This eNewsletter 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)

26 March

National Cabinet update
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australian governments continue to work together to slow the spread of coronavirus to save lives. 'Every extra bit of time allows us to better prepare the health system and put measures in place to protect Australian lives' said Mr Morrison. The Prime Minister, state and territory Premiers and Chief Ministers continued their meeting on 25 March as the National Cabinet to discuss enhanced health measures to support efforts to quickly test and contact trace coronavirus in the community. National Cabinet also agreed that testing will be expanded to include hospitalised patients with fever and acute respiratory symptoms of unknown cause, at the discretion of the treating clinician.
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Travel restrictions for remote areas commence tonight
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt said the Government is working in close collaboration with State and Territory Governments to help save Australian lives by stopping the spread of COVID-19. 'Following agreement from the National Cabinet, the movement into certain remote areas is being restricted to protect some of our most vulnerable Australians' said Mr Hunt and Mr Wyatt. 'From 11:59pm Thursday 26 March 2020, anyone wishing to enter designated areas will need to self-isolate for 14 days before they can enter. This is a requirement that will be made by the Minister for Health under the Commonwealth's Biosecurity Act 2015 and includes residents of communities in these areas'.
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Hand sanitisers and COVID-19
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) said while washing hands with soap is considered to be the most effective way to practice good hand hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitisers can play an important role in keeping hands as free from harmful microorganisms as possible. 'Hand sanitisers contain antiseptic ingredients. An antiseptic is a substance that is used on the skin to kill microorganisms or prevent the growth of microorganisms' said the TGA. 'Hand sanitisers can be either hand washes for use with water or handrubs for use without water, and are regulated as either a cosmetic or therapeutic good depending on how they are used, what they contain and what they claim to do'.
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National approach needed on continued dispensing
Following announcements from both the NSW and Victorian State Governments, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA) called for the continued dispensing measures introduced in response to the bushfire crisis in January to be made permanent to help the healthcare system cope with the COVID-19 emergency. 'In January, the Health Minister Greg Hunt gave patients access to one month's supply of medication on the PBS at a community pharmacy, without a prescription,' said National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, George Tambassis. 'NSW and Victoria have moved to extend their emergency supply measures, meaning patients will be able to be supplied with a month's supply of medication - but not at the PBS price unless action is taken'
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Disability Royal Commission calls for urgent action
The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability is calling on all Australian governments to ensure that responses to COVID-19 include dedicated strategies and take all necessary measures to protect and support people with disability. The Royal Commission has issued a Statement of Concern about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people with disability. 'Emergency planning and responses of Australian governments should include a specific strategy to provide appropriate guidance, support and funding to meet the particular needs and requirements of people with disability' said the Commission.
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Australian ICUs To be over-capacity by 5 April
New modelling, published online by the Medical Journal of Australia, suggests that Australian hospitals do not currently have the capacity to accommodate possible demand and, as a result, the future mortality rate of COVID-19 may be much higher than expected. They estimated that, given Australia has around 2200 ICU beds currently, 'Australia's ICU capacity will be exceeded at around 22 000 COVID-19 cases sometime around 5 April, 2020 … if public health measures fail to curb the rate of growth. How many intensive care unit beds (ICU) will the pandemic require?' asked the authors.
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Respiratory clinics needed urgently
Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen said Labor is increasingly concerned by the delay of promised respiratory clinics, with only two federally funded respiratory clinics currently open to combat COVID-19 as confirmed cases rise. 'The number of Australians infected with Coronavirus is doubling every three days. Respiratory clinics are needed for sick Australians now. On 11 March the Government announced they were investing in 100 dedicated respiratory clinics to be a one-stop-shop for people who are concerned they may have the virus, to be tested and isolated from other patients' said Mr Bowen.
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Australia should follow UK lead with a kindness army for older Australians
Shadow Minister for Ageing and Seniors Julie Collins said the Government should follow the UK's lead and invite all Australians to assist in supporting vulnerable members of the community who are at risk of loneliness or social isolation. 'It was reported over 400,000 people had responded to the UK's call for an army of volunteers to assist health services with the impact of COVID- 19' said Ms Collins. 'The same thing could be done in Australia to assist vulnerable members of our community, including helping older Australians who are already at risk of loneliness and social isolation'.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland Department of Health said Queensland has 50 new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raising the state total to 493. Contact tracing is underway for the 50 new cases. Queensland Health will notify the community if any other public health alerts are required. The majority of cases are from patients who have travelled overseas, or have had direct contact with a confirmed case who had travelled overseas.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland Department of Health said one individual who attended three Sunshine Coast venues on Friday 13 March. Saturday 14 March and Sunday 15 March has tested positive for novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and is now being managed by the relevant Hospital and Health Service. Queensland Health is calling for people who attended these locations during these times to monitor their health for 14 days from the listed dates, and see a doctor immediately if they develop any symptoms. Queensland Health said while the risk is very low, some people also present could potentially have been exposed.
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TAS: Supporting the mental health of Tasmanians
Tasmanian Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Jeremy Rockliff said 'the Tasmanian Government's first priority is the safety and security of Tasmanians, that's why we've announced the largest Social and Economic support package in our state's history'. Mr Rockliff said 'it is completely normal for people to feel anxious and uncertain when there is an outbreak of an infectious disease like COVID-19, as it is having a significant impact on the lives of all Tasmanians. That's why staying mentally healthy and taking care of yourself and your family is so important'.
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25 March

