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 June
Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) statement on positive coronavirus test in person who attended protest in Victoria
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) noted the positive coronavirus test in a person who attended the large protest in Victoria last week. It will take some days to determine whether other people have been infected. AHPPC noted Victoria's advice that a significant investigation to determine the source of the infection and identify close contacts is underway. AHPPC emphasises once more the very high risk environment of a protest, with large numbers of people closely gathering and challenges in identifying all contacts. AHPPC again urges the Australian community to not participate in mass gatherings.
Download
NPS MedicineWise partners with National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce
NPS MedicineWise has joined a group of leading health bodies keeping clinicians up to date with the latest evidence through the provision of recommendations and living guidelines for COVID-19. Executive Director of the Taskforce Associate Professor Julian Elliott said the Taskforce has created a single source of truth for clinicians working to provide the best possible care for Australians during this pandemic. 'To help clinicians keep up with the latest evidence, we've brought together 28 national peak clinical bodies to speak with one voice and provide evidence-based guidelines that are up to date with the latest research,' said A/Prof Elliott.
Download
NSW: Further restrictions to ease on Saturday
NSW will ease further restrictions with food courts allowed to reopen, the number of people allowed to visit homes increased from 5 to 20, and the number of people allowed to gather outdoors increased from 10 to 20. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said these changes are another step towards seeing NSW reopen in a COVID-safe way. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said every decision the Government is making in relation to easing restrictions is informed by health advice.
Download
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Wednesday 10 June 2020, there have been no new cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 9 June, meaning the total number of cases in NSW remains 3,117. There were 9,746 tests carried out in the reporting period, compared with 5,703 in the previous 24 hours. More than 591,000 COVID 19 tests have been carried out in NSW. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
Download
10 June
Care survey highlights COVID-19 protections, financial impacts and concerns over Government support
A national survey by Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) shows the extensive infection control measures actioned by aged care providers and the impact of additional costs to combat COVID- 19, while highlighting some dissatisfaction with Government support. 'Aged care staff and providers have delivered exceptional care, protecting the most vulnerable while under great pressure,' LASA CEO Sean Rooney said. 'The impact on the workforce and finances has been considerable but the dedication to the safety of older Australians continues unabated. Residential and home care providers reported that implementing staff training, visitor screening, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning costs, enhanced protections and changed visitation arrangements, roster changes and leave management has placed unbudgeted demands on their services.'
Download
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Tuesday 9 June 2020, there have been three new cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 8 June, bringing the total number of cases in NSW to 3,117. All three of the new cases are travellers in hotel quarantine. There were 5,703 tests carried out in the reporting period, compared with 4,743 in the previous 24 hours. Nearly 582,000 COVID 19 tests have been carried out in NSW. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
Download
WA: $5m for Western Australia to lead ground-breaking COVID-19 research
The WA State Government has committed $5 million for 34 university-led projects that could see Western Australian researchers play a leading role in the global fight against COVID-19, said WA Minister for Health Roger Cook. The funding has been provided to the State's five universities to undertake or boost their COVID-19 research that contributes to protecting Western Australians, said WA Treasurer Ben Wyatt. The diverse range of projects to be funded will contribute to the global understanding, treatment and management of COVID-19, said WA Minister for Science Dave Kelly.
Download
9 June
QLD: COVID-19 - Tue Jun 9: Jobs support / economic recovery / no new cases
Queensland businesses and communities are benefiting from employment support loans, payroll tax relief, manufacturing programs and local works funding to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, as Queensland records another day of no new cases. There are three active cases, 1051 recovered and a total of 1062. Speaking in Mackay, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said more than $800 million has been approved to businesses across the state to maintain staff and retain operations through COVID-19, helping to support more than 68,000 Queensland jobs.
Download
QLD: COVID Safe plans for spectators at stadiums
The Chief Health Officer is considering comprehensive site specific plans for the staged return of spectators to major sporting venues that were recently presented to the government, said Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health Steven Miles. The Chief Health Officer is working through these COVID safe plans and we look forward to seeing people back watching sport when it is safe. The stadium plans will apply to all sports that play in them, including the NRL and AFL.
Download
8 June
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Sunday 7 June 2020, there have been three new cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 6 June, bringing the total number of cases in NSW remains at 3,112. There were 5,950 tests carried out in the reporting period, compared with 9,207 in the previous 24 hours. More than 571,000 COVID 19 tests have been carried out in NSW. The NSW Department of Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
Download
5 June
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
05 JUN: As at 8pm Thursday 4 June 2020, there have been four new cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 3 June, meaning the total number of cases in NSW is 3,110. For the first time in many weeks, no patients are being treated in ICU for COVID-19, an excellent result. There were 10,171 tests carried out in the reporting period, compared with 11,365 in the previous 24 hours. . NSW Health is again urging anyone feeling unwell - even with the mildest of symptoms such as a runny nose or scratchy throat - to come forward and get tested, so cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
Download
Return to top
Aged Care
10 June
Care survey highlights COVID-19 protections, financial impacts and concerns over Government support
A national survey by Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) shows the extensive infection control measures actioned by aged care providers and the impact of additional costs to combat COVID- 19, while highlighting some dissatisfaction with Government support. 'Aged care staff and providers have delivered exceptional care, protecting the most vulnerable while under great pressure,' LASA CEO Sean Rooney said. 'The impact on the workforce and finances has been considerable but the dedication to the safety of older Australians continues unabated. Residential and home care providers reported that implementing staff training, visitor screening, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning costs, enhanced protections and changed visitation arrangements, roster changes and leave management has placed unbudgeted demands on their services.'
