Table of contents

Related Links

You are in:

Outcome 14 – Biosecurity and Emergency Response

Preparedness to respond to national health emergencies and risks, including through surveillance, regulation, prevention, detection and leadership in national health coordination

prev page | TOC | next page

PDF printable version of Outcome 14 Biosecurity and Emergency Response (PDF 647 KB)

Outcome Strategy

Outcome 14 aims to strengthen the nation’s capacity to identify, monitor and implement effective and sustained responses to health threats or emergencies, thereby protecting public health. This includes mass casualty events, communicable disease outbreaks, terrorism, natural disasters and environmental hazards. The department worked to achieve this Outcome by managing initiatives under the programs outlined below.

This chapter reports on the major activities undertaken by the department during the year, reporting against each of the major activities and performance indicators published in the Outcome 14 chapter of the 2010-11 Health and Ageing Portfolio Budget Statements (PB Statements) and the 2010-11 Health and Ageing Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements (PAES). It also includes a table summarising the estimated and actual expenditure for this Outcome.

Outcome 14 was managed in 2010-11 by the Office of Health Protection and the Regulatory Policy and Governance Division. The department’s state and territory offices also contributed to the achievement of this Outcome.

Program Name Program Objectives in 2010-11

Program 14.1:
Health Emergency Planning and Response
Ensure that Australia’s health system has integrated and coordinated arrangements in place to respond to national health emergencies and protect the community.

Build Australia’s capability to respond to national health emergencies.

Protect against potential misuse of biological material, including contributing to the safe use of pesticides and other chemicals in Australia.

Program 14.2: Surveillance
Strengthen communicable disease surveillance analysis and reporting, to enable effective detection, warning and response to communicable disease health threats.

Minimise the risks posed by communicable disease threats, and reduce their effect on society and the economy.

Manage the human health risks posed by people, biological material, vessels (aircraft and ships) and vectors (organisms that act as carriers or transporters of infectious disease) entering Australia.

Program Name	Program Objectives in 2010-11
Program 14.1: Health Emergency Planning and Response	Ensure that Australia’s health system has integrated and coordinated arrangements in place to respond to national health emergencies and protect the community. Build Australia’s capability to respond to national health emergencies. Protect against potential misuse of biological material, including contributing to the safe use of pesticides and other chemicals in Australia.
Program 14.2: Surveillance	Strengthen communicable disease surveillance analysis and reporting, to enable effective detection, warning and response to communicable disease health threats. Minimise the risks posed by communicable disease threats, and reduce their effect on society and the economy. Manage the human health risks posed by people, biological material, vessels (aircraft and ships) and vectors (organisms that act as carriers or transporters of infectious disease) entering Australia.

Major Achievements

Completed the largest vaccination program in Australia’s history, the National Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 2009 Vaccination Program, which finished on 31 December 2010. In addition, the department provided international support through a second donation of 1.7 million doses of pandemic influenza vaccine to the World Health Organization in September 2010.
Activated the department’s National Incident Room six times during 2010-11 to coordinate the health response to natural disasters impacting Australians and international communities.

Challenges

An escalation in emerging drugs and the diversion of chemicals to illicit drug manufacture increased the regulatory effort required of the department. This presented a challenge to the department’s capacity to process applications in a timely manner while meeting international reporting requests.
The worldwide short supply of rabies immunoglobulin, which is used to treat people exposed to the rabies virus. This problem was exacerbated by the detection of rabies in dogs in Bali, leading to additional demand in Australia. The department worked effectively with stakeholders in 2010-11 to ensure sufficient supply and distribution of rabies immunoglobulin.

Top of page

Program 14.1: Health Emergency Planning and Response

Program 14.1 aims to ensure that Australia’s health system has integrated and coordinated arrangements in place to: respond to national health emergencies and protect the community; build Australia’s capability to respond to national health emergencies; and protect against potential misuse of biological material, including contributing to the safe use of pesticides and other chemicals in Australia.

Integrate and Coordinate Arrangements to Protect the Australian Community

Pandemic Influenza

In 2010-11, the department continued its review of the Australian health sector’s response to the pandemic (H1N1) influenza 2009. As part of this process, the department consulted with state and territory health services and other Australian Government agencies involved in the management of the response, along with a range of expert committees, general practitioners and clinicians. The review examines lessons related to: governance structures; communications; surveillance systems; border measures; public health measures; health sector and laboratory capacity; the National Medical Stockpile; the vaccination program; and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Outcomes of the review will be used to further update the Australian Health Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza and strengthen Australia’s ability to respond to influenza pandemics in the future. An interim revision of the Australian Health Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza was endorsed in 2010, updating the document to reflect the characteristics of a mild pandemic.

The department contributed to international pandemic planning in 2010-11 by engaging with forums such as the World Health Organization International Health Regulations Review Committee. The department was also instrumental in achieving World Health Organization member state consensus on the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework for the Sharing of Influenza Viruses and Access to Vaccines and Other Benefits at the World Health Assembly in May 2011. This framework guarantees the flow of influenza virus samples into the World Health Organization Global Influenza Surveillance Network, enabling the timely availability of critical information and analyses required to rapidly respond to an emerging pandemic.

In 2010-11, the department continued to roll out the largest vaccination program in Australia’s history, the National Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 2009 Vaccination Program, ensuring protection of a significant proportion of the population leading up to the 2010 influenza season. A total of 13.2 million doses of pandemic influenza vaccine were distributed during the pandemic response, with 9.4 million doses delivered to immunisation providers across the country and 3.8 million doses donated to the World Health Organization to support the international response, before the program was concluded on 31 December 2010.

Increased Preparedness for Health Emergencies

The department chairs and provides support to the Australian Health Protection Committee. The Australian Health Protection Committee comprises the Chief Medical Officer, Chief Health Officers from all states and territories, representatives from a range of Australian Government agencies and experts. It provides advice to health ministers on both Australia’s preparedness for health emergencies and on other national health protection priorities, as well as coordinating the national health response to mass casualty and other incidents of national significance. In 2010-11, the department led the development of the committee’s Strategic Work Plan for 2011-14. In addition, the department, in collaboration with committee members, commenced work on the 4th National Health Disaster Management Capability Audit, as well as preparations for exercises to evaluate these capabilities.

In 2010-11, the department continued the revision and development of national guidelines to ensure state and territory preparedness, response and management arrangements for chemical, radiological, smallpox and anthrax incidents. These guidelines integrate national, state and territory planning in the event of a deliberate or accidental release of such substances. It is anticipated that the radiological and anthrax guidelines will be completed by the end of 2011 followed by the chemical and smallpox guidelines by mid-2012.

In 2010-11, the department funded the Australian Red Cross both nationally and in the Asia-Pacific region to conduct health related humanitarian work and community activities. This support aimed to improve national emergency preparedness, first aid, disaster response and refugee services.

