01 MAY 2020: LexisNexis Capital Monitor Health eNewsletter

Friday 1 May 2020

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)

30 April

ADF and AUSMAT complete support to North West Regional Hospital
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) and an Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) concluded their support at Burnie's North West Regional Hospital (NWRH) following an outbreak of COVID-19 amongst its staff. Fifty members of the ADF and seven AUSMAT health professionals ensured the Emergency Department remained open, providing essential health services to more than 400 patients. Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said the ADF had shown its ability once again to co-ordinate and support state and territory governments when called upon. Minister for Health Greg Hunt said the swift deployment of the ADF and the AUSMAT to North West Tasmania reflected the agile nature of Australia's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Rushed introduction of electronic prescriptions will cause unnecessary chaos
The planned fast-tracking of electronic prescriptions will cause unnecessary chaos and be a backward step for patient care at exactly the wrong time, according to the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA). 'The imminent fast-tracking of the electronic prescriptions (FTEP) is part of the Government's COVID-19 National Health Plan. On behalf of the community pharmacists working in thousands of pharmacies across Australia, the Pharmacy Guild cannot support the introduction of a measure that will impose further significant disruption at a time when community pharmacies are already under intense pressures to support their patients during COVID-19' said the PGA.
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Covid-19: Easing suppression measures; implications for Thiopurine use
Two new COVID-19 articles have been published online by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA):
1. A strategic framework to ease community-wide COVID-19 suppression measures; and
2. COVID-19 and implications for thiopurine use
'We outline a strategy for a phased progression from 'suppress' to 'release' and 'restore' stages that focuses on optimising the application of our existing tools and strategies coupled with improved pathways for community engagement and multi-sectoral cooperation', said the authors.
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The COVID-19 question for World Asthma Day: Is your child's asthma under control?
'If your child needs their reliever puffer more than two days a week, their asthma may not be under control' said NPS MedicineWise. On May 5 - World Asthma Day - NPS MedicineWise is advising parents and carers that during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is especially important to have children's asthma under control and an up-to-date asthma action plan in place. 'Our advice about having an up-to-date asthma action plan applies to anyone with asthma,' said Dr Jill Thistlethwaite, GP and medical adviser at NPS MedicineWise. 'Having an up-to-date asthma action plan is very important right now'.
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Pandemic profiting: Vaccines and PPE on the dark web
The Australian National University (ANU) and the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) said vendors on the dark web are selling Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and drugs marketed as coronavirus vaccines or cures at high cost, according to a new study from The ANU. Commissioned by the Australian Institute of Criminology, Professor Rod Broadhurst, Matt Ball and Jessie Jiang from the ANU Cybercrime Observatory analysed 20 darknet markets in April to identify the scale of online underground sales of COVID-19 related products including PPE, vaccines, ventilators, anti-viral medicines and test kits.
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Aged care services are working hard to keep older Australians safe - and we need your help
Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) and Anglicare Australia said Aged care services are at the forefront of saving lives during the coronavirus pandemic, committed staff working harder than ever before to keep hundreds of thousands of vulnerable older Australians safe. 'For this, we say a heartfelt thank you to the aged care workforce for their outstanding dedication in challenging times, with limited resources' said ACSA and Anglicare Australian. 'We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives in Australian aged care homes. However, the nation can be proud of the passion and commitment to minimise infections'.
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Giving international students a helping hand during the COVID-19 pandemic
Medibank said 'imagine you're one of thousands of international students who arrived in Australia this year for their tertiary study. Not only have you moved to a new country and had to settle into a new way of life, but you've got the added challenge of the coronavirus pandemic'. While it's affected everyone in different ways, Medibank's focus has been on providing a range of support services to help all its customers through this unprecedented time.
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Low vaccination rates in Asia Pacific will compound impacts of COVID-19 - ChildFund Australia warns
ChildFund Australia Health Advisor Tracy Yuen said many countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Timor-Leste, already have low rates of vaccination due to poor health infrastructure. 'The health systems in these nations are already struggling to treat and prevent diseases that have spread due to low vaccination rates. We saw an example of this during the measles outbreak in Samoa last year' said Ms Yuen. 'We are also deeply concerned that while existing healthcare resources are redeployed to respond to the virus, so many of these countries will not be left with any capacity to continue offering many routine programs'.
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SA: GP and nurse teams support COVID-19 patients at home
South Australians who test positive for COVID-19 will receive comprehensive daily support throughout their self-isolation from two new dedicated teams of GPs and nurses. South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the COVID-19 GP Assessment Team and nurse-led SA Health Remote Monitoring Service will contact all patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who are well enough to self-isolate at home. 'Providing the best patient care for those who have been afflicted by COVID-19 is another part of our strong plan to protect South Australians from the virus' Mr Wade said.
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TAS: Reissue: Twelfth coronavirus death in Tasmania
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein said 'it is with great sadness I can confirm another life has very sadly been lost to coronavirus in Tasmania'. Mr Gutwein said an 86 year old North West woman who was being cared for at the Mersey Community Hospital has tragically passed away. This is the 12th life lost to coronavirus in Tasmania, with 11 of those related to the North West. 'On behalf of the Tasmanian Government I extend my deepest sympathies to her family, friends and loved ones at this very hard time. We must continue to do all we can to reduce the spread of coronavirus and to keep Tasmanians safe and secure' said Mr Gutwein.
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TAS: Labor's thoughts with loved ones of latest COVID-19 victim
Tasmanian Labor Leader Rebecca White expressed her deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Tasmania's twelfth victim from COVID-19. 'On behalf of the Tasmanian Labor Party, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the North West woman who lost her life from this devastating virus,' Ms White said. 'We can't begin to imagine what they are going through but I want them to know that our thoughts, and those of all Tasmanians, are with them at this difficult time. Our dedicated health workers are also in our thoughts as they continue to work tirelessly to protect our communities from this pandemic - we thank you.'
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TAS: Report reveals multiple systemic failures
The interim report into the COVID-19 outbreak on Tasmania's North West Coast paints a concerning picture of a hospital system under-prepared and under-resourced for a pandemic, said Tasmanian Labor Leader Rebecca White. Ms White said the report released shows multiple systemic failures ahead of the outbreak. 'This outbreak has been one of the worst in Australia, with 11 of the state's 12 deaths directly linked to the North West,' Ms White said. 'It is not surprising that the Ruby Princess is suspected to be the initial source of infection - sick passengers from that vessel have travelled across the country and around the world'.
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VIC: Coronavirus testing expands at shopping centres
Six new mobile coronavirus testing sites across Melbourne will open, as part of the Victorian Government's blitz to test up to 100,000 people in two weeks. The new sites located at Bunnings West Footscray, Pacific Werribee, Pacific Epping, Watergardens Town Centre, Westfield Fountain Gate and Bayside Shopping Centre in Frankston are due to begin conducting tests. It comes after four new mobile coronavirus testing sites opened at Chadstone, Doncaster, Highpoint and Northland shopping centres - bringing the total so far to 10. Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos encouraged Victorians with even the mildest symptoms to go get tested.
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29 April

