aged care voluntary industry code of practice
The Australian Government congratulated the Aged Care Workforce Industry Council on its official launch of the Voluntary Industry Code of Practice. Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services, Richard Colbeck said the Code of Practice is already receiving strong early support from the aged care sector, as some of Australia's largest providers pledge their commitment to quality care. 'This Code of Practice is the first of its kind for the aged care sector in Australia,' Minister Colbeck said. 'It is based on seven guiding principles for quality care and will be a transformative tool for Australia's aged care sector.'
Download
The aged care voluntary industry code of practice
The Aged Care Workforce Industry Council thanked Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) for their leadership in developing this version through the consultation process they have led. The Council also acknowledges the support of the members of the project reference group which included representation from LASA, Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA), The Aged Care Guild, Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN), the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission, Commonwealth Department of Health; and National Seniors, Bluecare and United Workers (who are also Directors of the Council).
Download
Most aged care residents miss out on medication reviews
Two years after entering a residential aged care facility (RACF) less than half of residents have had their medications reviewed through the Australian government's residential medication management review (RMMR) program - a service designed for facilitating best possible use of medicines in RACFs - according to research published by the Medical Journal of Australia. 'Previous studies have found that RMMRs by accredited pharmacists and general practitioners identify an average of 2.7-3.9 medication-related problems per resident, with 45-84% of pharmacists' recommendations accepted by GPs,' wrote the authors, led by Dr Janet Sluggett, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of South Australia, and the Registry of Senior Australians at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute.
Download
Return to top
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety
None this edition.
Return to top
Allied Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Children's Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Clinical Governance
None this edition.
Return to top
Construction and Health Infrastructure
None this edition.
Return to top
Dental
None this edition.
Return to top
Disabilities
None this edition.
Return to top
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
10 February
Third Progress Report
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
This is the Third progress report of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability. It covers the period from 1 July to 31 December 2020.
Download
Return to top
E-Health
11 February
The vaccination certificate now under a spotlight
The imminent rollout of a digital COVID-19 vaccination certification risks becoming another government tech wreck, Labor and a number of digital rights advocates have warned, with concerns over the lack of consultation and privacy considerations, said InnovationAus. The Federal Government revealed that Australians would be able to access a proof of vaccination certification following a COVID-19 vaccine through the Express Plus Medicare app or the myGov app. This will be completed through the existing Australian Immunisation Register (AIM), which includes history statements and proof of vaccinations.
Download
Return to top
Education and Training
9 February
Opportunities for the next generation of local scientists
A new training centre aimed at developing a sustainable, local biomedical and health sciences workforce has been launched at Menzies School of Health Research (Menzies). There is currently a shortage of biomedical and health sciences staff in the Northern Territory (NT) and many of those in the workforce are from outside of the NT. The Ramaciotti Regional and Remote Health Sciences Training Centre (the Centre) will provide a new pathway into laboratory and health sector careers for young Territorians, with a focus on career development for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
Download
Return to top
Funding
12 February
NT: B Part of It NT: Free Meningococcal B Vaccine for Young Territorians
Thousands of young Territorians will be vaccinated against meningococcal B for free, as part of a study being undertaken in the Northern Territory for the first time. B Part of It NT, is being led by researchers from The University of Adelaide and the University of Queensland. It is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, and carried out in partnership with NT Health, the Commonwealth Government, AMSANT, SA Health, and the Women's and Children's Hospital Foundation, said NT Minister for Health Natasha Fyles.
Download
11 February
$3 million for McGrath Foundation Breast Care Nurses
Breast care nurses epitomise what it is to be a national hero and it is with great privilege the Government is able to continue supporting The McGrath Foundation's breast care nurses with a $3 million investment in 2021. The funding will support these wonderful Australians as they continue to protect and save the lives of so many Australian women with breast cancer, said Acting Prime Minister Michael McCormack, Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt and Minister for Women Marise Payne.
Download
VIC: Big boost for Victorian health infrastructure
The Government is supporting Victorian hospitals, community health services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations with $320 million in funding to upgrade vital health infrastructure. Victorian Minister for Health Martin Foley announced submissions for the new $200 million Metropolitan Health Infrastructure Fund (MHIF) and the fifth round of the $120 million Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF) have opened, ensuring health services across the state can continue to provide world-class healthcare for all Victorians.