Management of the National Medical Stockpile

The department continues to maintain the National Medical Stockpile to ensure the availability of potentially life saving drugs and equipment to the community in the event of a national public health emergency. In the 2010-11 Budget, the department was provided with $38.2 million to dispose and replace expiring stock. The items replaced included influenza antiviral drugs and personal protective equipment used in response to pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Material in the National Medical Stockpile is replaced as it expires.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Replacement items delivered to the National Medical Stockpile as close to the items’ expiry date as possible.
Result: Deliverable substantially met.
During 2010-11, the department procured items for delivery before the expiry date of current stock. The exception was surgical masks where consultation with the states and territories was required which has delayed the procurement process. This stock will now be delivered in 2011-12.
Qualitative KPI:	Capacity for the timely deployment of the National Medical Stockpile.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Measured by the deployment of the stockpile, either through exercise or live deployment, meeting the six-hour response benchmark.
Result: Indicator met.
During 2010-11, the department successfully undertook five deployments from the National Medical Stockpile. All five deployments from the stockpile met the six hour response benchmark.
Qualitative KPI:	Containment of disease outbreaks, mass casualty and biosecurity incidents through the timely engagement of national health coordination mechanisms and response plans.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Measured by the impact of a disease outbreak, mass casualty or biosecurity incident, if it occurs.
Result: Indicator met.
The department’s National Incident Room enabled the containment of 67 potential communicable disease outbreaks in cooperation with Australian Government agencies, state and territory health agencies, other countries’ National Focal Points and airlines.

The National Incident Room was also activated in 2010-11 as part of the National Counter-Terrorism Committee’s Multi-Jurisdictional Exercise Mercury 10. The exercise identified improved processes for coordinating aeromedical evacuation of casualties following a mass casualty incident.

Qualitative KPI: Preparedness to respond to disease outbreaks or mass casualty incidents.

2010-11 Reference Point: Measured by the Government’s performance in exercises and possession of sufficient resources for deployment.

Result: Indicator met.

The department participated in the National Counter-Terrorism Committee sponsored Multi‑Jurisdictional Exercise Mercury 10 at the national strategic level with a focus on national decision making. The urgent operational requirements of the department’s response to the Pakistan floods placed restrictions on the capacity of the Australian Health Protection Committee and the National Incident Room to participate. However, data gathered and lessons identified during exercise play provided a strong empirical basis for future policy development to significantly improve clinical outcomes for patients transferred by air in response to mass casualty incidents.

Top of page

Qualitative KPI:	Preparedness to respond to disease outbreaks or mass casualty incidents.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Measured by the Government’s performance in exercises and possession of sufficient resources for deployment.
Result: Indicator met.
The department participated in the National Counter-Terrorism Committee sponsored Multi‑Jurisdictional Exercise Mercury 10 at the national strategic level with a focus on national decision making. The urgent operational requirements of the department’s response to the Pakistan floods placed restrictions on the capacity of the Australian Health Protection Committee and the National Incident Room to participate. However, data gathered and lessons identified during exercise play provided a strong empirical basis for future policy development to significantly improve clinical outcomes for patients transferred by air in response to mass casualty incidents.

In response to domestic disasters, the National Incident Room’s main focus is to coordinate information flow across the department and between states and key stakeholders. During the Victorian and Queensland floods, and Tropical Cyclone Yasi, the department supported communities in the areas of mental health, pharmaceuticals, Medicare, aged and community care, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

National Health and Emergency Response

The department’s National Incident Room was activated six times during 2010-11 to coordinate the health response to both national and international natural disasters and emergencies.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Policy and operational matters relating to pandemic preparedness, potential bioterrorism and mass casualty incidents are addressed through consultation with other Australian Government agencies, the jurisdictions, and experts through key committees and working groups.
2010-11 Reference Point:	The department works actively with other Government agencies, jurisdictions and states and territories. This will be measured by the department’s participation in regular meetings of the Australian Health Protection Committee and its subcommittees.
Result: Deliverable met.
The Australian Health Protection Committee held three meetings during 2010-11 to consider significant policy matters related to the health response planning for disasters and communicable disease control. The committee was supported in its work by its three subcommittees, the Communicable Disease Network Australia, the Public Health Laboratory Network and the Environmental Health Committee, and one working group, the Health All Hazards Working Group.
Qualitative KPI:		Timely response to health emergencies through coordination between jurisdictions.
2010-11 Reference Point:		Minimisation of negative health impact on the Australian population.
Result: Indicator met.
The department’s National Incident Room provided a focal point for ensuring timely national health responses and was activated to ensure a coordinated national response to the health consequences of six disasters during 2010-11. The department managed 17 teleconferences of the Australian Health Protection Committee to coordinate national health responses to the Queensland floods, Tropical Cyclone Yasi, four international emergencies (including the earthquake near Sendai in Japan with the subsequent tsunami and radiation leakages from the Fukushima nuclear power station), and immunisation issues of national significance. For two of these international emergencies the department, through the National Incident Room, coordinated the despatch of Australian Medical Assistance Teams to Pakistan following the extensive flooding, and to Christchurch following the earthquake. The department fulfilled responsibilities in accordance with the Commonwealth Disaster Plan and the Australian Government Overseas Disaster Assistance Plan following their activation. As a result of these deployments, the department has developed an Australian Medical Assistance Team Manual and deployment database to improve the responsiveness of the teams.

Top of page

Case Study: Extensive Floods in Pakistan

Unusually heavy rainfall in July and August 2010 resulted in large areas of Pakistan being without power, clean water or communications. An estimated 20 million people were displaced by the floods.
As part of the Australian Government response to the United Nations and the Pakistan Government’s appeal for assistance, the department coordinated the assembly and deployment of Australian Medical Assistance Teams under the Australian Government Overseas Disaster Assistance Plan. The coordination of Australian Medical Assistance Teams was managed from the department’s National Incident Room. Once deployed, the Australian Medical Assistance Teams also liaised closely with the World Health Organization.

The department worked closely with other agencies including the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), the Australian Defence Force and Emergency Management Australia, to evaluate health needs and develop a national health component to the whole of government response to the disaster.

Australian Medical Assistance Teams rotated through the Australian Medical Task Force clinic in Pakistan over a seven week period, with the average deployment length of 30 days. The Australian Medical Task Force facility treated 11,375 patients while in Pakistan.

Although this deployment was international, the skills and experiences used and developed during this operation will enrich the Australian Medical Assistance Teams’ capability to respond to national health emergencies. Experiences from this operation are being applied to improve the governance structures of Australian Medical Assistance Teams and streamline the selection of the most suitable personnel for a particular response.