Ground breaking partnership delivers 10 million COVID-19 tests and equipment
In a ground breaking and critically important partnership between the Government, Minderoo Foundation and private pathology providers, Australia has secured an additional 10 million COVID-19 test kits and pathology equipment to be installed across the country. Over 500,000 COVID-19 tests have been completed to date. Minister Greg Hunt said, 'I particularly want to thank Andrew and Nicola Forrest and the Minderoo Foundation for their instrumental work in helping to secure this critical additional testing capacity for Australia.' Australian Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy said expansion of COVID-19 testing is an important part of the enhanced public health response.
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GP-led COVID-19 respiratory clinic opens in Devonport
Tasmania's first GP-led respiratory clinic established as part of the Government's $2.4 billion health package to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak is open in Devonport. Tasmania's first GP-led respiratory clinic established as part of the Government's $2.4 billion health package to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak is open in Devonport. The Government is establishing 100 GP-led respiratory clinics around the country to assess patients with mild to moderate COVID-19-like symptoms. The clinics will reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments and other local general practices. Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton said the Devonport clinic is one of the dedicated respiratory clinics being set up across the nations as part of the Government's response to the outbreak.
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Aussie manufacturers unite to produce emergency hospital beds
A group of four Australian-owned and operated manufacturers has teamed up with an international medical technology company and is drawing on local supply chains to manufacture emergency hospital beds in response to COVID-19. Demonstrating the power of Aussie innovation and collaboration, the Government's Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre has helped facilitate the partnership between Stryker South Pacific and A.H Beard, AmTek Australia, Fallshaw Wheels & Castors, and Varley Group. Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said within six days Stryker South Pacific, in partnership with AMGC, mapped a local supply chain to adapt the design, create prototypes and begin production of the Emergency Relief Bed in Australia.
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Research sector answers the Government's call for the best available evidence on COVID-19
Australia and New Zealand's science, research and innovation sectors have united to provide governments with the latest and best evidence as they contain and respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Rapid Research Information Forum (RRIF) was convened and is chaired by Australia's Chief Scientist, Dr Alan Finkel. It benefits from operational support and leadership from The Australian Academy of Science, and is a collaboration of the participant organisations, listed below.
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COVID-19 test kits included on the ARTG for legal supply in Australia
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the following tests for inclusion on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity has also been funded to undertake a post-market assessment of new COVID-19 rapid tests to inform their best use.
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ACT: COVID-19 update - 29 April 2020
There have been no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the ACT in the past 24 hours. The ACT's total is still 106. A total of 101 cases have recovered from COVID-19 and have been released from self-isolation. There are currently no COVID-19 patients in Canberra hospitals. The remaining two (2) active cases are isolating at home with ACT Health support. The ACT has recorded three (3) deaths. The number of negative tests in the ACT is now 8336.
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NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Tuesday 28 April 2020, an additional 11 cases of COVID-19 have been diagnosed since 8pm 27 April, bringing the total to 3,016, said the NSW Department of Health. During that time, 5,414 people were tested, compared to 4,112 in the 24 hours before. Four cases previously reported in the NSW totals have now been excluded after further testing, reflecting the adjusted overall total of 3,016 confirmed cases. Ten of the 11 new cases of COVID-19 have a source that is known. There have now been 2,266 people who have recovered from COVID-19 in NSW.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland has one new confirmed case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Queensland Health's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said currently, 971 of the 1,034 confirmed cases had recently travelled overseas or had close contact with a confirmed case, such as their partner or flatmate. 'Even though Queensland has recorded very low numbers of cases, Queenslanders are reminded to continue staying home as much as possible, and stay in their suburb when undertaking essential activities such as going to the supermarket or exercising,' she said.
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QLD: QRC applauds Glencore's investment to secure COVID-19 testing equipment for Mount Isa
The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) welcomed a $45,000 investment from Glencore to secure vital COVID-19 testing equipment for the Mount Isa Hospital. QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane applauded the move which would significantly reduce the turnaround time for results or the time taken to receive results. 'I'd like to congratulate Glencore for working with health authorities to ensure Mount Isa is equipped with the capability of testing samples at the hospital instead of flying the samples to Brisbane or Townsville,' Mr Macfarlane said.
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TAS: Partnership delivers 10 million COVID-19 tests and equipment
'The health and safety of Tasmanians is our number one priority as we face the challenges presented to us by the COVID-19 pandemic. We welcome the critically important partnership between the Australian Government, Minderoo Foundation and private pathology providers, which has successfully secured an additional 10 million COVID-19 test kits and pathology equipment to be installed in Tasmania and around the rest of the country,' said Tasmanian Minister for Health Sarah Courtney.
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TAS: Tasmania Prison Service COVID-19 preparedness
The safety, security, and health and wellbeing of Tasmania Prison Service (TPS) staff, prisoners and visitors is a high priority for the Government. Therefore, the TPS has been actively implementing a range of measures to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. To further strengthen these measures, from last Monday (27 April), all prisoners and remandees received into custody have been placed in mandatory isolation, separate from the rest of the prison population, for a period of 14 days. This is a precautionary approach to minimise the risk of COVID-19 in our prisons, said Tasmanian Minister for Corrections Elise Archer.
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28 April