Download
6 June
New residential aged care facility for Wantirna
The new Wantirna residential aged care facility is a step closer to being built with the Government commencing the tender phase to appoint a builder. The 120-bed, multi-level state-of-the-art aged care facility will provide the best care for older Victorians and is designed to be dementia-friendly for Victorians with complex care needs, said Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan and Member for Bayswater Jackson Taylor.
Download
Return to top
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety
10 June
Public submissions to close on 31 July 2020
The Royal Commissioners announced that the deadline for general submissions to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety will be at the close of business on Friday, 31 July 2020. This means that the Royal Commissioners will continue to receive submissions for a month longer than the current deadline. As at 5 June 2020, more than 8600 submissions had been received since the initial call for submissions was announced in December 2018. The Commission published its first selection of general submissions received from members of the public and organisations on its website.
Download
Return to top
Allied Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Children's Health
9 June
$24 million funding boost for additional mental health care at headspace
The Government is investing $24.2 million to reduce wait times - fast tracking access to mental health services for young people aged 12-25 seeking headspace appointments, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. Mental health and suicide prevention remains one of our Government's highest priorities. One in four young Australians are affected by a mental health illness every year, and as they battle COVID-19 it's more important than ever that they prioritise mental health. The disruption to normal life caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the required restrictions has had profound impacts on young Australians, said Minister for Youth Richard Colbeck.
Download
Return to top
Clinical Governance
10 June
WTO reaffirms Australia's tobacco plain packaging measure
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reaffirmed its earlier decision that Australia's tobacco plain packaging is a legitimate policy measure that is making a meaningful contribution to public health. The decision by the WTO Appellate Body last night rejected the appeals brought in 2018 by the Dominican Republic and Honduras and confirmed earlier findings that Australia's tobacco plain packaging measure was consistent with WTO rules. Minister for Health Greg Hunt said the decision reaffirmed the Government's ability to take action to protect Australians' health. Minister for Trade Simon Birmingham said the WTO decision ended the litigation proceedings against Australia's plain packaging laws.
Download
Return to top
Construction and Health Infrastructure
None this edition.
Return to top
Dental
11 June
ADAVB welcomes extension of National Partnership Agreement but warns system will be further strained
The Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB) welcomed the announcement by the Government to extend the National Partnership Agreement on Adult Public Dental Service to support the states and territories in delivering public dental services. The one-year extension to the National Partnership Agreement will provide $107.8 million, which will enable around 180,000 additional public dental patients to receive care across Australia. 'The Australian Dental Association has been calling for a more sustainable model for public dental care to ensure that vulnerable patients don't continue to slip through the cracks,' said Dr Gitika Sanghvi, ADAVB President.
Download
10 June
Extending the national partnership agreement on public dental services
The Government is extending the National Partnership Agreement on Adult Public Dental Service to support the states and territories in delivering public dental services, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. The $107.8 million one-year extension to the National Partnership Agreement will provide services to around 180,000 additional public dental patients across Australia. This brings the total investment through the National Partnership Agreement to $458 million since it commenced on 1 January 2017, providing services to around 763,000 public dental patients. In addition to the National Partnership Agreement, the Government supports the provision of dental services through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Download
Funding uncertainty for public dental care over-for now
'Funding uncertainty for public dental care is over, at least for now, with the Government announcement that the National Partnership Agreement on dental funding has been extended for 12 months,' said the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA). 'While this extension is welcome, can Minister Hunt assure Australians who rely on public dental services that we won't be facing the same uncertainty yet again this time next year? Funding announcements that are delayed until less than 3 weeks before current funding expires represent extremely poor practice.'
Download
Three weeks until dental is ditched for our most vulnerable Australians
On June 30 the Government is set to take away dental services from 580,000 Australians with the expiration of the National Partnership Agreement on Public Dental Services, said Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen. Greg Hunt and Scott Morrison must sign a new NPA with the states as a matter of urgency and guarantee full funding for another three and a half years. There should be no cuts to funding or eligibility, and no partial extensions. Australians deserve a proper and fair guarantee on these services.