Download
9 February
Grants to boost organ donation rate now open
Applications are open for up to $4 million over four years for national partnerships and up to $450,000 for community-based initiatives in 2021 to encourage more Australians to say 'yes' to organ and tissue donation. Minister responsible for the Organ and Tissue Authority (OTA) Mark Coulton said the DonateLife Partnerships and 2021 Community Awareness Grants offer unique opportunities to increase reach and engagement for organ and tissue donation with key target audience groups - both at a national and a local level. 'Increasing awareness about organ and tissue donation and encouraging families to talk about donation and registration, is vital to getting more people to say 'yes' to donation,' Mr Coulton said.
Download
Return to top
Health Professionals
9 February
Australian-first plan to boost primary care research to improve patient care
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) said that an Australian-first plan to boost primary care research and drive improved patient outcomes, has been backed by $1 million in grant funding. The RACGP, together with TROPHI partners - the Monash University Department of General Practice and the University of Melbourne Department of General Practice - have welcomed the grant from the Windermere Foundation. TROPHI will establish a first-of-its-kind framework in Australia to boost general practice and primary care research, built on local community networks and collaboration among GPs, nursing and allied health practitioners, and academics.
Download
Return to top
Hospitals
None this edition.
Return to top
Insurance
8 February
Genetic discrimination in life insurance: Is the moratorium sufficient?
The self-regulated moratorium restricting the use of genetic test results in life insurance underwriting comes up for review in 2022 and a new research project has been initiated to ensure the review gets independent and adequate evidence. Writing in the Medical Journal of Australia, public health genomics experts said the project - Australian Genetics and Life Insurance Moratorium: Monitoring the Effectiveness and Response (AGLIMMER) - brings together leading researchers, clinicians, patient groups, and policy experts in Australia to answer the question of whether the Financial Services Council (FSC) moratorium is 'an adequate and effective long term regulatory solution for Australia'.
Download
Return to top
Medicare
None this edition.
Return to top
Men's Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Mental Health
11 February
VIC: Mental health support for hair, hotel and retail workers
Victorian Minister for Small Business Jaala Pulford said up to 10 industry and business associations would be backed to employ a mental health specialist in their team, providing direct support to small businesses that are doing it tough. A specialist is already working within the Hair and Beauty Industry Association, the Australian Hotels Association and the Australian Retailers Association to identify the mental health and wellbeing needs of the associations' members and staff and develop tailored support services, said Victorian Minister for Mental Health James Merlino.
Download
10 February
Smiling Minds boost to support rural and regional schools
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that school children across six hundred of Australia's rural and regional primary schools will have access to expanded mental health supports through the Morrison Government's $2.5 million funding for the Smiling Mind evidence-based mindfulness social and emotional learning program. Half of all mental health issues emerge before the age of 14 years and poor mental health affects learning. Smiling Mind Regional and Rural Schools Program will benefit thousands of children a year. The online program runs over three school terms each year, involving both school staff training in mindfulness and resources to sustain the program and its benefits for the school.
Download
National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing gets underway
The Government has launched the first phase of Australia's $89.5 million Intergenerational Health and Mental Health Study - the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing. This comprehensive survey aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the mental health challenges that Australians are facing. Almost half of Australians experience some form of mental illness at some point in their lifetime. In addition, the 2019 bushfires and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly affected the mental health and wellbeing of many people across the country, said Minister Hunt.
Download
ACT: CT Government response to Inquiry into Youth Mental Health
ACT Minister for Mental Health Emma Davidson tabled the ACT Government's Response to the Standing Committee on Education, Employment and Youth Affairs Inquiry into Youth Mental Health in the ACT. 'The mental health and wellbeing of children and young people is an important priority area for the ACT Government. Early intervention and prevention are key to promoting positive mental wellbeing and addressing the many complex issues that impact the mental health of our young people,' Minister Davidson said.