National Covid-19 Coordination Commission
'I announce the creation of a new National COVID-19 Coordination Commission (NCCC) that will coordinate advice to the Australian Government on actions to anticipate and mitigate the economic and social effects of the global coronavirus pandemic,' said Prime Minister Morrison. 'The Commission will ensure the Government receives the most comprehensive advice to meet the challenges ahead to cushion the economic impact of the coronavirus and help build a bridge to recovery. This is about working cooperatively across private-to-private and public-to-private networks to unlock resources, break bottlenecks and fix problems so Australian families, businesses and communities are supported through the challenging months ahead.'
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Elective surgery
Prime Minister Morrison announced that from 11.59pm (local time) on 25 March 2020, all non urgent elective surgery will be temporarily suspended. Only Category 1 and some exceptional Category 2 surgery will continue until further notice. This will apply in both the public and private health systems. The Commonwealth's Department of Health has ordered over 300 million additional masks with 30 million expected in the next two weeks, and one million surgical gowns are on order to build on Australia's stockpile of medical protective equipment.
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Government backs remote communities with COVID-19 support
The Government is offering 45 flexible grants to help 110 remote communities across Australia protect themselves against COVID-19. The grants are available as part of the Government's $57.8 million Remote Community Preparedness and Retrieval package. Minister Hunt, said the Government was focused on ensuring remote Indigenous communities were prepared for an outbreak of COVID-19. Minister Wyatt, said the flexible grants funding will ensure culturally safe measures can be developed and implemented. 'It's important that remote communities will have the opportunity to develop local, flexible solutions in planning their response to COVID-19,' Minister Wyatt said.
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Australian Government text message regarding Coronavirus prevention steps
Every Australian mobile phone will be sent a text message from the Government with important steps each person can take to protect their own health, the health of their families and the health of the whole community from the coronavirus, said Minister Hunt. As the spread of the coronavirus increases, it's vital every Australian understands the practical action they must take to look after themselves and help us protect those most at risk, said Minister for Communications Paul Fletcher. The message was endorsed by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Brendan Murphy, and was limited to 150 characters.
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COVID-19 updates
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is making some changes to the plan review process in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. If a participant has a scheduled plan review, the NDIA will contact them by phone or email to undertake their review. As part of this plan review process, a participant can discuss having a new plan in place for up to 24 months. In addition, the NDIA will be making changes to NDIS systems over the weekend to make sure participants have the funding they need during the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure participant plans don't end, on the day a plan is due to expire, it will be automatically be extended by 365 days.
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Time for even more increased social isolation
Australian Medical Association (AMA) President, Dr Tony Bartone, said that, in light of strong statements from the Prime Minister and ahead of another meeting of the National Cabinet, the AMA encourages even more and stronger social isolation measures to protect the health of the Australian community. Dr Bartone said the AMA will support decisions of governments to enforce further closure of non-essential services, suspension of schools and non-essential workplaces, and increased home isolation to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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Cooperation to aid supply of COVID-19 medical equipment
Medical technology companies will be allowed to work together to coordinate the supply and potential manufacture in Australia of ventilators, testing kits, personal protective equipment and other medical equipment needed to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted interim authorisation to the Medical Technology Association of Australia (the MTAA) to allow its members and other groups, such as suppliers or distributors of medical equipment, to share information between each other, co-ordinate orders and supply requests, prioritise requests, and jointly tender to supply COVID-19 medical equipment.
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SA: Nurses and midwives boost for COVID-19 response
The SA State Government is boosting the number of highly skilled nurses and midwives in the health workforce as part of the COVID-19 pandemic response. South Australian Premier Steven Marshall said boosting and upskilling the frontline workforce was part of the State Liberal Government's plan to prepare South Australia for the impacts of the coronavirus. South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said boosting the number of nurses and midwives is an important part of the State Government's workforce plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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TAS: Coronavirus update
The Tasmanian Department of Health confirmed six more cases of coronavirus. This brings the State's tally to 42. Three of the cases are from Northern Tasmania, two are from Southern Tasmania and one case is from the North West. Two of the cases are aged in their 70s. One is aged in their 60s, one in their 50s, one in their 30s, and one is in their 20s. Four of the cases are women; two are men. Two of the cases have recently been on cruise ships. One case is a close contact of a previously confirmed case, and three have recently travelled to Tasmania from overseas.
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VIC: Statement from the Premier
'National Cabinet took another big step,' said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. 'I want to tell you why and let you know what we need you to do right now. The Prime Minister and other first ministers recognised that Victoria is currently grappling with a more imminent threat than most other states - because we have more cases. Because of this, we agreed states and territories will soon need to take individual measures - because this is moving at a different speed in different places. I am pleased that National Cabinet has made that decision - and we'll discuss it further.'
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VIC: Elective surgery wound back to prepare for coronavirus
Victoria's public hospitals have been directed to begin winding back all non-urgent surgery, where it is safe to do so, as preparations escalate for the health system to cope with the coronavirus pandemic. While hospital admissions for coronavirus patients remain low, they are rising daily, and when peak demand from the pandemic hits Victoria's hospitals will be seriously tested. Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos said: 'We need to wind-up non urgent surgery because coronavirus cases continue to rise.'
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WA: COVID-19 update - 25 March 2020
The Western Australian Department of Health has reported 30 new cases of COVID-19 bringing the State's total to 205. The new cases include 18 males and 12 females, aged between 21 and 80. Eight of these new cases have come from regional Western Australia. Four cases are from the Southwest, with one new case in the Kimberley, Wheatbelt, Pilbara and Great Southern. The Department is in the process of interviewing these new cases to determine their travel history and to identify their close contacts.
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24 March