Download
Dental agreement extension leaves 763,000 patients asking what's next
It is good that the Government has finally announced that it will extend the National Partnership Agreement on Public Dental Services, after months of calls from Labor, said Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen. However it is very disappointing this extension is for just one year. Labor consistently urged the Government to ensure these services do not cease on 30 June. But a one year extension is not enough for the vulnerable Australians who rely on public dental services for care. By the Government's own numbers the NPA has provided services to 763,000 Australians since 1 January 2017.
Download
Return to top
Disabilities
9 June
Major win for the deaf community
For the first time, the National 2021 Census will refer to 'Auslan' as a language option. This is a major win for the Deaf Community in their struggle to have Auslan users recognised in the population. Deaf Australia has been working with the Australian Bureau of Statistics since 2007 to address the issue of adding 'Auslan' as one of the language options. Deaf Australia had attempted to amend the 2011 and 2016 Censuses without success. The Deaf Community conducted massive campaigns for its members to write down 'Auslan' in the 'If other, please write' option in both Censuses.
Download
8 June
New banning powers strengthen protections for NDIS participants
The Government will expand the powers of the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissioner to ban unsuitable providers and workers from working with National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants, regardless of whether they are active in the sector or not. Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Stuart Robert said that the NDIS Amendment (Strengthening Banning Orders) Bill 2020, which will be introduced in Parliament this coming sitting, will further reinforce protections in the NDIS legislation for participants of the NDIS.
Download
Return to top
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
None this edition.
Return to top
E-Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Education and Training
None this edition.
Return to top
Funding
12 June
The Seventh Community Pharmacy Agreement
The Seventh Community Pharmacy Agreement was signed to provide certainty and stability for Australia's 5,800 community pharmacies, and ensures the delivery of world class pharmacy services to Australian patients. The National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, George Tambassis, said: 'This is an Agreement for the times - negotiated over 12 months between the Commonwealth and the Pharmacy Guild, with the backdrop in 2020 of the COVID-19 pandemic. 'The Pharmacy Guild thanks the Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, and the Department of Health for reaching this Agreement in the interests of all Australian patients who rely on their local pharmacy for medicines, advice and professional pharmacy services,' Mr Tambassis said.
Download
11 June
Sixth Community Pharmacy Agreement outcomes
A spokesperson for the Pharmacy Guild of Australia said: 'In a little under three weeks, the Sixth Community Pharmacy Agreement will expire, making it a good time to consider some of the aggregate outcomes from this Agreement between the Commonwealth and the Pharmacy Guild, signed in May 2015. While precise outcomes may not be published until some months after the Agreement ends on June 30, it is possible to reach fairly solid estimates about the aggregate expenditure under the Agreement. Overall, combining dispensing remuneration, professional pharmacy programs, NDSS funding, wholesaler mark-up and the Community Service Obligation funding for wholesalers, the Government investment in 6CPA over five years reached $16.8 billion.'
Download
10 June
More funding for mental health services for Wagga Wagga's headspace
Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack has welcomed additional mental health care funding for Wagga Wagga's headspace service. The Government is investing $24.2 million across the country to reduce wait times to mental health services, for young people aged 12 to 25 years old, seeking headspace appointments. Mr McCormack said mental health and suicide prevention was one of the Government's highest priorities. 'Headspace plays an important role in addressing and raising awareness of mental health in the local community,' Mr McCormack said.
Download
Funding uncertainty for public dental care over-for now
'Funding uncertainty for public dental care is over, at least for now, with the Government announcement that the National Partnership Agreement on dental funding has been extended for 12 months,' said the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA). 'While this extension is welcome, can Minister Hunt assure Australians who rely on public dental services that we won't be facing the same uncertainty yet again this time next year? Funding announcements that are delayed until less than 3 weeks before current funding expires represent extremely poor practice.'
Download
QLD: Specialist breast care nurses funding secured in Queensland
Vital physical and emotional support for Queenslanders with breast cancer will continue as $2.4 million in funding for seven specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses is secured thanks to the Government. Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles announced the funding of $830,164 a year for three years that will support seven of the McGrath Foundation's 22 specialist nurses working across the state. 'Breast cancer is estimated to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, affecting 1 in 7 women, and as incidences increase so too does the need for these specialist nurses,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
Download
Return to top
Health Professionals
11 June
QLD: CSG to keep regional medical service aloft
Queensland's coal seam gas industry announced a five-year funding extension for an aeromedical rescue service that has protected southern Queensland since 2011. Queensland Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham congratulated CSG proponents Santos, Shell's QGC business, Origin and Arrow Energy for their commitment to keeping the Surat Gas Aero-Medical Service airborne until at least 2025. 'As we emerge from the COVID-19 crisis, a big part of our economic plan Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs will be our traditional strengths like the resources sector,' he said. 'The CSG-LNG industry continues to deliver thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in business to Queenslanders here in the south-west.'