Download
Return to top
Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
Return to top
Pharmaceuticals and Regulation
8 February
AstraZeneca Pty Ltd granted licence for the commercial supply of a COVID-19 vaccine
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has issued licence DIR 180 to AstraZeneca Pty Ltd. This licence allows for the importation, transport, storage and disposal of a COVID-19 vaccine. Approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is also required for the commercial supply and administration of the vaccine as part of the government's COVID-19 Vaccine and Treatment Strategy. The licence decision was informed by a Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) undertaken by the OGTR with input from stakeholders nationwide. This included consultation with the public, state and territory governments, Australian Government agencies, the Minister for the Environment, and the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee.
Download
Notification of application
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has received a licence application (DIR 183) from the Westmead Institute for Medical Research to conduct a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of GM E.coli to deliver genes to gut bacteria that restore sensitivity to antibiotics. A summary of the application is posted on the website under 'What's New'. The clinical trial is proposed to take place at Westmead hospitals over a period of 5 years. Up to 100 participants per year would receive the treatment. The OGTR is preparing a Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan for the application.
Download
Return to top
Research
10 February
Providing hope for Australians suffering from Neurofibromatosis
The $7 million Medial Research Future Fund (MRFF) Neurofibromatosis Research Grant Opportunity will support ground breaking research projects to develop new interventions and improve healthcare and outcomes for people living with neurofibromatosis. Neurofibromatosis is a genetic condition that can causes tumours to form around nerves, including in the brain and spinal cord. It is more common in children and young adults and while there currently is no cure, treatments can help manage this condition, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt.
Download
9 February
Opportunities for the next generation of local scientists
A new training centre aimed at developing a sustainable, local biomedical and health sciences workforce has been launched at Menzies School of Health Research (Menzies). There is currently a shortage of biomedical and health sciences staff in the Northern Territory (NT) and many of those in the workforce are from outside of the NT. The Ramaciotti Regional and Remote Health Sciences Training Centre (the Centre) will provide a new pathway into laboratory and health sector careers for young Territorians, with a focus on career development for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
Download
Why epidemiology matters
The Sax Institute said that public health research received some well-deserved recognition in this year's Australia Day honours list with the appointment of epidemiologist Professor Emily Banks as a Member of the Order of Australia. Professor Banks, a Senior Adviser at the Sax Institute and head of the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health at ANU, has had a long and illustrious career in public health, both in Australia and internationally. On the occasion of her award, Evidence Matters sat down with Emily Banks to discuss the importance of epidemiology and the future of public health.
Download
8 February
Inflammatory bowel disease: Prevalence higher in older age groups
The prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease in a metropolitan area of Sydney - 348 per 100 000 population - was found to be the 'highest ever reported in Australia', with the rates in older age groups even steeper, according to research published in the Medical Journal of Australia. 'Our major finding was that age-specific prevalence of IBD increased with age. We found the highest age-standardised prevalence rates of IBD (348 cases per 100 000 population), Crohn disease (166 per 100 000 population) and ulcerative colitis (148 per 100 000 population) of any study in Australia or New Zealand,' the authors wrote.
Download
Most aged care residents miss out on medication reviews
Two years after entering a residential aged care facility (RACF) less than half of residents have had their medications reviewed through the Australian government's residential medication management review (RMMR) program - a service designed for facilitating best possible use of medicines in RACFs - according to research published by the Medical Journal of Australia. 'Previous studies have found that RMMRs by accredited pharmacists and general practitioners identify an average of 2.7-3.9 medication-related problems per resident, with 45-84% of pharmacists' recommendations accepted by GPs,' wrote the authors, led by Dr Janet Sluggett, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of South Australia, and the Registry of Senior Australians at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute.
Download
Return to top
Rural, Regional and Remote Health
11 February
NACCHO Aboriginal Health News: Update on Australia's COVID-19 vaccines
A staged rollout of the vaccines will commence in February 2021. The Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine will be managed through 30 to 50 key hospitals across urban, regional and rural Australia. Provisional approval of the University of Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is currently expected in February by the Therapeutics Good Administration (TGA). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults have been identified as a priority group for vaccination. This is because there is a higher risk of getting and developing serious illness from COVID-19 due to a number of factors, said NACCHO.