Call for submissions on impact of COVID-19 on aged care services
The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is calling for submissions from the general public and organisations relating to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the aged care sector. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on all aspects of Australia's economy and society, including the delivery of aged care services. In order to understand that impact fully, the Commissioners are seeking the views of those people directly affected. The Commissioners would like to receive submissions from recipients of aged care services, families or supporters of recipients, aged care service providers, and those who work in aged care.
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CFMEU VIC/TAS proud to support industry partner Incolink in the establishment of COVID-19 mobile testing bus
The Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union's (CFMEU's) industry partner and redundancy fund, Incolink is utilising their health buses to test construction workers for COVID-19 under a new initiative supported by the Victorian State Government. Onsite testing commences on Wednesday 29th April at Multiplex's Melbourne Square, the site which had the second confirmed case of COVID-19 in the industry. To welcome the initiative, CFMEU VIC/TAS Secretary John Setka will be one of the first from the construction industry to receive a test via the new mobile health buses,
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Aboriginal Health Coronavirus News Alert No 47 - NACCHO is part of the group of national health professionals / peak health groups supporting the COVIDSafe app
As key representatives of Australia's health professions this statement supports and approves the COVIDSafe app as a critical tool in helping the nation fight the COVID-19 pandemic, protect and save lives, said the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). The COVIDSafe app has been created as a public health initiative, which will allow state and territory public health officials to automate and improve manual contact tracing. Accelerating contact tracing will help slow the virus spreading and prevent illness as well as allow an earlier lifting of social distancing and other measures.
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Aboriginal Health Coronavirus News Alert No 48 - Despite being chronically underfunded, the Aboriginal community-controlled health sector has reacted swiftly and effectively to the COVID-19 outbreak, underscoring the importance of NACCHO services
Part of the reason was that Aboriginal communities had more experience than others in dealing with the threat of viruses - from the H1N1 swine flu pandemic in 2009, during which Aboriginal people made up 11 per cent of cases in Australia, to the threat of Zika in the tropical north, said NACCHO. So, this year, across the country, Aboriginal community-controlled health services sprang into action, swapping public messaging and material, and working together to inform their own mob in a time when confusion was spreading nearly as fast as the virus.
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Welcome assistance for ACT temporary visa workers - Government must now follow ACT lead
United Workers Union welcomes the announcement from the ACT Government of free medical care in the ACT public health service for temporary visa workers and international students during the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside an emergency fund to help visa workers and international students who have lost their jobs. The union has been highlighting the heartbreaking situation of migrant members in crisis and welcomes the move to provide medical and financial support to these workers. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg must take notice of these moves in the ACT to assist workers who contribute so much to the economy and community.
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ACT: Support for Medicare ineligible patients during COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicare ineligible people requiring testing, treatment or other public health supports related to COVID-19 will have free access to medical care. This includes pathology, diagnostic, pharmaceutical and outpatient care in the ACT public health system. ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said this was an important step to ensure that every Canberran has access to safe and appropriate healthcare related to COVID-19. 'There may be some people in our community who are not eligible for Medicare and are concerned about the potential for out-of-pocket costs associated with testing and treatment,' Minister Stephen-Smith said.
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NSW: Update on COVID-19 restrictions
The NSW State Government has announced an update on COVID-19 restrictions and how schools and retail outlets will look for the month of May said NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian. There will be three key changes that will take effect across NSW next month:
- From Friday, 1 May up to two adults and their dependent children will be allowed to visit another household.
- We will see a return of face-to-face teaching from 11 May, and then will consider accelerating a full return to school as soon as possible.
- There have never been restrictions in NSW on what people can and cannot buy, however there may be increased retail activity, with some businesses choosing to re-open. It is important these shops maintain social distancing and hygiene requirements.
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QLD: Flu shot more important than ever for Queenslanders
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles and Queensland's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young rolled up their sleeve to receive their 2020 flu shot. The Premier said it was vital Queenslanders get their flu shot this year to avoid the chance of getting COIVD-19 and flu at the same time. 'Every year, we encourage Queenslanders to roll up their sleeves and protect themselves against the flu, and this year this is more important than ever,' Ms Palaszczuk said.
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QLD: COVID-19 - Tue Apr 28: No new cases / plan a flu shot / economic path
The number of active COVID-19 cases in Queensland is below 100, with no new cases confirmed and the number of tests now more than 100,000. There are now 93 active cases, 934 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1033. Queensland Premier Palaszczuk said the figures were a credit to Queenslanders' hard work. 'So congratulations we're definitely flattening that curve. This is really encouraging news and Queenslanders are doing this,' Premier Palaszczuk said.
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SA: Nurse and midwife training boost for Covid-19 surge
More than 400 nurses and midwives throughout South Australia's public hospitals have completed training to upskill in readiness for a COVID-19 surge. SA Premier Steven Marshall said extra training for staff at the frontline of the COVID-19 response was another part of the SA Government's strong plan to ensure the South Australian health system was prepared for all scenarios. SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the SA Government has also undertaken a recruitment drive to bolster the ranks of nurses and midwives, including people qualified and experienced in critical care.
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WA: COVID-19 update - 29 April 2020
The WA Department of Health has reported one new case of COVID-19 overnight, bringing the State's total to 551. The case is a 19-year-old female from metropolitan Perth who had travelled overseas. As with all new confirmed cases, contact tracing is underway to ensure all close contacts are notified and advised to self-isolate. A South African flight, bringing 255 Australians home, arrived in Perth. Following health checks at the airport, 212 passengers were transported by bus and ferry to Rottnest Island to fulfil their mandatory 14-day isolation period. The remaining people from the flight will carry out their 14-day isolation at the Pan Pacific Hotel.
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27 April