Download
10 June
Medical profession recognised in honours list
Almost three dozen Australian Medical Association (AMA) members have been recognised in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours list for their service to medicine, public health, education, and the Australian community. AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said the doctors have been honoured for their cradle-to-grave care of the Australian community. 'These doctors represent the finest aspects of the medical profession - from dedicated family doctors across the nation, to those fighting cancer in all its forms, and those looking after our servicemen and women and veterans,' Dr Bartone said.
Download
QLD: Specialist breast care nurses funding secured in Queensland
Vital physical and emotional support for Queenslanders with breast cancer will continue as $2.4 million in funding for seven specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses is secured thanks to the Government. Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles announced the funding of $830,164 a year for three years that will support seven of the McGrath Foundation's 22 specialist nurses working across the state. 'Breast cancer is estimated to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, affecting 1 in 7 women, and as incidences increase so too does the need for these specialist nurses,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
Download
Return to top
Hospitals
8 June
QLD: New health era on way for Charters Towers
Queensland Katter's Australian Party (KAP) Leader and Member for Traeger Robbie Katter has called for both the State and Federal Government to fast-track funding to the Charters Towers Hospital for a satellite dialysis unit, CT scanner and the refurbishment of the Eventide Aged Care Facility. All three works have been identified as 'market-ready' priority projects as part of the Townsville Hospital and Health Service's (THHS) COVID-19 Recovery - Proposed Infrastructure Program. The CT scanner installation would cost around $3.5 million, the establishment of the dialysis unit around $2 million and the work on Eventide about $2.6 million. If funded, all three projects could be completed by the end of 2021.
Download
Return to top
Insurance
None this edition.
Return to top
Medicare
None this edition.
Return to top
Men's Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Mental Health
11 June
$11.5 million in mental health grants to support emergency services workers affected by the bushfires
The Government is investing $11.5 million in mental health services to support emergency services workers and their families impacted by the unprecedented bushfire disaster of 2019-20. The funding is part of more than $100 million committed by the Government towards mental health support for emergency personnel, individuals and communities impacted by the Black Summer bushfires. Minister for Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud said ensuring quality mental health care and support for those impacted by the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires is a priority for the Government.
Download
10 June
More funding for mental health services for Wagga Wagga's headspace
Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack has welcomed additional mental health care funding for Wagga Wagga's headspace service. The Government is investing $24.2 million across the country to reduce wait times to mental health services, for young people aged 12 to 25 years old, seeking headspace appointments. Mr McCormack said mental health and suicide prevention was one of the Government's highest priorities. 'Headspace plays an important role in addressing and raising awareness of mental health in the local community,' Mr McCormack said.
Download
NSW: Groundbreaking first responder and mental health collaboration boosted by $6 million investment
First responders attending incidents with people in a mental health emergency are set to benefit from a $6.1 million investment by the NSW State Government to employ 36 specialist mental health clinicians across 10 Police Area Commands and Districts. NSW Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor and NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott announced the expansion of the Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (PACER) pilot program. 'This ground breaking collaboration embeds mental health experts with first responders to support them to appropriately recognise, assess, and respond to mental health emergencies live at the scene,' Mrs Taylor said.
Download
9 June
$24 million funding boost for additional mental health care at headspace
The Government is investing $24.2 million to reduce wait times - fast tracking access to mental health services for young people aged 12-25 seeking headspace appointments, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. Mental health and suicide prevention remains one of our Government's highest priorities. One in four young Australians are affected by a mental health illness every year, and as they battle COVID-19 it's more important than ever that they prioritise mental health. The disruption to normal life caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the required restrictions has had profound impacts on young Australians, said Minister for Youth Richard Colbeck.
Download
New free, confidential mental health counselling service for doctors and medical students
Doctors and medical students around Australia now have access to free, confidential telehealth mental health services through the new Drs4Drs Support Service, which has been established by Doctors' Health Services Limited (DrHS). 'While we encourage all doctors and medical students to have their own GP as their first point of contact for any health problem, we know that some don't have a regular GP, may be geographically isolated, or are reluctant for many reasons to discuss mental health concerns with others,' Australia Medical Association (AMA) President and DrHS Board member, Dr Tony Bartone, said.
Download
WA: $56 million investment to provide mental health, alcohol and other drug support to at-risk and vulnerable groups
The WA State Government is investing $56 million to community mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) services, as part of their plan to increase community support and treatment for Western Australians, said WA Deputy Premier Roger Cook. The significant investment is in line with the recommendations of the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan and the Minister's mental health and AOD priorities released in March 2020. This funding package for mental health and alcohol and other drug services will create new community models of care, supporting at-risk and vulnerable groups.
Download
7 June
TAS: Labor's mental health workers in schools policy needed
'With high school students heading back to school from Tuesday, Labor is again calling for mental health workers to be employed in every school,' said Tasmanian Shadow Minister for Education Josh Willie. 'Labor launched its policy more than a year ago in recognition of the need to ensure all students have access to mental health support. And there is no greater need than as students transition back to the classroom after weeks of learning from home. Many students will find the adjustment challenging and deserve full support to help them through it.'