Download
9 February
Opportunities for the next generation of local scientists
A new training centre aimed at developing a sustainable, local biomedical and health sciences workforce has been launched at Menzies School of Health Research (Menzies). There is currently a shortage of biomedical and health sciences staff in the Northern Territory (NT) and many of those in the workforce are from outside of the NT. The Ramaciotti Regional and Remote Health Sciences Training Centre (the Centre) will provide a new pathway into laboratory and health sector careers for young Territorians, with a focus on career development for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
Download
Bush Uber... but for blood and meds: Australia's first drone trial for life-saving medical supplies for remote communities
Custom-made, state-of-the-art medical drones with a flying range of up to 250km will be developed and trialled for delivery of potentially life-saving medicines in the Northern Territory - Australia's first ever healthcare drone trail for regional Australia. The project will also pave the way for future delivery of critical items such as cold-storage vaccines (COVID 19) in regional and remote communities, the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre - part of the Federal Government-funded CRC Program.
Download
NT: Keeping Territorians safe - Drones to deliver health services
In a first for the Northern Territory, drones will be used to deliver health care into remote communities across the NT said Territory Minister for Health Natasha Fyles. The drones will expedite the delivery of time-critical medical items into hard to reach and seasonally inaccessible remote communities, helping save lives and reducing costs of delivery. The Territory Government is partnering with Charles Darwin University and iMOVE Australia to commission the drones. The project will initially investigate the logistical challenges of using drone technology to deliver health services in the Territory.
Download
Return to top
Women's Health
11 February
$3 million for McGrath Foundation Breast Care Nurses
Breast care nurses epitomise what it is to be a national hero and it is with great privilege the Government is able to continue supporting The McGrath Foundation's breast care nurses with a $3 million investment in 2021. The funding will support these wonderful Australians as they continue to protect and save the lives of so many Australian women with breast cancer, said Acting Prime Minister Michael McCormack, Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt and Minister for Women Marise Payne.
Download
Return to top
Transcripts
Australian Medical Association (AMA)
11 FEB: Transcript of Interview by President, Dr Omar Khorshid, with Peter Stefanovic, Sky News Live, First Edition
Subjects: PPE, Coronavirus, Victoria Holiday Inn cluster, Pfizer vaccine, Vaccine rollout
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese
11 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Marcus Paul, 2SM
Subjects: COVID-19, QLD, Federal Opposition's policy agenda, Industrial relations, Insecure work, Secure Australian Jobs Plan, COVID-19 vaccine advertisements
Senator For the Northern Territory Malarndirri McCarthy
11 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Leila McKinnon, Today Show
Subjects: COVID-19, Hotel quarantine, Australian Open, UK, Hospitals, Diversity, Howard Springs, Bushfires
ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury
11 FEB: Transcript of Budget Reply Speech, Canberra
Subjects: Climate emergency, COVID-19 vaccine roll-out, Job creation, Light Rail, Sustainable Household Scheme, Housing, Social inclusion
ACT Leader of the Opposition Elizabeth Lee
11 FEB: Transcript of Budget Address-in-Reply, Canberra
Subjects: Health System, Rates, Safe schools, Canberra hospitals, Tourism sector, Poverty Taskforce, Territory election, Kyoto Protocol, Canberra universities
Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt
10 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Karl Stefanovic & Leila McKinnon, The Today Show
Subjects: Hotel quarantine outbreak, WHO Investigation, COVID-19 origins
Deputy Leader of the Australian Labor Party Richard Marles
10 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Tom Connell, Sky News
Subjects: COVID-19, ExxonMobil refinery closure, Secure work, Employment, World Health Organisation COVID-19 report, PM, Geelong
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Catherine King and Member for Macnamara Josh Burns
10 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Melbourne
Subjects: COVID-19, Infrastructure, Commuter carparks, ExxonMobil refinery closure, Crown Casino, World Health Organisation COVID-19 report
Labor Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm
10 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Paul Culliver, ABC Capricornia
Subjects: Opposition IR proposal, Regional Australia, Employment, Australians stranded overseas, Hotel quarantine
Shadow Minister for Health Mark Butler
09 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Tom Connell, Sky News Newsday
Subjects: Vaccine rollout, Therapeutic Goods Administration, South African COVID-19 strain, Preventing transmission, Pfizer and AstraZeneca, Public health advice
Liberal Senator for New South Wales Andrew Bragg
09 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Tom Connell, Sky News
Subjects: Superannuation, Coronavirus, Debt and mortgages, Super, Net Zero, Emissions targets