Telehealth access improved
Vulnerable patients and doctors have received improved protection from coronavirus after increased access to telehealth services passed Parliament. Government has extensively consulted with AMA, RACGP, ACCRM, RDAA, and other key peak bodies and members of the medical profession and health professions, to ensure Medicare is responsive to the challenges of COVID-19. Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton, said the changes would provide peace of mind for many regional communities. 'As the coronavirus situation develops, we need to ensure we protect the vulnerable and it remains important regional Australians can access their regular medical services.'
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New restrictions on prescribing hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19
In recent days there has been considerable focus on the potential for hydroxychloroquine and the similar compound chloroquine (which is not marketed in Australia) to help in treating COVID-19, said the Department of Health and Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA). Hydroxychloroquine is used for treatment of malaria and certain autoimmune diseases. Recent reports of increased off-label prescribing of medicines containing hydroxychloroquine have raised concerns that this will create a potential shortage of this product in Australia. Clinical trials are underway around the world examining their potential to treat COVID-19.
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Australian Health Funds - Premium Relief and Teleconsultation Measures.
Private Healthcare Australia Chief Executive Dr Rachel David said health fund members experiencing financial distress as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic should contact their health fund to discuss their options. 'Health fund members who have been severely impacted by job loss or underemployment as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic are urged to contact their fund directly as they may be eligible to have their premium waived for an extended period. Health funds are currently putting programs in place to provide support for members,' Dr David said.
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Additional Health and Safety Measures - statement from SDA National Secretary Gerard Dwyer
In line with the Prime Minister's call for Australians to pay more respect to 'social distancing' for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, the union representing retail employees is calling for additional steps to improve the safety of workers and shoppers. The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) is engaging daily with major companies on arrangements being put in place to keep workers safe during the pandemic. On top of measures already introduced, the SDA is calling for retailers to:
- Go 'cash free' and accept card payments only.
- Install plexiglass screens at cash registers to protect workers who cannot keep at least 1.5 metres from customers.
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Telehealth package welcomed but mental health response needed ASAP
A significant mental health response is required in this health emergency, said Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen. The Government responded to calls from Labor to extend the Medicare Benefits Schedule for telehealth mental health services delivered by GPs, psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health providers including those who are working remotely, for all patients during the COVID-19 health emergency. The final stage of this package must be rolled out without delay, said Shadow Assistant Minister for Carers Emma McBride.
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Greens call for release of COVID-19 Modelling
Senator Richard Di Natale has called on the Government to urgently release its COVID-19 modelling in the face of confusing and fragmented advice from state premiers, first ministers and the commonwealth. 'COVID-19 is presenting an unprecedented public health threat, and Australians are understandably extremely concerned,' Dr Di Natale said. 'In establishing the 'National Cabinet' of states, territories and the commonwealth, the government told us they would be providing people with clear, consistent advice on how to protect themselves and their communities, as well as a coordinated national public health response.'
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NSW: COVID-19: Emergency laws introduced to parliament to boost community safety
The NSW State Government will introduce an emergency Bill to Parliament comprising a broad range of amendments to existing laws to help combat the spread of COVID-19. New South Wales Attorney General Mark Speakman said the NSW State Government is acting swiftly to ensure we are as prepared as possible to respond to the evolving threat of coronavirus, while reducing the risk of further transmission in the community. 'Our number one priority is the health and safety of the people of NSW,' Mr Speakman said. 'These necessary changes will mean that essential public amenities can continue to operate effectively while maintaining the wellbeing of our frontline workers and the broader public.'
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NSW: ALS calls to stop Covid-19 Aboriginal deaths in custody before it's too late
The Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) welcomes the Amendments to the Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act which will allow for the early and temporary release of vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from prisons and youth detention centres, in a concerted effort to stop the further spread of COVID-19 into the State's prisons. The NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman announced the amendment to 'prioritise vulnerable offenders and others who pose a low risk to the community for consideration for conditional release.' ALS Chief Executive Officer Karly Warner commended the Government, saying Aboriginal people who are chronically-ill and incarcerated are increasingly at risk of contracting COVID-19.
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NSW: Reducing the risk of COVID-19: reducing the number of people in custody
The risk of transmission of COVID-19 in correctional centres and youth detention centres demands urgent action to reduce the number of people in those centres. The New South Wales Council for Civil Liberties (NSWCCL) strongly supports the 'Open letter to Australian governments on COVID-19 and the criminal justice system'. Overcrowding of gaols is a well-known condition which renders the prison population more vulnerable to the spread of infectious diseases. Many people in custody present with preexisting and chronic health conditions which may increase the risk to their health if infected with COVID-19.
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NT: Another confirmed case of COVID-19 in the NT
There has been another travel-related case of coronavirus confirmed in the Northern Territory, said the Northern Territory Department of the Chief Minister. This man followed the recommended health protocols and there is no community spread of the virus at this time. All six cases are from overseas travellers. More details to come.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland has 78 new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raising the state total to 397. Contact tracing is underway for the 78 new cases. The Queensland Department of Health will notify the community if any other public health alerts are required. The majority of cases are from patients who have travelled overseas, or have had direct contact with a confirmed case who had travelled overseas. The number of confirmed cases we see each day is expected to vary as they continue to respond to the COVID-19 situation across the state. Want everyone to know they can play their part to protect themselves and the more vulnerable in our community.
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VIC: Liberty Victoria Supports Calls to Protect Prisoners from COVID-19
In light of the developing COVID-19 pandemic, Liberty Victoria supports calls from more than 370 lawyers, academics and advocates to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in the Australian criminal justice system, especially prisons -and youth detention centres. Many Victorian prisons are already exceeding their capacity. Due to cramped conditions, there is a real risk that prisons will become coronavirus hotspots leading to the rapid spread of infection and putting in danger the lives of prisoners, prison staff and the wider community. Rapid decarceration is urgently needed to curb the risk to the community.
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23 March