Download
Return to top
Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
Return to top
Pharmaceuticals
11 June
Australian Public Assessment Report for Baloxavir marboxil
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) said that this AusPAR describes the application by Roche Products Pty Limited (the sponsor) to register Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil) 20 mg and 40 mg film coated tablets for the following proposed indication:
- Xofluza is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients aged 12 and above who have been symptomatic for no more than 48 hours.
- Xofluza is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients aged 12 and above who have been symptomatic for no more than 48 hours, and are at high risk of developing influenza complications.
Download
Sixth Community Pharmacy Agreement outcomes
A spokesperson for the Pharmacy Guild of Australia said: 'In a little under three weeks, the Sixth Community Pharmacy Agreement will expire, making it a good time to consider some of the aggregate outcomes from this Agreement between the Commonwealth and the Pharmacy Guild, signed in May 2015. While precise outcomes may not be published until some months after the Agreement ends on June 30, it is possible to reach fairly solid estimates about the aggregate expenditure under the Agreement. Overall, combining dispensing remuneration, professional pharmacy programs, NDSS funding, wholesaler mark-up and the Community Service Obligation funding for wholesalers, the Government investment in 6CPA over five years reached $16.8 billion.'
Download
10 June
Update to listed medicine ingredients in June 2020
A total of 17 changes have been made in the updated Determination, said the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA). These changes include:
- 8 new and 2 variations of ingredients, following evaluation;
- removal of expired transition period provisions for Andrographis paniculata; and
- clarification of requirements for 4 ingredients for consistency with other legislative instruments.
- a minor change to the ingredient 'hydrolysed wheat protein' for consistency with other gluten-containing ingredients and applicable standards relating to medicine labelling.
- removal of 1 ingredient as a synonym of an existing ingredient.
Download
COVID-19 delays to adoption of TGO 91 labels
The transition period from TGO 69 to TGO 91 is due to expire on 1 September 2020, said the TGA. However, due to the pressures of COVID-19, some prescription medicine manufacturers are experiencing difficulty introducing TGO 91 assessed labels into their manufacturing process. In response, the TGA have implemented a streamlined section 14 process. The new s14 process will provide a decision within 5 days of the application fee being paid and will be available to sponsors from 1 July 2020. To be eligible for the new process, the sponsor must:
- Currently be using labels that have been assessed to be compliant with TGO 69.
Download
Notice of interim decisions made under Regulation 42ZCZN of the Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990
This web publication constitutes a notice for the purposes of regulation 42ZCZP of the Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990 (the Regulations), said the TGA. In accordance with regulation 42ZCZP, this notice sets out:
- the interim decisions made by a delegate of the Secretary under regulation 42ZCZN in relation to proposed amendments to the current Poisons Standard which were referred to an expert advisory committee under subdivision 3D.2 of the Regulations in March 2020;
- the proposed date of effect of the proposed amendments (in circumstances where the interim decision proposes an amendment to the current Poisons Standard).
Download
Serious Shortage Medicine Substitution Notices
The Government is implementing changes to allow community pharmacists to substitute specific medicines without prior approval from the prescribing doctor in certain situations where a medicine is unavailable at the time of dispensing, said the TGA. These changes will relieve pressure on doctors and allow patients to receive their medicines from their pharmacist without delay. The changes will allow a pharmacist to dispense different strengths of a product (such as two 20 mg tablets in place of a 40 mg tablet) or a different dose form of the same medicine (such as a capsule instead of a tablet).
Download
Notification of decision on application DIR 171 from Clinical Network Services (CNS) Pty Ltd for a clinical trial of genetically modified influenza vaccine
The Regulator has issued licence DIR 171 to Clinical Network Services (CNS) Pty Ltd, authorising a clinical trial of a live genetically modified (GM) vaccine for protection of people against Influenza virus infection, said the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR). The Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) and the licence were finalised taking into account input received during consultation with the public, State and Territory governments, Australian Government agencies, the Minister for the Environment, the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee and local councils. The Regulator thanks submitters for their contributions.
Download
Return to top
Research
11 June
Virtual connections can combat loneliness
Researchers from The Australian National University (ANU) said that even just one meaningful interaction, virtual or face-to-face, can have lasting mental health benefits. 'Data has shown us that loneliness is a killer - it can be as harmful as heavy smoking for our health,' said Dr Tegan Cruwys, from ANU Research School of Psychology. 'This new research shows how community connections are a vital way to help combat loneliness. Early data from 2020, which takes in the experiences of almost 300 respondents, showed a significant increase in loneliness between early March and early April.