Prime Minister Scott Morrison
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with John Laws, 2SM
Subjects: COVID-19, Public health, Member for Hughes, Vaccine rollout, Medical advice, Pharmacists, Hospitals, Chief Medical Officer, Social media, Therapeutic Goods Administration
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Minister for Defence Industry Linda Price and Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds
08 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview at BAE Systems, Williamtown, NSW
Subjects: Defence industry, Manufacturing, Defence equipment, Aircraft capability, Coronavirus, Quarantine time
Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Ben Fordham, 2GB Breakfast
Subjects: COVID-19, Public health, Vaccine rollout, Vaccine administration training, State border restrictions, West Australian Premier
Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Stuart Robert
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Fran Kelly, RN Breakfast, ABC Radio National
Subjects: COVID-19, Public health, Immunisation History Statements, Australian Immunisation Register, COVID-19 vaccine, Hotel quarantine, QLD
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Murray Jones, 4CA Cairns
Subjects: Cairns, Federal response to COVID- 19, Public health, Tourism industry, QLD, JobKeeper, Federal election, Regional Jobs Taskforce
Shadow Minister for Families and Social Services Linda Burney
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC Afternoon
Subjects: Vaccine certificates, Racism, Australian sport, COVID-19
Shadow Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Peter Stefanovic, Sky News First Edition
Subjects: COVID-19, News Media & Digital Platforms Mandatory Bargaining Code, Hotel quarantine, Public health, Net zero emissions by 2050, Energy
Labor Senator for New South Wales Tim Ayres
08 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Monte Irvine, 2NZ Inverell
Subjects: Vaccine rollout, COVID-19, Conspiracy theories, Member for Hughes, Economic recovery, Public health, Rural & regional healthcare access
Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Stuart Robert
07 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Gold Coast
Subjects: Immunisation History Statements, Australian Immunisation Register, Rollout of COVID-19 vaccine, QLD, State borders, Hotel quarantine
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese and Senator for Queensland Nita Green
07 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Cairns
Subjects: Tourism industry, JobKeeper, JobSeeker, COVID-19, International borders, Vaccination, Net zero emissions by 2050, Agriculture
Deputy Leader of the Opposition Richard Marles
07 FEB: Transcript of Interview with David Speers, Insiders
Subjects: COVID-19, Vaccine, Hotel quarantine, Science, Industrial relations, Net zero emissions by 2050, Chief Health Officer, Victoria
Member for Higgins Katie Allen and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Andrew Giles
06 FEB: Transcript of Interview on ABC News Breakfast
Subjects: COVID-19, Public health, Hotel quarantine, Vaccine rollout, Hospitals, QLD, Family, Repatriation flights, Financial support
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese and Shadow Minister for the Environment and Water Terri Butler
06 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Brisbane
Subjects: COVID-19, QLD, Hotel quarantine, Industrial relations, State borders, Tourism industry, Net zero emissions by 2050, New Acland mine
Prime Minister Scott Morrison
05 FEB: Transcript of Press Conference, Australian Parliament House, ACT
Subjects: National Cabinet, WA bushfires, TGA approvals, Coronavirus, COVID-19, Vaccine rollout, Hotel quarantine, New strains, China
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
05 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Melbourne Indigenous Transition School, Melbourne
Subjects: MITS funding, National Cabinet, Hotel quarantine, PNG, Media bargaining code, Electric cars, COVID-19
Minister for Finance Simon Birmingham
05 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Laura Jayes, Sky News Live, AM Agenda
Subjects: COVID-19, Finance, Public health, Vaccine, Australian Defence Force, Medical facilities, Commonwealth Medical Offices
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese and Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health Emma McBride
05 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Terrigal
Subjects: PEP 11, Oil & gas drilling, Climate change, Electric vehicles, Net zero emissions by 2050, Hotel quarantine, Save Our Coast
Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen
04 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC RN Drive
Subjects: United States climate policy, Coal mining, Net zero emissions by 2050, Clean Energy Fund, Pfizer vaccine, Hotel quarantine
Return to top
Reports
Legalising Mitochondrial Donation in Australia - Public Consultation Paper
Department of Health
Mitochondria are small DNA-containing structures in human cells. They produce 90 per cent of the energy that the body needs to function and are inherited almost exclusively through the maternal line (passed from a mother to her children) through the mitochondria present in the mother's egg cells. Mitochondrial disease refers to a group of inherited conditions that can significantly lower an individual's health and life expectancy, and may be fatal.