Expansion of telehealth services
Minister Hunt, AMA President Tony Bartone, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Dr Harry Nespolon and Principal Medical Advisor Department of Health Professor Michael Kidd said 'we thank and acknowledge all of Australia's vital health care workers for their ongoing commitment and dedication to providing Australians with the health care they need during this unprecedented time'. The Government has been consulting extensively with the AMA, RACGP, ACCRM, RDAA, and other key peak bodies and members of the medical profession and health professions, to ensure Medicare is responsive to the challenges of COVID-19.
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COVID-19 advice on surgical masks and gowns
The demand for surgical masks, surgical and isolation gowns, and surgical suits may overtake the supply available to healthcare organisations during the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to this increased demand, the Department of Health, Office of Health Protection (OHP) and the TGA has prepared the information to assist healthcare organisations as they update their operating procedures during the outbreak. Masks, gloves, face shields, goggles and gowns are designed to protect the wearer from injury or the spread of infection or illness.
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No evidence to support intravenous high dose vitamin C in the management of COVID-19
The TGA is aware of a report that intravenous high-dose vitamin C may be beneficial in the management of a COVID-19 infection. 'We have investigated this report and found there is no robust scientific evidence to support the usage of this vitamin in the management of COVID-19. No published studies were found for the usage of this product for COVID-19' said the TGA. 'Two recently published open-label studies relating to the use of vitamin C in other types of infections, associated with septic shock and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), were identified and reviewed'.
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Legal supply of COVID-19 diagnostic tests
This is current advice relating to the supply of in vitro diagnostic medical devices for the detection of COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, as the COVID-19 situation is changing rapidly, this advice may change. To support efforts in managing the COVID-19 emergency, the TGA is working with suppliers to ensure that Australia has laboratory and point of care tests available that are able to accurately detect COVID-19 infections. There are two pathways to legally supply these types of tests.
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Expanded telehealth vital to containing Covid-19 and protecting doctors and their patients
AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said that expanded access to telehealth is vital to contain Covid-19 and to protect the health of frontline doctors and their patients. Dr Bartone said that the AMA is working very closely with Health Minister Greg Hunt to deliver better telehealth access to all Australians as a matter of urgency in this crisis. 'The Government is committed to further changes to Medicare to support a comprehensive telehealth model of care, and this includes finalising the detail of further telehealth operations via phone and video' Dr Bartone said.
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Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) coronavirus (COVID- 19) statement
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPCC) said the National Cabinet has asked AHPPC for advice on options for the progressive scale up of social distancing measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. 'There was a specific request to look at stronger measures in relation to non-essential gatherings initially, followed by further more intense options. The Cabinet has further asked for the triggers for introduction of stronger measures, either as a focal response or nationally' said the AHPCC. 'We now have 1,000 cases and we are clearly concerned at the rate of rise in cases and potential trajectory'.
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Coordinated response required for medical student involvement in COVID-19
The possibility of medical students being drafted into the medical workforce in the COVID-19 response is becoming increasingly real, and Federal and State Departments of Health must coordinate with all stakeholders in medical education to harness the students' talents effectively, the Australian Medical Students' Association said. 'Medical students have learnt valuable clinical skills and can contribute to the pandemic workforce in a variety of ways under the right supervision and right conditions,' AMSA President, Daniel Zou, said. 'Roles such as helping on telehealth lines, contact tracing, swab sampling, or in a more advanced 'intern' function, are all potential ways students can step up'.
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Spread telehealth to stop spread of coronavirus
The demand for isolation and social distancing forced by coronavirus makes it imperative for telehealth to be supported across as many accredited health services as possible, the Consumers Health Forum (CHF) said. 'We urge the Government to act on the advice of doctors, nurses and allied health practitioners and expand Medicare to cover telehealth services so clinicians can provide maximum help at minimal risk to many more patients and not just to known coronavirus risks,' the CEO of CHF, Leanne Wells, said.
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NT: Statement from the Chief Minister
Chief Minister of the Northern Territory Michael Gunner said 'my fellow Territorians, When the coronavirus - this silent, invisible killer - first started to threaten our country and our community, I promised you I would do whatever it takes to protect you. It's a promise I intend to keep'. Mr Gunner said the threat being faced is deadly serious. 'The evidence presented at the National Cabinet meeting was crystal clear. The spread of this highly contagious disease down south has made this an unprecedented health emergency for our entire country'.
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NT: Northern Territory Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update
The Northern Territory Department of Health said two people have tested positive to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and followed the recommended health protocols to minimise the risk to others until they could get medical treatment. As announced by the Minister for Health at a press event in Darwin, a man in his 30s tested positive for the virus after he travelled to Darwin from Zagreb via Istanbul and Denpasar, arriving on Flight JQ82 at 5:00am on 19 March 2020. He immediately went into self-isolation and was later tested at the Royal Darwin Hospital Pandemic Clinic. He is now in isolation in Royal Darwin Hospital.
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TAS: Liberals must act on AMA's call
The Liberals must act on the Australian Medical Association's call for the State Government to provide quarantine isolation to all patients in Tasmania who are infectious with COVID-19 but do not require hospitalisation, said Tasmanian Labor Leader Rebecca White. Ms White said Labor has been calling for the Government to procure vacant hotels to accommodate those required to be in quarantine and that action was now needed urgently. 'Procuring vacant hotels and other accommodation providers to provide a safe and secure place for individuals who need to quarantine but have no ability to do so in their own home is both achievable and necessary,' Ms White said.
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WA: New COVID clinics open to join coronavirus fight
A new COVID clinic opened in Armadale to boost testing capabilities for the virus in the Perth metropolitan area, said Western Australian Minister for Health Roger Cook. Another new clinic will open in Rockingham followed by two additional COVID Clinics becoming operational in Midland and Joondalup. COVID clinics are also in operation at Royal Perth Hospital, Fiona Stanley Hospital and Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, and Bunbury Health Campus in the South-West. All the new metro clinics will operate from 8am-8pm, seven days a week and will be staffed by doctors, nurses and administrative staff who will follow strict infection prevention protocols.
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22 March