Download
ACT: Catchment report highlights climate challenges
The latest report on the ACT's water catchment health has highlighted the challenges posed by increasingly dry conditions. Australian Capital Territory Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman said the new report underscored how hotter and drier seasons due to climate change are negatively impacting our region's waterways 'Three reaches were found to be in 'excellent' condition, 37 were 'good', 53 were 'fair', four were 'poor', none were 'degraded' and one was too dry for too long to produce results,' Minister Gentleman said.
Download
Self in the system: a new way to be a public health 'change agent'
A research paper published recently in Public Health Research & Practice, a peer-reviewed journal of the Sax Institute, looks at an important concept in systems thinking, that of the 'self-in-the-system'. The paper, authored by Monica Bensberg, explores the idea that if a health practitioner understands the different parts of the system and their own place in it, they can better identify the relationships they need to foster in order to effect change. This is key for people working in prevention, because usually they have very little authority to instigate change by themselves.
Download
Impact of bushfire smoke 'severely underestimated', study finds
Over 60% of people in smoke-affected areas experience health symptoms during times of bushfire, according to a new paper published in the Sax Institute's PHRP health journal. The Australian study is the first of its kind to gauge the effects of bushfire smoke that often go unreported because they don't involve emergency presentations. 'Many of the expected symptoms of bushfire smoke are mild, such as coughing, irritated eyes and throat,' explained lead author Dr Zachary Howard, a postdoctoral researcher with NSW Health. 'Most people probably don't see a doctor for those symptoms, but that doesn't mean these experiences didn't happen.'
Download
10 June
Notification of decision on application DIR 171 from Clinical Network Services (CNS) Pty Ltd for a clinical trial of genetically modified influenza vaccine
The Regulator has issued licence DIR 171 to Clinical Network Services (CNS) Pty Ltd, authorising a clinical trial of a live genetically modified (GM) vaccine for protection of people against Influenza virus infection, said the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR). The Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) and the licence were finalised taking into account input received during consultation with the public, State and Territory governments, Australian Government agencies, the Minister for the Environment, the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee and local councils. The Regulator thanks submitters for their contributions.
Download
8 June
Rates of intravenous iron therapy increase five-fold
The number of Australian women of reproductive age receiving intravenous iron treatment has increased five-fold since 2013, according to research published by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA). Iron deficiency anaemia, which affects 14-22% of women of reproductive age is usually treated with oral iron supplementation, but intravenous (IV) iron therapy is sometimes preferred 'because of gastrointestinal effects, low patient adherence, and the delayed effect of oral iron therapy', according to the researchers.
Download
Vitamin D deficiency testing on the climb again
The number of tests for vitamin D deficiency is on the rise again despite measures taken in late 2014 to restrict testing to people at particular risk of vitamin D deficiency, according to the authors of a Perspective published by the MJA. The number of tests for vitamin D deficiency in Australia rose steeply between 2000 and 2011, from 0.4 to 36.5 tests per 1000 population; the cost to Medicare increased from $1.1 million in 2000 to $95.6 million in 2010, and peaked at $151 million in 2012- 13.
Download
Return to top
Rural, Regional and Remote Health
11 June
National Cabinet must make addressing racism a priority
The National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) is calling for the National Cabinet to make addressing racism against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples a priority. The call comes as Black Lives Matters protests across the country have shone a spotlight on racism, racial profiling, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander incarceration rates and deaths in custody. 'Improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must start with combating racism and racial discrimination,' said National Rural Health Alliance CEO Dr Gabrielle O'Kane. 'The harmful health effects of racism are well-known.'
Download
9 June
New free, confidential mental health counselling service for doctors and medical students
Doctors and medical students around Australia now have access to free, confidential telehealth mental health services through the new Drs4Drs Support Service, which has been established by Doctors' Health Services Limited (DrHS). 'While we encourage all doctors and medical students to have their own GP as their first point of contact for any health problem, we know that some don't have a regular GP, may be geographically isolated, or are reluctant for many reasons to discuss mental health concerns with others,' Australia Medical Association (AMA) President and DrHS Board member, Dr Tony Bartone, said.
Download
QLD: Vital support flowing for grass roots health care providers
Eating Disorders Queensland will be among the first to benefit from the $28 million fund established to support Queensland's community-based health service groups during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a $130,000 grant. Queensland Assistant Minister for Health Nikki Boyd said it was critical to provide support to the most vulnerable in our community. Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said this extra funding was so important to ensure Queenslanders are supported through the COVID-19 pandemic and into the future. 'Since announcing the funding, 18 mental health community support services from across the state have successfully received funding totalling $2.6 million,' Minister Miles said.
Download
Return to top
Women's Health
None this edition.