Boost for frontline health and disability services
Further changes to student visa work conditions will help boost frontline health efforts to tackle coronavirus, said Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack. 'During this health crisis we need as many people on the frontline as possible and these changes are a step in the right direction to make that happen,' Mr McCormack said. Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said the measures built on the Prime Minister's announcement that international student nurses would be exempt from the restrictions. Minister Hunt said the changes would ensure Australia had the health workforce available to continue our coronavirus success.
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Covid-19: Prevention and treatment; cardiovascular diseases
Two new COVID-19 articles have been published online by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA) - 'Clinical trials for the prevention and treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)' and 'The current state of play COVID, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, and cardiovascular diseases'. 'In the 3 months since COVID-19 emerged from Wuhan, China and spread around the world, over 1100 clinical studies have been registered globally on clinical trials registries, including over 500 randomised controlled trials' said the authors. 'Such rapid development and launch of clinical trials is impressive but presents challenges, including the potential for duplication and competition. There is currently no known effective treatment for COVID-19'.
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Commission welcomes COVIDSafe App
The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) welcomed the COVIDSafe App as an important public health initiative, which can help protect the rights of Australians to health and life. The App also opens the possibility of easing restrictions on other human rights, such as freedom of movement and freedom of association. Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow said 'the Commission welcomes the App and we will continue working with the Australian Government to ensure it protects public health, while also upholding all of our human rights. Now that the App and the legal framework supporting it have been released we will assess whether any additional safeguards need to be introduced in legislation'.
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COVIDSafe to help track down virus
The Consumers Health Forum (CHF) welcomes the COVIDSafe tracing app as an additional key public health tool to reverse the spread of the virus in Australia. 'Provided many people install COVIDSafe on their phones, the app will accelerate what is currently a manual tracing process, helping state and territory officials efficiently and expediently target outbreaks or potential outbreaks of the virus,' the CEO of the CHF Leanne Wells, said. 'This promises to be an important measure as we move to ramp up testing and tracing in this next phase of the COVID response'.
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'This App sets a dangerous precedent'
Gideon Rozner, Director of Policy at the Institute of Public Affairs said 'this App sets a dangerous precedent. In effect, the Australian people have had their freedom of movement curtailed by government, and are being given it back on the proviso that a sufficient number of Australians agree to have such movement monitored by the state' Mr Rozner said 'it is like being released on parole, except it is being asked of millions of law-abiding Australians.' Scott Morrison was right to rule out making the App mandatory. He must keep this promise, as Australians will never forgive him if he reneges and forces the Australian population to submit to government surveillance.'
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Enhanced visitation protections are for public health and safety
Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA), Aged Care Guild, Anglicare Australia and Baptist Care Australia said almost 1,000 aged care providers and their representatives have endorsed strong requests for support put to the Aged Care Minister and the Chief Medical Officer during a national webinar. 'Everyone agrees that public safety is the most important thing during this national health crisis' said the Aged Care Providers. 'Aged care providers have made extremely difficult decisions for enhanced resident protections on visitation in order to reduce the number of potential exposures to the vulnerable people in our care. This also has huge public health implications in the wider community'.
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Important notice to media for stories relating to older people
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) said during COVID-19 media coverage, it is important to provide an avenue for older Australians to obtain support during this extremely stressful and concerning time. 'This is akin to providing domestic violence victims or mental health sufferers the appropriate resources to seek help' said OPAN. 'All media surrounding aged care issues or the impact of COVID-19 on older Australians should include the following message to enable people to find help: 'For information or support regarding aged care please call the Older Person's Advocacy Network on 1800 700 600 or visit opan.com.au'.
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NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
The NSW Department of Health announced as at 8pm Sunday 26 April 2020, an additional two cases of COVID-19 have been diagnosed since 8pm 25 April, bringing the total to 3,004. 'During that time, 4,418 people were tested, compared to 5,459 in the 24 hours before. There have now been 2,227 people who have recovered from COVID-19 in NSW' said the Department. 'There are currently 160 COVID-19 cases being treated by NSW Health. These include 19 people being treated in Intensive Care Units, with 15 of those requiring ventilators. There have been no new deaths reported in the last 24 hours'.
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NT: Stay home or face two weeks' quarantine in town
Anyone except for essential workers must quarantine in Alice Springs or Tennant Creek for two weeks before they will be allowed to return to remote communities in the biosecurity areas across the Central Land Council (CLC) region. Until the quarantine services were running, the CLC had provided permission letters on a case-by-case basis to residents who needed to visit Alice Springs or Tennant Creek in exceptional circumstances so they could return to their locked-down communities inside the biosecurity areas. It also gave permission letters to residents of outstations who had jobs in town, had no access to a store or a clinic, allowing them to return home without the need to quarantine.