Biosecurity, Drug and Chemical Safety, and Environment Health

Biological Security

The Security Sensitive Biological Agents Regulatory Scheme remains the key mechanism through which the department regulates access to biological agents of security concern.

Qualitative KPI:	Regulation of security sensitive biological agents.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Access to biological agents for terrorist purposes is prevented, measured by the registration of facilities working with identified security sensitive biological agents, their compliance with mandatory standards, and the department’s successful engagement with industry.
Result: Indicator met.
Throughout 2010-11, the department processed 354 reports and conducted 18 inspections, revealing a high level of compliance with the Security Sensitive Biological Agents Regulatory Scheme. This high level of compliance is reflective of the department’s efforts to work closely with organisations regulated by the scheme. In 2010-11, the department undertook activities to further strengthen the scheme, including: the revision of the Security Sensitive Biological Agents Standards; implementation of a dedicated online training facility to help regulated stakeholders comply with requirements; introduction of background checking of persons authorised to handle biological agents of security concern; and commencement of a review of biological agents to ensure those that are of security concern are appropriately regulated.
Quantitative KPI:		Percentage of facilities registered to handle Security Sensitive Biological Agents that are compliant with mandatory standards.
2010-11 Target:		100%	2010-11 Actual:	100%
Result: Indicator met.
All entities and facilities inspected during 2010-11 demonstrated compliance with the Security Sensitive Biological Agents Standards.

Top of page

In 2010-11, the department supported activities to enhance national laboratory capacity and preparedness, and increase its capacity to detect and identify biological agents of security concern to Australia. This included the provision of laboratory equipment and reagents to key national public health laboratories, and continued support of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Quality Assurance Program for biological agents of security concern. The program provides laboratories with the opportunity to gain experience in identifying biological agents. The department also supported activities to ensure appropriate high level physical containment laboratories are accessible in the event of an act of bioterrorism.

Drug and chemical safety

The department continued to provide advice to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority on the public health effects of human exposure to chemicals and pesticides regulated by the authority. The toxicology profile of each product and its method and purpose of use is considered by the department and used to inform the regulation and approval process for new pesticides and veterinary medicines.

Qualitative Deliverable:		Ongoing human health and safety assessments completed to a quality standard, under the Service Level Agreement with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority.
2010-11 Point:		Completed within required timeframes and the satisfaction of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority.
Result: Deliverable substantially met.
The assessments of agricultural and veterinary chemicals provided to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority were accepted as being comprehensive, accurate and good quality. The Office of Health Chemical Safety and Environmental Health recommended against granting some applications on health grounds. The department continued to develop and maintain the database of health standards arising from these assessments.
Quantitative KPI:	Percentage of human health and safety risk assessments for pesticides and veterinary medicines made within agreed timeframes and pass performance standards assessment.
2010-11 Target:	100%		2010-11 Actual:	41%
Result: Indicator not met.
In 2010-11, the department made structural adjustments to increase its capacity and flexibility to deliver risk assessments. The backlog of assessments has been substantially cleared, however, the lag effect of the backlog and difficulty recruiting appropriate staff has meant that the department did not meet its timeframe target. Timeframe performance did increase from 37% compliance in 2009-10 to 41% in 2010-11. The department began developing options to access external expertise to minimise this risk. Timeframe compliance is expected to significantly improve in 2011-12.
Qualitative KPI:	Build Australian health sector capacity to manage environmental threats.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Human health and the environment are protected from harmful chemicals and drugs measured by the department’s timeliness, quality, and stakeholder acceptance of chemical assessments, setting standards and issuing authorisations.
Result: Indicator substantially met.
The department completed 105 chemical assessments and supported approval or registration of chemicals only if they did not pose a hazard to human safety or would not have a harmful effect on humans. Appropriate acceptable daily intakes, acute reference doses, first aid instructions, safety directions, and re-entry and warning statements were recommended when approval or registration was supported by the department. Existing chemicals are reviewed if new information of safety concern becomes available. Several reviews of varying complexity were completed as requested by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. The department also provided advice on various agricultural and veterinary chemical-related issues as requested.
Quantitative KPI:	Percentage of recommendations for standards relating to the supply of human medicines, pesticides, veterinary medicines and other chemicals made within statutory timeframes.
2010-11 Target:	100%		2010-11 Actual:	100%
Result: Indicator met.
All scheduling decisions on requested amendments to the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons made by the Secretary’s delegates were published within acceptable timeframes. In 2010-11, 70 requests for a scheduling consideration were processed, of which 35 were referred to an expert advisory committee and 35 were delegate-only decisions. A total of 60 decisions were taken, with matters considered by advisory committees in June to be determined early in 2011-12. For matters referred to an advisory committee and thus requiring public consultation, 304 public submissions were received and processed.

Top of page

The department’s contribution to international work on chemical safety has included Australia taking the lead in developing guidelines on the use of dermal absorption studies which are among the tools used to estimate pesticide exposure in workers and the public. This work is valuable in helping achieve international harmonisation in pesticide risk assessment which reduces regulatory burden.

The department collaborated with other countries in Global Joint Reviews of a number of new chemicals to reach an agreed position on chemical safety for human use and consumption. The department also continued to develop detailed guidance on its policies and methodologies for conducting human health risk assessments to improve the consistency and transparency of the assessment reports.

The department also contributed to the work of the Standing Committee on Chemicals which works across agencies and across jurisdictions to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of chemicals and plastics regulation, and to implement reforms agreed by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG).

The department introduced new national arrangements for medicines and poisons scheduling which promote more efficient scheduling of medicines and poisons and support scheduling uniformity across states and territories. More efficient scheduling of medicines and poisons ensures the public has access to medicines through appropriate avenues and that access to dangerous chemicals is controlled.

Management of Illicit and Controlled Substances

In 2010-11, the department maintained controls for the licit use of narcotics, psychotropic substances, precursor substances and other controlled substances under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956, the Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958 and the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967. These controls are in accordance with Australia’s obligations under international drug treaties. The department monitors the licit traffic of narcotic, psychotropic and precursor substances in and out of Australia, and provides regular reports on this information to the United Nation’s International Narcotic Control Board.

Quantitative Deliverable:	Percentage of applications for the import, export, and manufacture of controlled substances that are assessed and processed within agreed timeframes.
2010-11 Target:	98%	2010-11 Actual:	97%
Result: Deliverable substantially met.
The department granted a total of 5,800 licences and permits authorising the import, export and manufacture of controlled drugs – an increase of 7% over 2009-10. The increase contributed to processing times being marginally outside of the target of 98%. Over 3 million legitimate movements of controlled drugs between establishments were monitored and reported to state and territory health agencies with agreed timeframes. The department fully met the reporting requirements of the United Nations International Narcotic Control Board through provision of estimates and statistical data concerning the scientific and medical use of drugs.