Download
Eye health
Australian Institute of Health & Welfare (AIHW)
In 2017-18, long-term vision disorders affected 93% of people aged 65 and over. Over 13 million Australians had one or more chronic (long-term) eye conditions in 2017-18. About 411,000 Australians (1.7% of the population) had cataract and 244,000 (1.0%) had macular degeneration in 2017-18. Females (59%) experienced a higher prevalence of long-term vision disorders than males (51%) in 2017-18.
Download
Global Attitudes on a Covid-19 Vaccine
Ipsos
The survey was conducted by Ipsos on its Global Advisor online platform, January 28-31, 2021 among adults 18-74 years of age in Canada, and South Africa, and the United States, and 16-74 in Australia, Brazil, China (mainland), France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, South Korea, Spain, and the United Kingdom. This document includes comparisons with data from a similar survey conducted on the Ipsos Global Advisor platform, December 17-20, 2020 with approximately 1,000 individuals in each of Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Spain, the U.K., and the U.S., and approximately 500 individuals in Mexico, Russia, and South Africa.
Download
ACT: Budget 2020-21 - Budget Statements C - ACT Health Directorate, Canberra Health Services, ACT Local Hospital Network
The ACT Treasury
Download
Return to top
Hansards
Federal
05 FEB 2021: REPS COMMITTEE HANSARD: Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care & Sport - Approval processes for new drugs & novel medical technologies in Australia - Canberra
NSW
11 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - COVID-19 Testing Facility
10 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Coogee Electorate Student Mental Health Services
10 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Opal Health Care, Bossley Park
10 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Talking Mental Health Program
10 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Canterbury Hospital
09 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Question Time - COVID-19 Vaccination
09 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Documents - NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014
09 FEB 2021: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Bulli Hospital Doctors
Return to top
Court Cases
National Disability Insurance Scheme Division - TYKL and National Disability Insurance Agency [2021] AATA 135
08 FEB: Catchwords: National Disability Insurance Scheme - DOD 02 FEB 2021
Download
Return to top
New Regulations
Federal
Therapeutic Goods (Excluded Goods) Amendment (Vaping Devices) Determination 2021
Legislative Instrument - F2021L00112
The Therapeutic Goods (Excluded Goods) Amendment (Vaping Devices) Determination 2021 ('the Amendment Determination') is made under section 7AA of the Act. The Amendment Determination gives effect to existing regulatory arrangements for vaping devices, by clarifying that the only vaping devices regulated as therapeutic goods in Australia are those devices intended by their supplier to be used exclusively for the vaporisation and administration of a medicine, including vaporiser nicotine.
Explanatory Statement
Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Basic Subsidy Amount - COVID-19 Support) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2021L00111
The purpose of the Amending Determination is to amend the Subsidy, Fees and Payments Determination to provide that aged care subsidy in relation to care recipients on extended hospital leave will not be reduced during the period 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 (inclusive).
Explanatory Statement
Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2021 - Subsection 333-20(1)
Legislative Instrument - F2021L00110
The Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2021 amends the Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Rules 2018 to update the information, relating to the treatment received by insured persons, that private health insurers must give to the Secretary of the Department of Health (the Department) under subsection 172-10(1) of the Act.