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QLD: Queensland introduces big fines for coughing on essential workers
People who deliberately cough, sneeze or spit on public officials and workers including shop assistants could be fined up to $13,345 under a new COVID-19 Public Health Direction. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she was acting to protect workers serving Queenslanders throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Queensland Minister for Health Steven Miles said that while the risk of infection was low because there were so few cases, incidents could be very distressing for staff. Queensland's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said the Direction, which will be in effect from Monday 27 April, would serve as further protection for frontline workers.
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QLD: Qld COVID-19 - Mon Apr 27 - Respiratory assaults, app, restrictions monitored
Heavy penalties will apply for deliberately coughing, sneezing or spitting on officials and workers, as three new cases are confirmed, and the number of tests approaches 100,000. There are now 101 active cases with 926 recoveries and six deaths for a total of 1033. Queensland Premier Palaszczuk said the figures were excellent news. 'That's the sort of statistics we want to be seeing into the future which has allowed us to make the decision to lift some of the restrictions from the weekend,' Ms Palaszczuk said. 'With a new Public Health Direction, we are clamping down on anyone who deliberately coughs, sneezes or spits on public officials and workers'.
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QLD: COVID restrictions ease
Following encouraging signs Queensland is flattening the COVID-19 curve, Queensland Premier Palaszczuk has announced stay at home restrictions will ease. From 11.59pm Friday, May 1, Queenslanders will be able to leave their homes for recreation and the distance they can travel has been extended. The Premier said numbers of new infections would be watched closely and the measures reviewed after two weeks. Queensland Minister Miles said Queensland had earned a reward for its hard work. 'We have done the right thing,' Mr Miles said. 'We have to keep doing it.' Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young supported the new measures.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
The Queensland Department of Health said Queensland has three new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Queensland Health's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said currently, 966 of the 1,033 confirmed cases had recently travelled overseas or had close contact with a confirmed case, such as their partner or flatmate. 'Even though Queensland has recorded very low numbers of cases, Queenslanders are reminded to continue staying home as much as possible, and stay in their suburb when undertaking essential activities such as going to the supermarket or exercising,' said Dr Young.
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SA: Additional PPE in time for elective surgery restart
An additional 1 million pieces of Personal Protective Equipment have begun arriving in South Australia to protect frontline health staff ahead of the recommencement of essential elective surgery. SA Minister Wade said Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential to ensure health workers are safeguarded from the spread of the COVID-19. 'In the face of worldwide shortages of PPE, securing this PPE for our health networks is a vital step in our strong plan to prepare South Australia for the impacts of COVID-19,' Mr Wade said.
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SA: Experts guide elective surgery restart
An expert surgical advisory group has been established to guide the safe and gradual re-commencement of elective surgery in South Australia and provide specialist advice on surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. SA Minister Wade said the expert advisory group's membership was diverse, with public and private sector surgeons, anaesthetists, theatre nurses, proceduralists as well as senior management across metropolitan and rural hospitals. 'The state's most senior surgical clinicians will oversee the gradual reintroduction of elective surgery over the next two weeks based on the availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), clinicians and surgical pharmaceuticals,' Mr Wade said.
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SA: Our health system is for all South Australians
The South Australian Government is urging South Australians with medical concerns not to let the COVID-19 pandemic deter them from seeking the health advice and care they need. 'Our hospitals, ambulance service and general practitioners are there to provide care to all South Australians who need them,' said SA Minister Wade. ''South Australians have responded to the coronavirus in an exemplary fashion, but it is critical they don't delay seeking treatment for other dangerous medical conditions.'
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VIC: Major Coronavirus testing blitz targets 100,000
Up to 100,000 Victorians will be tested for coronavirus as part of a major testing blitz across the State, to better understand how the virus is spreading in the community and set us up for the potential easing of restrictions. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos announced the massive expansion of testing, which will help inform decisions about slowly lifting restrictions, ahead of the State of Emergency being reviewed on 11 May. The testing blitz will be carried out through a combination of drive-through and walk-up clinics, as well as new mobile screening clinics to visit homes and workplaces.
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VIC: New smartphone app protecting our communities
The Government's new COVIDSafe smartphone application is a critical step forward to save lives and better protect our community against the spread of coronavirus, said Victorian Leader of The Nationals and Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh. Mr Walsh said COVIDSafe will provide accurate information that will speed up the process of identifying people who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with coronavirus. Participation is voluntary. 'I have chosen to sign up to COVIDSafe because better contact tracing will make it possible to quickly identify people who have come into contact with someone who's tested positive for coronavirus,' Mr Walsh said.
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26 April