The department actively cooperated with overseas countries in the control of substances (precursors) that have the potential for diversion into illicit drug manufacture. Pre-export notifications were sent and received by the department for all precursor substances controlled under international drug treaties.

Through collaboration with the states and territories, the department monitored the stock, manufacture and approximately three million wholesale transactions of all controlled drugs in Australia. The data collected contributed to Australia’s obligations under international drug treaties and assisted states and territories with monitoring potential drug diversions.

Australia is a major global producer of narcotic raw materials from poppy cultivation. In accordance with international drug treaties, Australia is required to carefully control and supervise all stages of poppy growing and the production of narcotic raw materials. The department issued manufacturing licences and permits under the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967 and reported the cultivation areas, harvests and narcotic production to the United Nation’s International Narcotic Control Board.

Top of page

Environmental Health

In 2010-11, the department continued to undertake activities to address health threats in the environment through management of the National Environmental Health Strategy 2007–12.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Enhanced national approaches to environmental health hazards are developed.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Measured by progress against the key performance indicators in the National Environmental Health Strategy 2007–2012.
Result: Deliverable met.
Progress was made against all of the key performance indicators contained in the National Environmental Health Strategy 2007–2012. In particular, significant improvements continued to be made in the key policy areas of workforce and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander environmental health; and in the development of scientifically sound, effective and nationally consistent guidance for both professionals and the general public to support the protection of public health. This includes expanding the ‘No Germs on Me’ social marketing campaign through Indigenous media outlets, scoping and drafting a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander environmental health strategy, developing and focus-testing consumer information on asbestos, reviewing and reprinting guidance on rainwater tanks, encouraging the uptake of key elements of the Environmental Health Committee Environmental Health Officer Skills and Knowledge Matrix by universities and professional bodies, and commencing a review of guidance on the management of public health pests.

In addition, the department also provided further advice to inform the development of revised Australian Drinking Water Guidelines by the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Whole of Program Performance Information

Qualitative Deliverable:	Produce relevant and timely evidence-based policy research.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Relevant evidence-based policy research produced in a timely manner.
Result: Deliverable met.
In 2010-11, the department researched and developed evidence-based policy to prepare for and effectively respond to national public health emergencies and inform targeted health protection policy through a number of activities. Funding provided to research organisations such as the World Health Organization Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza has contributed to Australian national, regional and international influenza surveillance, and the department’s influenza pandemic planning policy. In 2010-11, the department initiated the 2010 National Capability Audit to inform national health emergency planning; and conducted the health component of the National Counter-Terrorism Committee’s Multi-Jurisdictional Exercise Mercury 2010 in August 2010 to inform policy development on Australian medical transport during a crisis.
Qualitative Deliverable:	Stakeholders participate in program development through a range of avenues.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Stakeholders participated in program development through avenues such as regular consultative committees, conferences, stakeholder engagement forums, surveys, submissions on departmental discussion papers and meetings.
Result: Deliverable met.
The department consulted with relevant stakeholders across all sectors, including Australian Government agencies, states and territories, industry, academic and research institutions, and expert bodies on health protection policy and program development. Stakeholders, such as the members of the Health All Hazards Working Group, have actively contributed to the ongoing development of the Australian Medical Assistance Team processes as exploited during deployments to Pakistan and New Zealand. The regulated community and scientific experts have actively contributed to the ongoing enhancement of the security sensitive biological agents regulatory scheme through consultation on the recently revised security sensitive biological agents standards.
Quantitative Deliverable:	Percentage of variance between actual and budgeted expenses.
2010-11 Target:	≤0.5%	2010-11 Actual:	17.6%
Result: Deliverable not met.
This overspend was due to a higher than anticipated write down and deployment of assets in the National Medical Stockpile.

Top of page

Program 14.2: Surveillance

Program 14.2 aims to strengthen communicable disease surveillance analysis and reporting to: enable effective detection, warning and response to communicable disease health threats; minimise the risks posed by communicable disease threats, and their effect on society and the economy; and manage the human health risks posed by people, biological material, vessels (aircraft and ships) and vectors (organisms that act as carriers or transporters of infectious disease) entering Australia.

Communicable Disease Surveillance, Analysis and Reporting

The communicable disease issues facing Australia are diverse and include foodborne diseases, antimicrobial resistant bacteria, sexually transmissible infections, vector borne diseases, and vaccine preventable diseases. New and emerging diseases, such as Hendra virus and avian influenza, also pose potential threats to public health. In 2010-11, the department continued to support existing surveillance, analysis and management of domestic and international incidences of communicable and foodborne diseases. The department used relevant data sources, including the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System and links with the World Health Organization, to identify outbreaks and predict communicable disease trends.

Qualitative KPI:	Effective surveillance, analysis and management of domestic and international incidents and outbreaks of communicable and foodborne diseases.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Incidents and outbreaks are reported within agreed protocols and timeframes.
Result: Indicator met.
In 2010-11, the department conducted national surveillance on 65 notifiable diseases through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. The department responded to 113 requests for information or data regarding nationally notifiable communicable diseases or outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness. Cases of measles, meningococcal disease and dengue fever were managed in collaboration with state and territory health authorities. The department made multiple enhancements to surveillance systems to simplify reporting of nationally notifiable diseases, outbreaks and influenza-like illness in Australia. In 2010-11, the department, through OzFoodNet, investigated three multi-jurisdictional outbreaks of foodborne diseases, including one outbreak of listeriosis and two outbreaks of salmonellosis. Also through OzFoodNet, the department investigated approximately 1,700 outbreaks and clusters of gastrointestinal illness, of which around 150 were confirmed or suspected of being due to the consumption of contaminated food. In response to a recall of weight-loss products that contained an undeclared therapeutic substance, sibutramine, the department issued health advice to health professionals and consumers. Under the International Health Regulations 2005, the department notified five countries of relevant cases of gastroenteritis or outbreaks under investigation, including two outbreaks of cyclospora associated with a cruise trip, and cases of cholera, typhoid and hepatitis A in travellers.
Qualitative KPI:		Reduce the impact of communicable and foodborne disease.
2010-11 Reference Point:		Medium and long-term trend analysis of the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System and OzFoodNet data indicate a reduction.
Result: Indicator met.
In 2010-11, the department analysed surveillance data in the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, the National Influenza Surveillance Scheme and OzFoodNet, to enable health authorities to respond to outbreaks in a timely manner. While surveillance data showed the decline of many communicable diseases as a result of public health responses, a small number of communicable diseases identified in testing have increased in recent years due to better laboratory tests and case finding. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is an example of a communicable disease that is proving difficult to control in Australia. It remains one of the most common vaccine preventable diseases, with epidemics occurring around every 3–4 years. In the most recent epidemic, notified cases increased nationally from 4,854 (23 per 100,000 population) in 2007, to a peak of 34,449 (154 per 100,000) in 2010. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation Pertussis Working Party used surveillance data in an epidemiological analysis of the outbreak to support policy deliberations on vaccine efficacy and both the timing and number of vaccines provided under the National Immunisation Schedule. The department used surveillance data to inform the current review of the National Pertussis Guidelines for the management of the disease by public health units, and to inform development of a National Pertussis Communication Strategy to inform the public about the disease, its treatment and prevention.
Quantitative KPI:	Percentage of nationally notifiable diseases reported to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, as measured by the success of daily monitoring.
2010-11 Target:	90%		2010-11 Actual:	100%
Result: Indicator met.
In 2010-11, 100% of nationally notifiable disease cases were reported to the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System. The department and jurisdictional health authorities made collaborative and continuous efforts to improve the collection, timeliness and quality of communicable disease surveillance data.
Quantitative KPI:	Percentage of data completeness for priority non-mandatory data fields for select key indicators for which enhanced data is collected.
2010-11 Target:	80%		2010-11 Actual:	93%
Result: Indicator met.
The non-mandatory data fields are: date of birth, sex, indigenous status, death and serogroup/subtype. In 2010-11, non-mandatory data fields for selected key indicators (tuberculosis, invasive pneumococcal disease, sexually transmissible infections, hepatitis C and hepatitis B) forwarded by states and territories were 93% complete. Although reporting for some data fields (specifically death status and serogroup/subtype) were lower than the overall rate, data were still useful to inform the analysis of communicable disease outbreaks and trends. The department will continue to collaborate with states and territories to improve these data. These non-mandatory data are used to profile how disease spreads in Australia, who is most at risk and to inform policy.
Quantitative KPI:	Percentage of communicable disease surveillance reports completed and disseminated according to schedule.
2010-11 Target:	100%		2010-11 Actual:	100%
Result: Indicator met.