Update on coronavirus measures
Australian governments are focused on working together to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) to save lives. "Every extra bit of time allows us to better prepare health system and put measures in place to protect Australian lives. We will be living with this virus for at least six months, so social distancing measures to slow this virus down must be sustainable for at least that long to protect Australian lives, allow Australia to keep functioning and keep Australians in jobs" said Prime Minister Morrison. The Prime Minister, state and territory Premiers and Chief Ministers met on 22 March 2020 as the National Cabinet. They agreed to further actions to support social distancing measures already put in place.
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Fast-tracking research into treatments for Covid-19
Minister Hunt said the Government will provide $13 million to fast-track research into treatments for the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. The funding from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) aims to support rapid development of safe and effective treatment options for COVID-19, and will be awarded via two open competitive grant opportunities:
- $8 million to identify and develop antiviral therapies for people infected with COVID-19.
- $5 million for clinical trials to better treat and manage COVID-19 patients with severe acute respiratory distress, which can be fatal.
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State and Federal Govts fund development of COVID-19 vaccine
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced a $17 million package to fast track a world-leading vaccine for coronavirus developed in Queensland. The Premier said the State and Federal Governments were working together with the Paul Ramsay Foundation to support the University of Queensland's School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences who have gained worldwide attention for a promising COVID-19 vaccine. Minister Hunt said Australia has produced some of the world's best medical research. 'This is another example of us contributing to address important health challenges for Australians and for the global population.'
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Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) coronavirus (COVID-19) statement on 21 March 2020
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) said a person can be released from isolation if they meet all of the following criteria:
- at least 10 days have passed since the onset of symptoms; and
- there has been resolution of all symptoms of the acute illness for the previous 72 hours1 The person should be advised to continue to be diligent with hand hygiene and cough etiquette and practice social distancing, as is indicated for the rest of the community, as this will assist in reducing the influenza transmission.
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
The Queensland Department of Health said Queensland has 37 new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raising the state total to 221. The patients consist of 18 males and 19 females between the ages range of 1 and 75. Contact tracing is underway for these new cases. Queensland Health will notify the community if any other public health alerts are required. The majority of cases are from patients who have travelled overseas, or have had direct contact with a confirmed case who had travelled overseas.
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TAS: Coronavirus update - 22 March 2020
The Tasmanian Department of Health said five more persons were diagnosed with Coronavirus infection in Tasmania. This brings the number of confirmed cases to 15 in the South, two in the North and two in the North West and three who lived interstate, a total of 22 cases statewide. Public Health Services is investigating each of the latest cases to identify and contact their close contacts so they can be placed in quarantine for 14 days after contact with the case. All the five latest cases have recently returned to Tasmania from overseas.
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VIC: Statement from the Premier
'I will inform National Cabinet that Victoria will proceed over the next 48 hours to implement a shutdown of all non-essential activity across our state to combat the spread of Coronavirus,' said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. 'This is not something that we do lightly, but it's clear that if we don't take this step, more Victorians will contract coronavirus, our hospitals will be overwhelmed and more Victorians will die. Victorians will still be able to go to the supermarket, the bank, the pharmacy and other essential stores, like petrol stations and convenience stores. Freight, logistics and home delivery are also considered essential and will remain open.'
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WA: COVID-19 update
The Western Australian Department of Health has reported 30 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the State's total to 120. The new cases include 19 females and 11 males, aged between 21 and 79. Of these new cases, two are from regional Western Australia, one from the Goldfields and one from the Midwest. This brings the total of number of regional cases to four. The Department is in the process of interviewing these new cases to determine their travel history and to identify their close contacts. While contract tracing is still being carried out, the Department can confirm that travel history for some of these new cases includes Austria, UK, USA and Canada.
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21 March