Covidsafe: New app to slow the spread of coronavirus
The Government launched the new voluntary coronavirus app, COVIDSafe. The app is an important public health initiative that will help keep you, your family, and your community safe from further spread of coronavirus through early notification of possible exposure. 'Australians are doing an extraordinary job to flatten the curve and contain the spread of the coronavirus, but we cannot be complacent,' said Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Minister Hunt thanked Australians for their actions during the pandemic, and said the app is part of the three key requirements for easing restrictions: Test, Trace and Respond.
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Health Professionals support COVIDSafe app
Minister Hunt, Australian Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy and Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Alison McMillan said as key representatives of Australia's health professions they support and approve the COVIDSafe app as a critical tool in helping the nation fight the COVID-19 pandemic, protect and save lives. 'The COVIDSafe app has been created as a public health initiative, which will allow state and territory public health officials to automate and improve manual contact tracing. Accelerating contact tracing will help slow the virus spreading and prevent illness as well as allow an earlier lifting of social distancing and other measures' said Mr Hunt. 'The COVIDSafe app will assist health authorities to suppress and eliminate the virus as part of the three key requirements for easing restrictions: Test, Trace and Respond'.
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COVID-Safe: New app to slow the spread of coronavirus
The Government launched the new voluntary coronavirus app, COVIDSafe. 'The app is an important public health initiative that will help keep you, your family, and your community safe from further spread of coronavirus through early notification of possible exposure,' said Prime Minister Morrison. Minister for Health Greg Hunt thanked Australians for their actions during the pandemic, and said the app is part of the three key requirements for easing restrictions: Test, Trace and Respond. Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert described the App as being developed with one purpose: to stop the spread of coronavirus. Australian Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy said COVIDSafe is set to be a major tool in streamlining the process of identifying contacts after a person tests positive for coronavirus.
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Covidsafe: New app to help slow spread of Coronavirus
The Government launched the new voluntary coronavirus app, COVIDSafe, an important public health initiative to help keep you, your family and your community safe from further spread of coronavirus through early notification of possible exposure. Deputy Prime Minister McCormack said the app was crucial in Australians getting to the other side of the pandemic. 'By downloading this app, you will save lives and you will save livelihoods,' Mr McCormack said. 'It's important Australians know we are winning this battle, but it's not over yet. 'Downloading the app will get us one step closer to normality resuming.'
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COVIDSafe app
The Department of Health said the COVIDSafe app speeds up contacting people exposed to coronavirus (COVID-19). 'This helps us support and protect you, your friends and family. The COVIDSafe app is part of the work to slow the spread of COVID-19. Having confidence we can find and contain outbreaks quickly will mean governments can ease restrictions while still keeping Australians safe' said the Department. 'The new COVIDSafe app is completely voluntary. Downloading the app is something you can do to protect you, your family and friends and save the lives of other Australians. The more Australians connect to the COVIDSafe app, the quicker we can find the virus'.
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AMA supports contact tracing app as important measure to contain Covid-19
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has put its support behind the Government's contact tracing app to help contain the spread of COVID-19 in the Australian community. AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said that the AMA Federal Council voted to support the app. 'As a doctor, I'll be downloading the contact tracing app, and I'll be encouraging my patients, colleagues, family, and friends to do the same,' Dr Bartone said. 'The app simply automates a significant component of the current manual process of tracing who has come into contact with COVID-19. Contact tracing is currently a slow and labour-intensive process that is essential to slowing the spread of the virus'.
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RACGP launches nationwide campaign to stop people neglecting their health due to COVID-19
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) launched a nationwide campaign to stop people from neglecting their health concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign, Expert Advice Matters, will run for 30 days with advertisements on TV and social media, showing people why now, more than ever, they need to take care of their health and see their GP for any health issues. After a successful collaborative consultation between the RACGP and the Federal Government, the expansion of Medicare-subsidised telephone and online consultations for all Australians was announced on 5 April to combat COVID-19 and make it easier for people see their GP for their regular health concerns.
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COVID-19 App
The Government's shameful disregard for privacy continues with the release of its COVID-19 app, said the Greens. 'If the Government wants people to use this app, they need to put protections in law beforehand,' Leader of the Australian Greens Adam Bandt MP said. 'People have very legitimate concerns about how the data will be used and where it will be stored. The reported storage of the data by a US company raises real concerns. When it comes to privacy, if there's one person I trust less than Peter Dutton, it's Donald Trump'.
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ACT: COVID-19 update - 26 April 2020
The ACT Department of Health said there is currently one (1) case still under investigation. 'This case is a young adult female and is likely related to overseas travel. She has been isolating and we are working with a small number of close contacts. There is no risk to the wider community' said the Department. 'A previous case, a male aged in his 60s, has been reclassified from 'under investigation' to 'overseas acquired from a cruise ship'. We are confident there has been no risk to the wider community as the man did all the right things since returning to Canberra'.
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QLD: COVID-19 - Sunday April 26 - Restrictions to ease as recoveries increase
Some restrictions will be eased and some national parks will partially re-open as three new cases are confirmed along with a big increase in the proportion of recovered cases. There are now 98 active cases with 926 recoveries and six deaths for a total of 1030. Queensland Premier Palaszczuk said Queenslanders were doing a great job of listening and following directions which was flattening of the curve. 'So I can announce some good news after discussions with the Chief Health Officer,' Premier Palaszczuk said. 'From midnight Friday, we will lift some of the stay-at-home restrictions.'
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
The Queensland Department of Health said Queensland has confirmed three news cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raising the state total to 1,030. 'The total cases were revised up from 1,026 to 1,027' said the Department. 'Queensland's testing criteria has now been expanded so that anyone in the state who has fever (or history of fever) or acute respiratory symptoms can get tested. If you are unwell and you meet the above criteria, you should contact a doctor immediately. Your doctor will decide if you need to be tested for COVID-19. Before your appointment, please call ahead and tell them about your symptoms so they can prepare for your visit'.
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TAS: 11th coronavirus death in Tasmania
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein said 'it is with great sadness we confirm an 11th life lost to coronavirus in Tasmania, following the death of a man in his 90s overnight who was being cared for by the Mersey Community Hospital. On behalf of the Tasmanian Government I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this very difficult time'. Mr Gutwein said this is the 10th life lost in the North West of the state and his thoughts are with the entire community in the region who he knows are hurting right now.
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VIC: Stockpile of medical equipment keeping health workers safe
A massive warehouse in Melbourne's south-east is stocked with vital medical supplies ready to be distributed to Victorian health care workers on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic. Victorian Minister Mikakos said new orders are arriving at the warehouse every day which are then quickly distributed across the state's health system and quarantine hotels to keep health care workers and staff safe. Supplies include surgical masks, N95 masks, gloves gowns, hand sanitizer and other vital items that are key to the Government's coronavirus preparedness response.
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25 April