Top of page

In 2010-11, 100% of all communicable disease surveillance reports were completed according to the scheduled timeframes. These included fortnightly surveillance reports for the Communicable Disease Network Australia and annual and quarterly reports for OzFoodNet. The quarterly journal Communicable Disease Intelligence was published on schedule.

In collaboration with states and territories, the department worked through the National Surveillance Committee to improve the quality, timeliness and completeness of national surveillance data. The department also worked with other Australian Government agencies, and jurisdictional and expert partners through the Communicable Diseases Network Australia, to inform preparedness strategies and determine the most appropriate public health responses to communicable disease outbreaks, including tuberculosis, measles, pertussis and dengue fever. This work involved contact tracing of potentially infected individuals and the development of a series of national public health guidelines. Work was also progressed on minimising health care associated infections through ongoing surveillance.

Quantitative Deliverable: Number of meetings with key advisory committees such as the Communicable Disease Network Australia, its subcommittees and other expert advisory bodies.

2010-11 Target: 52 2010-11 Actual: 82

Result: Deliverable met.

The department coordinated and provided support for fortnightly teleconferences of the Communicable Disease Network Australia to share and evaluate the latest information and developments in communicable disease surveillance. Expanded teleconferences were held on a monthly basis, and three face-to-face meetings were held throughout the year to consider current issues and review policy matters.

In 2010-11, the Communicable Disease Network Australia reviewed the work and priorities of its subcommittees and other expert advisory bodies. Up to ten groups operated during the year, with some meeting as often as monthly. For example, OzFoodNet held nine routine teleconferences and three face to face meetings, as well as nine special teleconferences for its multi‑jurisdictional outbreak investigations.

Qualitative KPI: Strengthen national and international expert networks on health protection response.

2010-11 Reference Point: High level of collaborative partnerships amongst state and territory public health units and experts to enhance Australia’s preparedness and health protection response to the global health environment.

Result: Indicator met.

In 2010-11, the department strengthened its national networks by working collaboratively with Australian Government agencies, jurisdictional and expert partners through the Communicable Diseases Network Australia and its subcommittees. The department also strengthened its international networks through its relationship with Australian Government agencies including AusAID and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as international organisations including the World Health Organization and its relevant bodies.

During the European outbreak of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O104:H4 in 2011, the department used its national and international partnerships to monitor the epidemiological and laboratory investigation and to prepare to respond should any cases present in Australia. The department provided advice to health professionals and consumers during the outbreak, shared epidemiological and laboratory information with its national networks, and liaised with German authorities and the World Health Organization.

The department led the development of the Australian Health Protection Committee Strategic Work Plan for 2011–2014. Implementation of the plan will enhance Australia’s preparedness to respond to a range of global health threats.

Qualitative Deliverable: Appropriate health protection responses triggered/prompted by surveillance data.

2010-11 Reference Point: Timely communication of surveillance data to policy development and response planning areas, and decision-makers and expert bodies for further consideration.

Result: Deliverable met.

In 2010-11, the department provided surveillance data and worked with the states and territories through the Communicable Disease Network Australia, to contain communicable disease outbreaks including, measles, pertussis, Murray Valley encephalitis and legionellosis. This involved contact tracing of potentially infected individuals.

Enhanced national surveillance for listeriosis continued during 2010-11 in recognition of the seriousness of the disease and in response to a 2009 multi-jurisdictional outbreak investigation highlighting the need for nationally standardised rapid subtyping of Listeria monocytogenes isolates and for the centralised collection of epidemiological data. OzFoodNet’s National Surveillance Plan for Listeria monocytogenes was endorsed by the Public Health Laboratory Network in September 2010. Enhanced national surveillance facilitated the early detection of a multi-jurisdictional outbreak of listeriosis associated with the consumption of melons that was investigated by the department, through OzFoodNet, in 2010. In response to high case numbers of salmonellosis, the department conducted two multi-jurisdictional outbreak investigations through OzFoodNet, which suggested eggs as a source.

The department monitored usage of rabies immunoglobulin in jurisdictions through a centralised surveillance database and monitored state and territory rabies immunoglobulin stock levels through the Communicable Diseases Network Australia. Following an acute shortage of stock in February 2011, the department successfully negotiated with Australia’s supplier of rabies immunoglobulin to increase Australia’s allocation for future years which will provide a buffer against increased demand.

Top of page
In 2010-11, the department enhanced influenza surveillance systems to better understand seasonal outbreaks and inform pandemic planning. Community monitoring of influenza-like illness, laboratory surveillance, and influenza-associated hospitalisation and mortality monitoring were incorporated into existing systems.

Qualitative Deliverable: Develop preparedness strategies informed by surveillance data.

2010-11 Reference Point: Appropriate data provided in a timely manner to inform strategy development.

Result: Deliverable met.