Return to top
Transcripts
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd
11 JUN: Transcript of Press Conference by Deputy CMO, Professor Michael Kidd, with Peter Stefanovic, Sky News
Subjects: Coronavirus, COVID-19, Public health, Protests, Crowds, Sporting
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd
11 JUN: Transcript of Interview by Deputy CMO, Professor Michael Kidd, with Michael Rowland & Lisa Millar, ABC News Breakfast
Subjects: COVID-19, Community transmission, OECD Economic report, Protests, New Zealand
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd
11 JUN: Transcript of Press Conference by Deputy CMO, Professor Michael Kidd, with Karl Stefanovic & Allison Langdon, Today Show
Subjects: Coronavirus, COVID-19, State border closures, Travel bubble
Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese
11 JUN: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Queanbeyan
Subjects: Eden-Monaro by-election, Australia Post, State border closures, Economic recovery, COVID-19, JobKeeper, Childcare sector, Protests
Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney
11 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Ashleigh Gillon, Sky Newsday
Subjects: COVID-19, Social distancing requirements, Black Lives Matter, Protests, Indigenous deaths in custody, Public health risks, SA, NT, Self-isolation
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
10 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Leon Byner, FiveAA
Subjects: COVID-19, Childcare, Families, JobKeeper, Employment, Businesses, Jobs, Instant asset write-off, State border closures, Foreign investment, Health restrictions, Election
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham
10 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC News, Afternoon Briefing
Subjects: State borders, COVID-19, Trans-Tasman bubble, NZ, Virgin airlines, BLM protests, Racism, Chinese students, Indigenous incarceration
Minister for Health Greg Hunt
09 JUN: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Queanbeyan
Subjects: Mental health funding, Coronavirus update, Quarantine restrictions, MPs returning to Canberra who participated in BLM protests, JobKeeper and Jobseeker, New Zealand restrictions
Shadow Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher
09 JUN: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Parliament House, Canberra
Subjects: COVID-19 Committee hearing, Coronavirus, JobKeeper, Childcare industry, HomeBuilder
Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Development Amanda Rishworth
09 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Tom Connell, Sky News AM Agenda
Subjects: COVID-19, Child care, Women, Family, Education, Funding, Economy, JobKeeper wage subsidy, Workforce
Member for Berowra Julian Leeser and Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Development Amanda Rishworth
08 JUN: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC News 24 Afternoon Briefing
Subjects: COVID-19, Black Lives Matter protests, Police brutality, Indigenous Australians, Self isolation, Public gatherings, Free child care
Department of Health, Deputy Chief Medical Officer
08 JUN: Transcript of Press Conference by Deputy CMO, Dr Nick Coatsworth
Subjects: COVID-19, Motor neurone disease funding, Restrictions, Black Lives Matter protests, Self isolation, Public gatherings
Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Development Amanda Rishworth
08 JUN: Transcript of Interview, 3AW Drive
Subjects: Child care system, COVID-19, Families, Economy, Support package, JobKeeper, Child care subsidy scheme, Early childhood education
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack
07 JUN: Transcript of Press Conference, Wagga Wagga
Subjects: Aviation, Foreign investment, HomeBuilder, Protests, Travel, COVID-19, Frontline medical personnel, Air Services Australia, Chinese investors, Foreign ownership of water
Return to top
Reports
Forgone health care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Melbourne Institute and University of Melbourne
Australians experiencing high levels of financial stress and mental distress are not seeking needed health care. This study looks into what policies could help encourage greater use of necessary health care to improve wellbeing and avoid more expensive care later on.
Download
The experience of First Nations People with Disability in Australia - Issues Paper
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation of People with Disability
The experiences of Australian First Nations people with disability are a key area of inquiry for the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (the Royal Commission). Data shows that a disproportionate number of First Nations people live with a disability or some form of long term health condition. First Nations people with disability may face particular challenges in their day to day lives, including accessing education and healthcare and contact with the criminal justice and child welfare systems.
Download
COVID-19 Insights - Older people & aged care - Paper
Brotherhood of St Laurence
The COVID-19 pandemic and public health measures introduced to combat it have both exacerbated preexisting barriers and created new challenges to care, services and supports for at-risk older people. Many older people are experiencing:
- greater risk of emotional, physical, financial and other forms of abuse and neglect
- ongoing physical and mental health impacts of social distancing measures
- unmet need, due to limited interim supports for those waiting for assessment or funded care
- difficulties accessing complex care in the home (including occupational therapy, end-of-life care and social connection programs).
Download
The views of Australian judicial officers on domestic & family violence perpetrator interventions
Monash University
Key Findings include:
- Judicial officers hold mixed views on the effectiveness of perpetrator interventions, in particular men's behaviour change programs, in DFV matters.
- When a DFV case is before them, judicial officers have limited access to information about which (if any) perpetrator interventions have been previously used with a perpetrator.
- Judicial officers across Australia express a lack of knowledge about perpetrator program referral options, in relation to both the availability and nature of the programs.