Explanatory Statement
Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2021
Legislative Instrument - F2021L00109
The Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2021 (the Amendment Rules) amends the Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Rules 2018 (the Rules) to update the kinds of statistical information to be provided by hospitals to private health insurers and by private hospitals to the Department of Health.
Explanatory Statement
Western Australia
12 FEB 2021: WA, COOK: Health - Health Services Act 2016 - Health Services (Health Service Provider Land) Amendment Order 2021 - SL 2021/23
12 FEB 2021: WA, COOK: Health - Health Services Act 2016 - Health Services (Health Service Providers) Amendment Order 2021 - SL 2021/22
09 FEB 2021: WA, COOK: Health Services (Fees and Charges) Amendment Order 2021 - Health Services Act 2016 - SL 2021/20
Return to top
Proclamations
None this edition.
Return to top
Gazette Notices
New South Wales
11 FEB 2021: NSW GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. 50: Extraordinary Gazette - Public Health Act 2010 - Section 7 - Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 7) Amendment (No 6) Order 2021
11 FEB 2021: NSW GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. 50: Extraordinary Gazette - Public Health Act 2010 - Section 7 - Public Health (COVID-19 Mandatory Face Coverings) Amendment (No 4) Order 2021
05 FEB 2021: NSW GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. 48: Extraordinary Gazette - Public Health Act 2010 - Section 7 - Public Health (COVID-19 Interstate Travellers) Order 2021
05 FEB 2021: NSW GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. 42: Extraordinary Gazette - Mental Health Act 2007 - Section 109 - Declaration of Mental Health Facility
Western Australia
12 FEB 2021: WA GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: General Gazette No. 32 - Health
09 FEB 2021: WA GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: General Gazette No. 29 - Health - Health Services Act 2016 - Health Services (Fees and Charges) Amendment Order 2021 - SL 2021/20
Return to top
Consolidated Legislation
Life Insurance Act 1995
Consolidated Legislation - C2021C00077
Act No. 4 of 1995 as amended, taking into account amendments up to Financial Sector Reform (Hayne Royal Commission Response) Act 2020 An Act relating to life insurance, and for related purposes.
Download
National Health (Price and Special Patient Contribution) Determination 2010 (PB 109 of 2010)
Legislative Instrument Compilation- F2021C00130
PB 109 of 2010 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Price and Special Patient Contribution) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 1).
Download
National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement 2011 (PB 79 of 2011)
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00126
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. 1).
Download
Health Insurance (General Medical Services Table) Regulations (No. 2) 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00125
Regulations as amended.
Download
Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical - Expansion of GP and Allied Health Mental Health Services) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00123
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical - Expansion of GP and Allied Health Mental Health Services and Chronic Disease Management) Amendment Determination 2020.
Download
National Health (Continued Dispensing - Emergency Measures) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00119
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Continued Dispensing - Emergency Measures) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 1) (PB 3 of 2021).
Download
Commonwealth price (Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by approved pharmacists) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00118
PB 66 of 2020 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Commonwealth Price (Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by approved pharmacists) Amendment Determination 2020 (PB 122 of 2020).
Download
National Health (Listed drugs on F1 or F2) Determination 2010 (PB 93 of 2010)
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00117
PB 93 of 2010 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Listed drugs on F1 or F2) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 1) (PB 6 of 2021).
Download
National Health (Pharmaceutical benefits-early supply) Instrument 2015 (PB 120 of 2015)
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00116
PB 120 of 2015 Other as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Pharmaceutical benefits - early supply) Amendment Instrument 2021 (No. 1) (PB 2 of 2021).
Download
National Health (Originator Brand) Determination 2015 (PB 100 of 2015)
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2021C00114
PB 100 of 2015 Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Originator Brand) Amendment Determination 2021 (No. 1) (PB 7 of 2021).
Download
Return to top
New Bills
ACT
COVID-19 Emergency Response Legislation Amendment Bill 2020 (No 3) - LA 2R debate, passed 10/2, awaiting notification
Drugs Of Dependence (Personal Use) Amendment Bill 2021 - LA intro, 1R, 2R 11/2
Return to top
New Acts
None this edition.
Return to top
|