WA: COVID-19 update 21 March 2020
The Western Australian Department of Health has reported 26 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the State's total to 90. The new cases include 14 females and 12 males, aged between 18 and 72, who are all from the Perth metropolitan area. There are no new cases in regional WA. The Department can confirm that 15 of these new confirmed cases have travelled overseas or are linked to overseas travel - UK, USA, Ireland, Spain (via Dubai), New Zealand, France and Europe. The confirmed cases are being interviewed to determine their travel history and to identify their close contacts.
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Aged Care

26 March

Australia should follow UK lead with a kindness army for older Australians
Shadow Minister for Ageing and Seniors Julie Collins said the Government should follow the UK's lead and invite all Australians to assist in supporting vulnerable members of the community who are at risk of loneliness or social isolation. 'It was reported over 400,000 people had responded to the UK's call for an army of volunteers to assist health services with the impact of COVID- 19' said Ms Collins. 'The same thing could be done in Australia to assist vulnerable members of our community, including helping older Australians who are already at risk of loneliness and social isolation'.
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23 March

Gaffney out of step with euthanasia push during crisis
The Australian Christian Lobby is appalled at the comments attributed to independent MLC Mike Gaffney that he intends to press on with his assisted suicide campaign, despite the COVID-19 crisis. Acting ACL Tasmanian director Christopher Brohier said 'when the elderly and vulnerable are isolated and anxious, while the government and community fight to protect and save their lives, how can Mike Gaffney MLC promote assisted suicide? Mr Gaffney should learn from NSW Nationals leader John Barilaro, who pulled Nationals MP Trevor Khan into line for promoting assisted suicide during the bushfire crisis earlier in the year'.
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

None this edition.

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Allied Health

None this edition.

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Children's Health

23 March

Further delays to pregnancy health warnings on alcohol
The Foundation for Alcohol Research & Education (FARE) said the decision to further delay the introduction of pregnancy health warning labels is the result of the alcohol industry's relentless pressure to keep the community in the dark about the health harms from alcohol use during pregnancy. 'The alcohol industry will never say that now is the right time to put a strong health warning on their products because it doesn't want the community to know about the real risks of harm that alcohol can cause during pregnancy' said FARE.
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Clinical Governance

25 March

Elective surgery
Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that from 11.59pm (local time) on 25 March 2020, all non urgent elective surgery will be temporarily suspended. Only Category 1 and some exceptional Category 2 surgery will continue until further notice. This will apply in both the public and private health systems. The Commonwealth's Department of Health has ordered over 300 million additional masks with 30 million expected in the next two weeks, and one million surgical gowns are on order to build on Australia's stockpile of medical protective equipment.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure

None this edition.

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Dental

None this edition.

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Disabilities

25 March

COVID-19 updates
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is making some changes to the plan review process in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. If a participant has a scheduled plan review, the NDIA will contact them by phone or email to undertake their review. As part of this plan review process, a participant can discuss having a new plan in place for up to 24 months. In addition, the NDIA will be making changes to NDIS systems over the weekend to make sure participants have the funding they need during the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure participant plans don't end, on the day a plan is due to expire, it will be automatically be extended by 365 days.
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Increase Disability Support Pension now to deal with COVID-19
People with disability who receive the Disability Support Pension (DSP) urgently need access to the increased Coronavirus Supplement of $550 per fortnight, consistent with the Jobseeker Payment and other payments recently announced, said the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations. People with disability who are in receipt of DSP are experiencing and facing additional, unforeseen costs in this time of crisis, which is causing significant levels of distress and anxiety, and only serving to further entrench DSP recipients into poverty.
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Disabled people and carers need the $550 COVID-19 supplement
Australian Greens Disability Spokesperson Jordon Steele-John has called on Minister Ruston to urgently extend the COVID-19 supplement payment, announced as part of the government's second round of stimulus, to disabled people receiving the disability support pension and to carers who receive the carer support payment. 'Minister Ruston has been given extraordinary powers up until the end of this year which enable her to introduce measures to ensure that Australians who receive income support can get through this crisis,' said Senator Steele-John.
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability

26 March

Disability Royal Commission calls for urgent action
The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability is calling on all Australian governments to ensure that responses to COVID-19 include dedicated strategies and take all necessary measures to protect and support people with disability. The Royal Commission has issued a Statement of Concern about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people with disability. 'Emergency planning and responses of Australian governments should include a specific strategy to provide appropriate guidance, support and funding to meet the particular needs and requirements of people with disability' said the Commission.
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E-Health

None this edition.