Download
Return to top
Hansards
Federal
10 JUN 2020: REPS HANSARD: Private Members' Business - COVID-19: Mental Health
10 JUN 2020: REPS HANSARD: Statements by Members - Infant Mental Health Awareness Week
10 JUN 2020: REPS HANSARD: Statements by Members - COVID-19: Health Care
10 JUN 2020: REPS HANSARD: Federation Chamber - Constituency Statements - South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
04 JUN 2020: SENATE COMMITTEE HANSARD: Senate Select Committee on COVID-19 - Australian Government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic - Canberra
Australian Capital Territory
04 JUN 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - Public Health Amendment Bill 2020 - Introduction, First Reading, Debate Adjourned
04 JUN 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Motion - Health - Cultural Review Implementation
04 JUN 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Motion - Mental Health - Acute Care Capacity
04 JUN 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Canberra Hospital - Air Pollution
04 JUN 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Health - Air Pollution
04 JUN 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Health - Public Health Directions
Western Australia
10 JUN 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Geraldton Health Campus - Redevelopment
10 JUN 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Statement - Kalgoorlie Health Campus - MRI Machine
10 JUN 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Mental Health - Fly In, Fly Out Code
10 JUN 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Training and Workforce Development Review
10 JUN 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Government Revenue
Return to top
Court Cases
None this edition.
Return to top
New Regulations
Federal
Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency) (Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential) (Emergency Requirements for Remote Communities) Amendment (No. 5) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00683
The Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency) (Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential) (Emergency Requirements for Remote Communities) Amendment (No.5) Determination 2020 (the amendment Instrument) commences on 12 June 2020 and amends the Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency) (Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential) (Emergency Requirements for Remote Communities) Determination 2020 (Determination). The amendment Instrument is automatically repealed after its commencement under section 48A of the Legislation Act 2003 as it is incorporated into the Determination itself.
Explanatory Statement
PGPA Act Determination (Recovery of Compensation for Health Care and Other Services Special Account Amendment 2020)
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00682
The determination amends section 6 of the principal determination to specify that the Chief Executive Officer of Services Australia is the accountable authority responsible for the special account. The principal determination currently says that the Secretary of the Department of Human Services is responsible for the special account. However, the reference to the Department of Human Services is out of date, following recent machinery of government changes. In particular, the Department of Human Services no longer exists.
Explanatory Statement
Therapeutic Goods (Clinical Trial Inspections) Specification 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00688
The purpose of the instrument is to enable the Secretary to release therapeutic goods information about a clinical trial involving therapeutic goods (other than medical devices) to the approving authority for the trial ('the approving authority') and the ethics committee responsible for approving the procedural protocol and monitoring the conduct of the trial ('the responsible ethics committee') for the purpose of better ensuring that clinical trials are conducted in a safe and lawful manner, including in accordance with applicable ethics and good clinical practice considerations.
Explanatory Statement
Return to top
Proclamations
None this edition.
Return to top
Gazette Notices
None this edition.
Return to top
Consolidated Legislation
Health Insurance (Allied Health Services) Determination 2014
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00474
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Consequential Change to Incorporated GMST Clauses and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Determination 2020
Administered by: Health
Download
Health Insurance (Extended Medicare Safety Net) Determination 2017
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00478
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Extended Medicare Safety Net) Amendment Determination 2020
Administered by: Health
Download
Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone Attendances) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00479
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone Attendances) Amendment (Bulk-billing Requirement and New Remote Attendance Services) Determination 2020
Administered by: Health
Download
Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - Eating Disorders Treatment Plan and Psychological Treatment Services) Determination 2019
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00476
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Consequential Change to Incorporated GMST Clauses and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Determination 2020
Administered by: Health
Download
Health Insurance (Section 3C Pathology Services - COVID-19) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00477
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Section 3C Pathology Services - COVID-19) Amendment (No. 3) Determination 2020
Administered by: Health
Download
Return to top
New Bills
Federal
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Strengthening Banning Orders) Bill 2020 - Reps intro 12/6
Health Insurance Amendment (Continuing the Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner) Bill 2020 - Reps intro 12/6
Victoria
Disability Service Safeguards Amendment Bill 2020 - Assent 10/6, Act No. 17 of 2020
Return to top
New Acts
Victoria
Assisted Reproductive Treatment Amendment Act 2020
An Act to amend the Assisted Reproductive Treatment Act 2008 to remove requirements for criminal record and child protection order checks to be carried out before a woman may undergo a treatment procedure and for other purposes.
LA: 1R 19/02/20, 2R 20/02/20, 17/03/20, 19/03/20, Passed 19/03/20
LC: 1R 19/03/20, 2R 19/03/20, 04/06/20, Passed 04/06/20
Assent 10/06/20, Act No. 15 of 2020
Commencement: Subject to subsection (2), this Act comes into operation on a day or days to be proclaimed. If a provision of this Act does not come into operation before 2 September 2020, it comes into operation on that day.
Download: Bill | Explanatory Memorandum | First Reading | 2R Speech | Statement of Compatibility
Return to top
|