Exemption to enable the domestic manufacture and supply of ventilators
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) said on 8 April 2020 the Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices-Ventilators) (COVID-19 Emergency) Exemption 2020 was made to support the Government's rapid response to the COVID-19 emergency by facilitating access to medical devices to treat patients requiring invasive ventilation. ' The new emergency exemption is in effect until 31 January 2021 and is applicable to ventilators that are not already included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) in the name of the manufacturer and can demonstrate compliance with minimum technical requirements. The exemption does not permit the general supply of these ventilators to healthcare facilities or consumers outside the context of the COVID-19 emergency' said the TGA.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland Premier Palaszczuk welcomed further encouraging signs measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 are working. Another two cases were confirmed, with Queensland's total at 1,026. The Premier thanked Queenslanders for responding to restrictions and helping to flatten the curve. 'None of this is easy - but it's worth it. It's working,' the Premier said. Queensland Minister Miles said the low number of positive cases was despite record high testing. 'We're conducting well over 2000 tests a day and still seeing low numbers, that means Queenslanders are doing to right thing and stopping the spread' said Mr Miles.
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QLD: National team of experts join forces to boost ventilator stocks
A team of clinical and engineering experts across Australia have joined forces on the OzVader Ventilator project - a new Intermittent Mandatory Ventilator (IMV) design which could be used to treat ICU patients locally and globally. Queensland Minister for State Development and Manufacturing Cameron Dick said a number of engineering and clinical consortiums had designed ventilator prototypes, which, pending Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval, could be manufactured locally. Queensland Minister Miles said innovation supported by medical expertise would guarantee important supplies remain strong.
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24 April