Following the department’s response to pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009, several gaps in data collection were identified in the measurement of burden and severity. The department enhanced existing national influenza surveillance systems and implemented new features during 2010-11. Influenza surveillance data were analysed and reported by the department on a weekly basis during the 2010 influenza season, and fortnightly in the lead up to the 2011 season in the Australian Influenza Surveillance Report. The report acts as an essential early warning on the level and severity of influenza in the community and plays a role in informing appropriate and targeted public health interventions. These data also allow state and territory health agencies to manage finite health resources such as intensive care beds.

Quantitative Deliverable:	Number of meetings with key advisory committees such as the Communicable Disease Network Australia, its subcommittees and other expert advisory bodies.
2010-11 Target:	52	2010-11 Actual:	82
Result: Deliverable met.
The department coordinated and provided support for fortnightly teleconferences of the Communicable Disease Network Australia to share and evaluate the latest information and developments in communicable disease surveillance. Expanded teleconferences were held on a monthly basis, and three face-to-face meetings were held throughout the year to consider current issues and review policy matters. In 2010-11, the Communicable Disease Network Australia reviewed the work and priorities of its subcommittees and other expert advisory bodies. Up to ten groups operated during the year, with some meeting as often as monthly. For example, OzFoodNet held nine routine teleconferences and three face to face meetings, as well as nine special teleconferences for its multi‑jurisdictional outbreak investigations.

Qualitative KPI:	Strengthen national and international expert networks on health protection response.
2010-11 Reference Point:	High level of collaborative partnerships amongst state and territory public health units and experts to enhance Australia’s preparedness and health protection response to the global health environment.
Result: Indicator met.
In 2010-11, the department strengthened its national networks by working collaboratively with Australian Government agencies, jurisdictional and expert partners through the Communicable Diseases Network Australia and its subcommittees. The department also strengthened its international networks through its relationship with Australian Government agencies including AusAID and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as international organisations including the World Health Organization and its relevant bodies. During the European outbreak of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O104:H4 in 2011, the department used its national and international partnerships to monitor the epidemiological and laboratory investigation and to prepare to respond should any cases present in Australia. The department provided advice to health professionals and consumers during the outbreak, shared epidemiological and laboratory information with its national networks, and liaised with German authorities and the World Health Organization. The department led the development of the Australian Health Protection Committee Strategic Work Plan for 2011–2014. Implementation of the plan will enhance Australia’s preparedness to respond to a range of global health threats.
Qualitative Deliverable:	Appropriate health protection responses triggered/prompted by surveillance data.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Timely communication of surveillance data to policy development and response planning areas, and decision-makers and expert bodies for further consideration.
Result: Deliverable met.
In 2010-11, the department provided surveillance data and worked with the states and territories through the Communicable Disease Network Australia, to contain communicable disease outbreaks including, measles, pertussis, Murray Valley encephalitis and legionellosis. This involved contact tracing of potentially infected individuals. Enhanced national surveillance for listeriosis continued during 2010-11 in recognition of the seriousness of the disease and in response to a 2009 multi-jurisdictional outbreak investigation highlighting the need for nationally standardised rapid subtyping of Listeria monocytogenes isolates and for the centralised collection of epidemiological data. OzFoodNet’s National Surveillance Plan for Listeria monocytogenes was endorsed by the Public Health Laboratory Network in September 2010. Enhanced national surveillance facilitated the early detection of a multi-jurisdictional outbreak of listeriosis associated with the consumption of melons that was investigated by the department, through OzFoodNet, in 2010. In response to high case numbers of salmonellosis, the department conducted two multi-jurisdictional outbreak investigations through OzFoodNet, which suggested eggs as a source. The department monitored usage of rabies immunoglobulin in jurisdictions through a centralised surveillance database and monitored state and territory rabies immunoglobulin stock levels through the Communicable Diseases Network Australia. Following an acute shortage of stock in February 2011, the department successfully negotiated with Australia’s supplier of rabies immunoglobulin to increase Australia’s allocation for future years which will provide a buffer against increased demand.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Develop preparedness strategies informed by surveillance data.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Appropriate data provided in a timely manner to inform strategy development.
Result: Deliverable met.
Following the department’s response to pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009, several gaps in data collection were identified in the measurement of burden and severity. The department enhanced existing national influenza surveillance systems and implemented new features during 2010-11. Influenza surveillance data were analysed and reported by the department on a weekly basis during the 2010 influenza season, and fortnightly in the lead up to the 2011 season in the Australian Influenza Surveillance Report. The report acts as an essential early warning on the level and severity of influenza in the community and plays a role in informing appropriate and targeted public health interventions. These data also allow state and territory health agencies to manage finite health resources such as intensive care beds.

Case Study: Influenza Surveillance in Australia

Influenza or ‘the flu’ is a common, highly infectious respiratory viral disease. Typical symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, fatigue, headache, and aches and pains. Influenza viruses cause annual epidemics, usually during the winter months in temperate climates, causing an increase in hospitalisations for pneumonia, an exacerbation of chronic diseases and contributing to increased mortality. Large scale influenza pandemics have occurred at irregular intervals throughout history, with the most significant, the Spanish influenza pandemic, occurred between 1918 and 1919 and caused at least 50 million deaths.
Since 1994, the department has coordinated the National Influenza Surveillance Scheme. This scheme comprises several systems reporting on various elements of influenza epidemiology at national and jurisdictional levels, in order to better understand the burden and severity of the disease in the community. Collated data on influenza subtypes and circulating strains provides timely information on antiviral resistance patterns and is used to inform the influenza vaccine composition.

A significant influenza season in 2007 identified the need for improvements to surveillance data, especially in the area of severity measurement, and led to the development of an influenza surveillance strategy for the Australian Health Protection Committee. During the pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009, existing and new, rapidly established surveillance systems monitored the unfolding pandemic. Notification data from state and territory health departments and laboratories, and systems to measure the severity of the disease, were critical to informing health responses.

Enhancements to national influenza surveillance systems were progressed in 2010-11, in the areas of community monitoring of influenza-like illness, laboratory surveillance enhancement, and influenza-associated hospitalisation and mortality monitoring. These systems were used during the 2010 influenza season to provide an understanding of the circulating strains in a timely and geographically representative manner. Influenza activity data are published by the department on a routine basis to inform targeted public health interventions. Robust and effective national influenza surveillance continues to be an essential component in understanding seasonal outbreaks andinforming pandemic preparedness.