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Education and Training

23 March

Coordinated response required for medical student involvement in COVID-19
The possibility of medical students being drafted into the medical workforce in the COVID-19 response is becoming increasingly real, and Federal and State Departments of Health must coordinate with all stakeholders in medical education to harness the students' talents effectively, the Australian Medical Students' Association said. 'Medical students have learnt valuable clinical skills and can contribute to the pandemic workforce in a variety of ways under the right supervision and right conditions,' AMSA President, Daniel Zou, said. 'Roles such as helping on telehealth lines, contact tracing, swab sampling, or in a more advanced 'intern' function, are all potential ways students can step up'.
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Funding

None this edition.

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Health Professionals

25 March

Training to help nurses re-enter the health workforce
The Government will provide funding for registered nurses to undertake online education to enable them to re-enter the clinical workforce and assist with the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. Despite swift action by Australian governments, the number of COVID-19 cases will continue to grow. It is likely that unprecedented demand for health care will put pressure on the health system and health professionals, especially doctors and nurses whose work is vital to protecting and saving lives, said Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Alison McMillan. The Government will provide up to $1 million to the Australian College of Nursing (ACN).
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SA: Nurses and midwives boost for COVID-19 response
The SA State Government is boosting the number of highly skilled nurses and midwives in the health workforce as part of the COVID-19 pandemic response. South Australian Premier Steven Marshall said boosting and upskilling the frontline workforce was part of the State Liberal Government's plan to prepare South Australia for the impacts of the coronavirus. South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said boosting the number of nurses and midwives is an important part of the State Government's workforce plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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SA: Health Heroes' Hospital
The SA State Government is moving to better protect health workers and their families during the coronavirus pandemic by establishing a health hotel for frontline staff. 'South Australia's health professionals are heroes of our efforts to combat COVID-19 and it's vital that we look after those who look after us,' said South Australian Premier Steven Marshall. 'Providing hotel accommodation will not only offer a sanctuary for health workers during the difficult days ahead but will also give them peace of mind that they are minimising any risk to their families at undue risk. 'The State Government has a strong plan which is being implemented in a decisive manner to protect South Australians from the coronavirus pandemic.'
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Hospitals

26 March

Australian ICUs To be over-capacity by 5 April
New modelling, published online by the Medical Journal of Australia, suggests that Australian hospitals do not currently have the capacity to accommodate possible demand and, as a result, the future mortality rate of COVID-19 may be much higher than expected. They estimated that, given Australia has around 2200 ICU beds currently, 'Australia's ICU capacity will be exceeded at around 22 000 COVID-19 cases sometime around 5 April, 2020 … if public health measures fail to curb the rate of growth. How many intensive care unit beds (ICU) will the pandemic require?' asked the authors.
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24 March

DEPT OF HEALTH: Private Health Insurance PHI 22/20 - Hospital & Second-Tier Updates

21 March

WA: Elective surgery to be scaled back to prepare for COVID-19
No further bookings for Category 2 and Category 3 elective surgery, procedures and routine community dental services will be made at Western Australian public hospitals as of Monday, March 23, 2020. Western Australia's Minister for Health Roger Cook said 'the safety of our frontline staff is our utmost priority in the ongoing response to COVID-19. This decision, which we have now enacted, to scale back elective surgery is essential to ensure we have access to the right protective equipment to protect our staff who care for patients with COVID-19''.
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Insurance

26 March

Medibank announces a package in excess of $50 million to support customers during the coronavirus
Medibank and ahm are introducing an initial support package in excess of $50 million to assist customers through the most significant health and economic challenge Australia has seen in 100 years. Medibank CEO Craig Drummond said 'Medibank is working hard to support our customers, our community and our people. This is the time that our customers need us the most. It is important for our customers to know that Medibank, and our people, are here to support them'.
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'Health funds should scrap their April 1 premium increases': CHOICE
Consumer advocate CHOICE says health insurers should cancel health insurance premium increases scheduled for April 1 in light of the COVID-19 health and economic crisis. 'This year is going to be tough for many people and private health insurers can help a little bit financially by not passing on their premium increases' said CHOICE CEO Alan Kirkland. 'If people can't use the normal services that would allow them to claim on their private health insurance, then insurers' costs will be going down. There is no way they can justify increasing premiums in this context. Health funds should scrap their April 1 premium increases'.
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24 March

DEPT OF HEALTH: Private Health Insurance PHI 22/20 - Hospital & Second-Tier Updates

23 March

DEPT OF HEALTH: Private Health Insurance PHI 21/20 - Coronavirus (COVID-19) - Premium Waivers - Consistent with arrangements made following previous disasters Dept has view health insurers can make ex-gratia payments to affected customers