Update on coronavirus measures
The National Cabinet met to take further decisions to save lives, and to save livelihoods. The Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy provided an update on the measures underway, the latest data and medical advice in relation to COVID-19. There are over 6,670 confirmed cases in Australia and sadly 78 people have died, said Prime Minister Morrison. It is clear that the suppression strategy for the virus is working. National Cabinet again noted data that confirms the measures put in place to suppress the virus have largely been successful in slowing and reversing the growth of cases in Australia, to ensure the health system has the capability to manage the epidemic.
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Helping hand for mature aged workers
Mature aged workers in the Riverina and Central West are being offered a helping hand to find work during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Deputy Prime Minister McCormack said changes to the Career Transition Assistance (CTA) program would ease and quicken access to funded training. The CTA program assists mature job seekers aged 45 and over with training and support to improve their digital literacy, job opportunities and identifying transferrable skills. The program will be funded by an additional $41.7 million from early May until June 2022. Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business Michaelia Cash said the CTA program was effective and popular with participants and the facilitators who delivered it.
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Welcomes COVID-19 support line for seniors
Deputy Prime Minister McCormack has welcomed a dedicated free call line to support the mental health of senior Australians, their families and carers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 'These are tough times, there's no doubt about it, and senior Australians are amongst those who feel very vulnerable at the moment,' Minister McCormack said. Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck, said talking to someone who understood and listened was an important outlet for anybody struggling to cope as the spread of the virus created additional pressure on individuals and communities.
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Aged Care Visitation
The Government is determined to ensure a safe environment exists in aged care facilities as they work together to contain the spread of COVID-19. Minister Colbeck said while providers shared a responsibility to protect the wellbeing of Senior Australians in care, total lock downs of facilities were not supported by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) or the National Cabinet. It follows calls by Prime Minister Scott Morrison who reminded providers not to impose tougher visitor restrictions. 'As the Prime Minister emphasised, we are calling on aged care providers to voluntarily implement the AHPPC guidelines and if this does not occur we will consider moving to mandating these requirements and any exemptions would need to be authorised,' Minister Colbeck said.
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CKSurgitech issued $25,200 in infringement notices for alleged breaches in relation to COVID-19 test kits
The Department of Health and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued two infringement notices totalling $25,200 to Queensland company CK Surgitech Pty Ltd for alleged breaches of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (the Act). It is alleged the company made a false or misleading statement in an application to have their IVD Rapid Test kits for SARS-CoV2 (the COVID-19 virus) included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The company also allegedly breached a condition of the Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices-Accredited Pathology Laboratories) (COVID-19 Emergency) Exemption 2020 (the Exemption) by importing COVID-19 test kits that were not included in the ARTG and were not being imported in relation to an authorised pathology laboratory as required by the Exemption.
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Domestic Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic
The Department of Health and the TGA has developed new arrangements to allow continued and flexible oversight of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) at licenced domestic manufacturing sites during the COVID- 19 pandemic. The TGA has developed a process to enable inspectors to undertake remote and/or hybrid GMP domestic inspections where suitable, in place of on-site inspections. The TGA will only use this process during the COVID-19 pandemic. Routine on-site inspections will recommence at an appropriate time when the pandemic restrictions are lifted.
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Study Visa and Additional Support for International Medical Students
The Australian Medical Students Association (AMSA) welcomes the overseas student visa changes in response to COVID- 19, as announced by the Government in a joint statement. International medical students are usually limited to 40 hours of work per fortnight by their study visa. The announced changes will relax this condition and allow them to work in Ministry-directed roles as part of the COVID-19 healthcare response. This means that international medical students in clinical years will be able to join the COVID-19 workforce in roles such as the Assistant in Medicine (AIM) in NSW Health.
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Home Care workers COVID-19 demands on Global Day of Action
April 24th is the Home Care Global Day of Action. United Workers Union members are taking action and being joined by workers around the world from New Zealand, Ireland, the United States, and throughout Europe. Home care workers around the world have three keys demands.
- Recognition
- PPE
- Testing
United Workers Union spokesperson for Home Care Mel Gatfield said, 'United Workers Union members are taking action and standing in solidarity with home care workers around the world. At this pinnacle time, with health care around the world in the spotlight, we are calling for the recognition of home care workers as health care professionals.'
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NSW: $73 million to support mental wellness during COVID-19 pandemic
More than 180 mental health workers will be deployed across the state as part of a $73 million package to boost mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. NSW Premier Berejiklian and NSW Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor announced the NSW State Government funding boost, which will help support the mental health and wellbeing of people across the state. Premier Berejiklian said the additional mental health staff and new digital resources would ensure anyone who requires support is able to access it when they need it.
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Friday 1 May 2020

Major Announcements

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

30 April

29 April

28 April

27 April

26 April

25 April

24 April

Aged Care

30 April

29 April

27 April

24 April

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

28 April

Allied Health

24 April

Children's Health

30 April

24 April

Clinical Governance

30 April

29 April

Construction and Health Infrastructure

27 April

Dental

Disabilities

27 April

Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability

E-Health

30 April

28 April

Education and Training

28 April

24 April

Funding

Health Professionals

27 April

26 April

Hospitals

30 April

29 April

27 April

25 April

Insurance

30 April

28 April

Medicare

Men's Health

Mental Health

30 April

28 April

24 April

Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System

Pharmaceuticals

30 April

29 April

28 April

25 April

24 April

Research

30 April

29 April

28 April

27 April

24 April

Rural, Regional and Remote Health

30 April

28 April

27 April

24 April

Women's Health

Transcripts

Reports

Hansards

Northern Territory

South Australia

Court Cases