Top of page

Minimise Risks Posed by Communicable Diseases

In 2010-11, the department continued its efforts to protect Torres Strait communities from incursions of communicable disease arising from cross-border movements between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Through the Torres Strait Cross-Border Health Issues Committee, the department worked with other Australian Government agencies, Queensland Health and the Government of Papua New Guinea, to coordinate health capacity building efforts in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea and improve cross-border communication between clinicians and sharing of communicable disease surveillance information.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Participate in relevant national and international communicable disease preparedness and response fora.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Departmental participation in appropriate national and international fora.
Result: Deliverable met.
In 2010-11, the department continued active participation in a number of surveillance fora with other Australian government departments including AusAID, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The department also worked closely with the Australian Health Protection Committee and its subcommittees including the Communicable Diseases Network Australia and the Public Health Laboratory Network.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Facilitate improved communication and coordination between Queensland Health and the Papua New Guinea Government to address cross-border health issues to reduce the spread of communicable diseases into the Torres Strait and further to mainland Australia.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Increased data sharing between Queensland Health and Papua New Guinea Health Services about the care that Papua New Guinea nationals receive in Australia will improve health care for patients returning home to Papua New Guinea, and reduce further care required in Australia.
Result: Deliverable met.
The department facilitated improved communication and coordination between Queensland Health and the Papua New Guinea Government on cross-border health issues through the Torres Strait Cross-Border Health Issues Committee. The department coordinated the establishment of a high frequency radio to telephone interconnect system to improve cross‑border communication and enhance surveillance capacity in the Torres Strait. The system facilitates timely communication between clinicians on both sides of the border, allowing clinicians to monitor treatment and minimise the risk of communicable disease spread in the Torres Strait. The system enabled real-time communication during the recent cholera outbreak in Daru, Western Province.
Qualitative KPI:	Improve communication and surveillance between Australia and Papua New Guinea.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Establish and maintain communication protocols and regular data reporting between Australia and Papua New Guinea.
Result: Indicator met.
The department, through the Torres Strait Cross-Border Health Issues Committee, facilitated improved communication and surveillance systems to reduce the risk of communicable disease spread to the Torres Strait Islands and mainland Australia. Communication networks were strengthened with health staff in the Western Province Treaty villages and at Daru General Hospital to improve health care for patients returning home to Papua New Guinea. Communicable disease surveillance data continued to be exchanged between Queensland Health and Papua New Guinea.
Quantitative KPI:	Number of regular reports to Australian committees on cross-border activities within the Treaty Zone and improvements on communication links between Australia and Papua New Guinea.
2010-11 Target:	4	2010-11 Actual:	5
Result: Indicator met.
The department provided progress reports to the Torres Strait Cross-Border Health Issues Committee at the committee’s September 2010 and March 2011 meetings. The reports included information on cross-border communication, Papua New Guinea patient statistics and an update on Queensland Health’s progress in developing a framework for common approaches to communicable disease prevention, control and management in the Torres Strait Treaty Zone. The department provided a comprehensive report on activities to address cross-border health concerns in the Torres Strait Treaty Zone to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Joint Advisory Council in November 2010. The Joint Advisory Council is a bilateral forum established to oversee the implementation of the Torres Strait Treaty. The department also reported to two Inter-Departmental Committee meetings on the Torres Strait Treaty in September 2010 and March 2011.

Top of page

Protect Australia’s Biosecurity

The department continued to work with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to develop new biosecurity legislation as part of the response to the One Biosecurity: A Working Partnership – The Independent Review of Australia’s Quarantine and Biosecurity Arrangements Report to the Australian Government 2008 (Beale Report). This work will ensure that human biosecurity arrangements are modernised and adapted to address biosecurity risks posed before, at and beyond the border. In developing the new legislation, the department consulted with key stakeholders, including border agencies, the Office of International Law, and shipping and airline industry representatives. The department also began developing a risk assessment framework to support the new biosecurity arrangements. This work will continue in 2011-12.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Development of a risk assessment framework to support new biosecurity arrangements.
2010-11 Reference Point:	The framework is developed prior to the commencement of new biosecurity legislation.
Result: Deliverable met.
A generic risk assessment framework has been developed to support health protection policy development. Progress has also been made towards developing a risk assessment framework specifically for providing the department’s input to regulated import risk assessments for commodity market access requests. This framework addresses the department’s regulatory requirements under the existing Quarantine Act 1908 and proposed legislative requirements under the new biosecurity legislation. The framework will be finalised in 2011-12, following consultation with Australian Government agencies.

The department finalised a review of Australia’s compliance with the International Health Regulations 2005 in 2010-11. While Australia is largely compliant, further work in relation to determining the health-related capacities of airports and seaports is needed to achieve full compliance by June 2012. The department will continue to work with state and territories and affected industries in 2011-12 to ensure that Australia meets its international obligations, while minimising impacts on industry.

In 2010-11, the department continued to streamline policies and operational procedures in relation to border health. This work was supported by the development of well researched and considered risk assessments. For example, the department conducted an assessment of the human biosecurity risks associated with people who die in transit. As a result, the department was able to establish standing import permits for state and territory coroners, reducing regulatory burden and expediting the import process during a sensitive time for relatives of the deceased.

Qualitative KPI:	Use of risk assessment methodologies in policy development.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Increase in the use of risk assessment outcomes in the development of human biosecurity policies.
Result: Indicator met.
In 2010-11, the department commenced risk assessments to inform policy reviews in several areas of border health, including for: yellow fever, imported human remains, imported human vaccines, and the entry of exotic insect disease vectors on aircraft. The outcomes from the risk assessments for imported human remains and imported human vaccines have been used to inform policy changes and streamline operational procedures at the border.

The department, in collaboration with other Australian Government agencies and international health bodies, undertook a range of activities aimed at reducing the threat of communicable diseases entering the country.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Develop and disseminate policies in relation to border health and minimise the risks through a collaborative approach between Australian Government agencies, with state and territory government and the private sector.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Risks to human heath emanating from international travel and trade are minimised.
Result: Deliverable met.
The department continued to work with agencies, such as the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, to develop and refine policies relating to border health. The department conducted risk assessments on a range of human biosecurity policies during 2010-11, including the importation of human remains and the importation of human vaccines. Assessment outcomes were used to develop more risk attuned human biosecurity policies and operational procedures. The department continued to work collaboratively with state and territory governments, including in the area of officer training, to minimise the risks to human health from international travel and trade.

Quantitative Deliverable:	Percentage of international points of entry with health emergency plans.
2010-11 Target:	50%	2010-11 Actual:	0%
Result: Deliverable not met.
The development and implementation of this deliverable changed during the year. The department initially planned to develop a review and assessment process for health emergency plans prior to engagement with affected international points of entry. However, in order to develop a streamlined process that avoids or minimises additional regulatory burden, consultation with international points of entry will now precede the development of the assessment process. The department commenced consultation with international points of entry in 2010-11 and is on track to ensure that Australia meets its international obligations.
Quantitative KPI:	Number of state and territory government Chief Quarantine Officers who attend the annual face to face meeting.
2010-11 Target:	8	2010-11 Actual:	8
Result: Indicator met.
The department conducted annual face to face meetings with state and territory Chief Quarantine Officers that were attended by all jurisdictions.