Medibank retail store changes in response to COVID-19
Medibank said 'the health and wellbeing of our team members and our customers is front and centre in our response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak'. Medibank is working around the clock to support customers during this difficult and challenging time, including as always being available over the phone and via 24/7 web chat. 'This is a time when we need to be there for our customers, especially for those customers who are feeling uncertain' said Medibank. 'Our 24/7 Medibank Nurse and Medibank Mental Health Phone Support lines are available to eligible customers with hospital cover to provide more support during this difficult time'.
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Medicare

23 March

Expansion of telehealth services
Minister for Health Greg Hunt, Australian Medical Association (AMA) President Tony Bartone, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Dr Harry Nespolon and Principal Medical Advisor Department of Health Professor Michael Kidd said 'we thank and acknowledge all of Australia's vital health care workers for their ongoing commitment and dedication to providing Australians with the health care they need during this unprecedented time'. The Government has been consulting extensively with the AMA, RACGP, ACCRM, RDAA, and other key peak bodies and members of the medical profession and health professions, to ensure Medicare is responsive to the challenges of COVID-19.
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Expanded telehealth vital to containing Covid-19 and protecting doctors and their patients
AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said that expanded access to telehealth is vital to contain Covid-19 and to protect the health of frontline doctors and their patients. Dr Bartone said that the AMA is working very closely with Health Minister Greg Hunt to deliver better telehealth access to all Australians as a matter of urgency in this crisis. 'The Government is committed to further changes to Medicare to support a comprehensive telehealth model of care, and this includes finalising the detail of further telehealth operations via phone and video,' Dr Bartone said.
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Men's Health

None this edition.

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Mental Health

26 March

TAS: Supporting the mental health of Tasmanians
Tasmanian Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Jeremy Rockliff said 'the Tasmanian Government's first priority is the safety and security of Tasmanians, that's why we've announced the largest Social and Economic support package in our state's history'. Mr Rockliff said 'it is completely normal for people to feel anxious and uncertain when there is an outbreak of an infectious disease like COVID-19, as it is having a significant impact on the lives of all Tasmanians. That's why staying mentally healthy and taking care of yourself and your family is so important'.
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24 March

Telehealth package welcomed but mental health response needed ASAP
A significant mental health response is required in this health emergency, said Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen. The Government responded to calls from Labor to extend the Medicare Benefits Schedule for telehealth mental health services delivered by GPs, psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health providers including those who are working remotely, for all patients during the COVID-19 health emergency. The final stage of this package must be rolled out without delay, said Shadow Assistant Minister for Carers Emma McBride.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System

20 March

Statement on public hearings
The Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System has taken the preventative measure of cancelling its second and final round of public hearings in response to the latest advice about COVID-19. The public hearings were scheduled to commence in late-April and to run for four weeks. Commission Chair, Penny Armytage said the decision to cancel public hearings has been made to assist public health services in their efforts to maintain the health and wellbeing of the community and to slow the spread of COVID-19. 'We are incredibly grateful for all the input that our witnesses are contributing to the work of the Commission and this important work will continue over the coming months, including through written witness statements which we plan to start publishing online from May,' Ms Armytage said.
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Pharmaceuticals

26 March

National approach needed on continued dispensing
Following announcements from both the NSW and Victorian State Governments, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA) called for the continued dispensing measures introduced in response to the bushfire crisis in January to be made permanent to help our healthcare system cope with the COVID-19 emergency. 'In January, the Health Minister Greg Hunt gave patients access to one month's supply of medication on the PBS at a community pharmacy, without a prescription,' said National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, George Tambassis. 'NSW and Victoria have moved to extend their emergency supply measures, meaning patients will be able to be supplied with a month's supply of medication - but not at the PBS price unless action is taken'
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Update your medicines list now - you'll need it if you go to hospital
In these times of COVID-19, health professionals can help remind people: If patients take one or more regular medicines, now is the time to make sure they have an up-to-date list of all the medicines they take. This is the advice from NPS MedicineWise ahead of an anticipated increase in the number of people seeking health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacist and Medicines Line manager at NPS MedicineWise, Nerida Packham, says a medicines list is a complete list of all your prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines.
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25 March

Warning about products claiming to treat or prevent the novel coronavirus
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has identified certain therapeutic goods such as complementary medicines or disinfectants being inappropriately promoted for the prevention or treatment of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infections in Australia. The advertising of therapeutic goods to consumers in Australia is subject to legislative requirements administered by the TGA. The promotion of therapeutic goods to consumers for the prevention or treatment of novel coronavirus is likely to contravene the legislative requirements for a range of reasons, including unsupported claims or making a restricted representation.
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Senate inquiry calls for sweeping changes to medicinal cannabis access
A Senate Committee Inquiry examining access to medicinal cannabis in Australia has made a series of landmark recommendations to significantly improve the lives of Australian patients. The Committee heard from patients up and down the country who are unable to access the medicinal cannabis treatments they need due to regulatory barriers and enormous cost. The Community Affairs References Committee inquiry, instigated by Dr Richard Di Natale, Greens health spokesperson, heard of the many failings of the current arrangements for accessing legal medicinal cannabis products in this country.
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