Quantitative KPI:	Number of Chief Quarantine Officers and Human Quarantine Officers who participate in training.
2010-11 Target:	40	2010-11 Actual:	8
Result: Indicator not met.
The department continues to renew and improve the training package on border heath issues. The department was unable to deliver face-to-face training to all Human Quarantine Officers during 2010-11; however, relevant information was made available through an online forum. In 2011-12, the department will consider a range of options for the delivery of training, including expanding online resources.

Top of page

Whole of Program Performance Information

Qualitative Deliverable:	Produce relevant and timely evidence-based policy research.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Relevant evidence-based policy research produced in a timely manner.
Result: Deliverable met.
In 2010-11, the department produced and disseminated accurate communicable disease surveillance data, reports and public health resources. The department reported national notifiable diseases data fortnightly to the Communicable Diseases Network Australia so that outbreaks and trends in disease notifications were identified and acted upon by jurisdictions. Data were also summarised and published on the department’s website and in the journal Communicable Diseases Intelligence. The department funded research and data gathering activities in a range of areas. For example, through OzFoodNet, the department provided Food Standards Australia New Zealand with information about outbreaks of foodborne illness informing the development of national food safety standards for seafood, dairy and poultry meat in the Food Standards Code.

Qualitative Deliverable:	Stakeholders participate in program development through a range of avenues.
2010-11 Reference Point:	Stakeholders participated in program development through avenues such as regular consultative committees, conferences, stakeholder engagement forums, surveys, submissions on departmental discussion papers and meetings.
Result: Deliverable met.
The department strengthened communicable disease surveillance partnerships through the Australian Health Protection Committee and its subcommittees, in particular the Communicable Disease Network Australia and the Public Health Laboratory Network. In 2011, stakeholders of the department’s national foodborne disease surveillance network, OzFoodNet, contributed to strategic planning for OzFoodNet through a consultation process involving a survey and submissions in response to an issues paper. The department sought advice and expertise from states and territories, via the Chief Human Quarantine Officers, on the development of new biosecurity legislation and policies relating to the importation of human remains. The department engages regularly with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on human quarantine policies and the delivery of human quarantine services at Australia’s borders. Together with Food Standards Australia New Zealand, the department provided advice to Biosecurity Australia on the human health risks associated with imported goods.
Quantitative Deliverable:	Percentage of variance between actual and budgeted expenses.
2010-11 Target:	≤0.5%	2010-11 Actual:	-6.6%
Result: Deliverable not met.
Delays in the finalisation of procurements due to competing priorities contributed to this underspend.

Top of page

Case Study: Murray Valley Encephalitis Outbreaks in Australia in 2011

Murray Valley encephalitis is a mosquito-borne illness that occurs periodically in humans in Australia and is endemic in the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia. Australia experienced severe weather conditions with extensive flooding throughout much of eastern Australia in late 2010 to early 2011. Significant pooling of water occurred, leading to record numbers of adult mosquito collections and virus isolates in captured adult mosquitoes.
In December 2010, the National Arbovirus and Malaria Advisory Committee determined there was a risk of the disease throughout mainland Australia. Surveillance for Murray Valley encephalitis, through sentinel chicken programs and captured adult mosquitoes, was conducted in New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

Between 1 March and 30 June 2011 there were 14 Murray Valley encephalitis cases notified to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, including two deaths. The map of Australia, below, identifies the locations of Murray Valley encephalitis activity in humans and sentinel chickens between February and April 2011. The cases of Murray Valley encephalitis in South Australia were the first reported cases in the state since 1974.

Early detection of increases in vector mosquito species and virus presence, and early notification of suspected human cases, was essential to planning mosquito control activities and to providing appropriate human health warnings. Public health authorities issued alerts that urged residents and travellers to take extra precautions against Murray Valley encephalitis and other mosquito-borne diseases.¹³³

Figure 2.4.14.1: Murray Valley Encephalitis Febuary-April 2011

Figure 2.4.14.1: Murray Valley Encephalitis Febuary-April 2011
Text version of this chart

Outcome 14 – Financial Resources Summary

	(A) Budget Estimate¹ 2010-11 $’000	(B) Actual 2010-11 $’000	Variation (Column B minus Column A) $’000
Program 14.1: Health Emergency Planning and Response
Administered Expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Annual Appropriation Bill 1)	19,866	19,429	(437)
Annual Appropriation Bill 2 (Other Services)	124,252	154,118	29,866
Special accounts
Human Pituitory Hormones Special Account	140	131	(9)
Departmental Expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Annual Appropriation Bill 1)	13,630	13,488	(142)
Revenues from other sources (s31)	1,974	1,810	(164)
Unfunded depreciation expense	899	483	(416)
Operating loss / (surplus)	-	1	1
Total for Program 14.1	160,761	189,460	28,699
Program 14.2: Surveillance
Administered Expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Annual Appropriation Bill 1)	3,107	2,674	(433)
Departmental Expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Annual Appropriation Bill 1)	8,272	8,187	(85)
Revenues from other sources (s31)	1,198	1,098	(100)
Unfunded depreciation expense	546	293	(253)
Operating loss / (surplus)	-	1	1
Total for Program 14.2	13,123	12,253	(870)
Outcome 14 Totals by appropriation type
Administered Expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Annual Appropriation Bill 1)	22,973	22,103	(870)
Non cash expenses	124,252	154,118	29,866
Special accounts	140	131	(9)
Departmental Expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Annual Appropriation Bill 1)	21,902	21,675	(227)
Revenues from other sources (s31)	3,172	2,908	(264)
Unfunded depreciation expense	1,445	776	(669)
Operating loss / (surplus)	-	2	2
Total expenses for Outcome 14	173,884	201,713	27,829
Average Staffing Level (Number)	171	172	1
¹ Budgeted appropriations taken from the 2011-12 Health and Ageing Portfolio Budget Statements and re-aligned to the 2010-11 outcome structure.

Top of page

¹³³Further details on the latest mosquito-borne disease alerts are available at: www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-arbovirus-news-media.htm

Help with accessing large documents

When accessing large documents (over 500 KB in size), it is recommended that the following procedure be used:

Click the link with the RIGHT mouse button
Choose "Save Target As.../Save Link As..." depending on your browser
Select an appropriate folder on a local drive to place the downloaded file

Attempting to open large documents within the browser window (by left-clicking) may inhibit your ability to continue browsing while the document is opening and/or lead to system problems.

Help with accessing PDF documents

To view PDF (Portable Document Format) documents, you will need to have a PDF reader installed on your computer. A number of PDF readers are available through the Australian Government Information Management Office (AGIMO) Web Guide website.

prev page | TOC | next page