News archive
An archive of news items from the home page.
To make a media enquiry to the Department, please email news@health.gov.au or call (02) 6289 7400 (24 hours).
05 May 2013
Review to Determine Correct Subsidy for Chemotherapy Infusions
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has announced a major review into the way chemotherapy is funded and provided as a way of ensuring cancer patients have continued access to quality, affordable treatment.
03 May 2013
New Community Mental Health Centre Opens in Northern Suburbs
Northern residents will have easier access to mental health services thanks to Adelaide’s third Community Mental Health Centre officially opening its doors in Salisbury.
02 May 2013
Increased Support for Young People Living With Cancer
Young people who are diagnosed with cancer will be better able to get the care and support they need.
01 May 2013
Productive Ageing for Older Australians
The Australian Government is committed to helping older people enjoy active, healthy and independent lives by encouraging positive approaches to ageing.
28 April 2013
Public Servants to mark their contribution to Canberra
Canberra's public servants, past and present, are encouraged to mark their contribution to the shaping of the nation's capital.
23 April 2013
Alzheimer’s Patients to Get Easier Access to Medication
Many of the more than 130,000 Australians who have Alzheimer’s disease will benefit from changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme which will simplify access to drugs used to treat the disease.
23 April 2013
Mental Health Support in Darwin
The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia’s new drop-in centre in Coconut Grove has been opened.
22 April 2013
Australia Leading the World in Addressing Dementia
Australia has been recognised on the world stage as the global leader in addressing dementia.
18 April 2013
New Approach to Evaluation of Over the Counter Medicines in Australia and New Zealand
A new streamlined process for assessing medicines sold over the counter takes effect this week marking a major step towards establishing a single Trans-Tasman regulatory agency for therapeutic products.
14 April 2013
New Anti-Smoking Campaign ‘Stop before the Suffering Starts’
Health Minister, The Hon Tanya Plibersek, has launched a brand new wave of anti-smoking advertising in the Australian Government’s latest world-leading efforts to help Australians stop smoking for good.
11 April 2013
Boost in Support for People with Mental Illness and Their Carers
Australians with severe mental illness, their families and carers will have greater access to support services and other practical assistance locally in their communities thanks to a $121 million boost from the Australian Government.
11 April 2013
Immunisation Rates High But More Work to Do
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said a new report has confirmed Australia had high rates of child immunisation but also highlighted the need to continue increasing immunisation rates, particularly in regions where coverage was below the national average.
11 April 2013
Knox Headspace to Help Young People in Outer-East Melbourne Through Hard Times
Young people in outer-east Melbourne with mental health issues will get better support with the launch of a new Knox headspace service.
10 April 2013
$7.9 Million for Partnership Projects to Improve the Health of Australians
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has announced $7.9 million for 11 Partnerships for Better Health – Partnership Projects including research into medication regimes for kidney transplants, chlamydia testing, work-related asthma and cancer, suicide prevention, and mental health disorders in rural children.
10 April 2013
Australia and Singapore Research to Tackle Emerging Infectious Diseases
A new medical research partnership with the Singapore Government to fight three of the most infectious diseases in the Asia-Pacific region has been announced.
09 April 2013
Australian First: $25 Million National Centre for Cognitive Decline Opened
Australia's first national centre for cognitive decline has been opened.
09 April 2013
Midland Headspace to Help Young People Through Tough Times
Young people with mental health issues in Midland (WA) and surrounding areas will get better support with the launch of a new headspace service.
09 April 2013
National Compact on Female Genital Mutilation
Commitment to coordinated action was affirmed at the National Summit on FGM, hosted by the Australian Government on 9 April 2013.
09 April 2013
National Summit on Female Genital Mutilation
Minister Plibersek's speech at the National Summit on Female Genital Mutilation
08 April 2013
Record Quarter for Organ Donation
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Shayne Neumann announced that Australia’s official organ donor rates have increased to record levels for the first quarter of 2013.
07 April 2013
Supporting Paid Leave for Living Organ Donors
In an historic initiative to support living organ donors, the Australia Government will pay employees who wish to become donors up to six weeks of salary.
05 April 2013
Medical Research Review Released
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has released the report of the McKeon Review - Strategic Review of Health and Medical Research – Better Health through Research.
05 April 2013
Regions Ready for Key Mental Health Initiative
A key plank of the Australian Government’s $2.2 billion mental health reform package is a step closer with preferred applicants being selected for the $550 million Partners in Recovery program.
28 March 2013
One Needle to Protect Against Four Diseases
From 1 July, Australian kids will need only one needle at 18 months to be fully protected from measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.
21 March 2013
Record Number of GPs in Training
This year’s record number of GPs in training will boost the number of doctors in country Australia and develop the next generation of qualified GPs.
20 March 2013
More Scholarships for Aged Care Workers
Minister for Ageing Mark Butler has announced 72 new aged care nursing scholarships as part of the Australian Government’s commitment to boost the aged care workforce.
19 March 2013
Bulk Billing Rates at Record Highs
Bulk billing rates for GP services are at an equal record high, with 82% of GP services bulk billed in the December quarter.
18 March 2013
New Centre to Monitor the Pulse of Australia’s Blood Supply
A new surveillance centre to monitor Australia’s billion-dollar national blood supply has been opened in Canberra.
15 March 2013
New Guide on Borderline Personality Disorder
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler launched a new guide to assist health professionals to recognise and treat Borderline Personality Disorder.
15 March 2013
New Murri Clinic Delivers More Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services
Indigenous residents of the Acacia Ridge area of South Brisbane are enjoying better access to community health services with the opening of a revamped health clinic at the Murri School.
13 March 2013
Government Introduces Aged Care Legislation
Five bills were introduced into Parliament on 13 March 2013 which underpin the Australian Government’s $3.7 billion Living Longer Living Better aged care reforms.
13 March 2013
Government to Establish Chief Allied Health Officer
Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek, announced that the Government would establish the Commonwealth’s first Chief Allied Health Officer to support the work of thousands of important health professionals.
13 March 2013
Religious and Cultural Leaders Unite for Launch of ‘Donatelife…the Greatest Gift’ Community Education Kit
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Kate Lundy and Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King released a national community education kit about organ and tissue donation for Australians of diverse faith, cultural and language groups.
08 March 2013
Government Improves Home Medicine Program
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said patients will benefit from a move by the Gillard Government to strengthen the program that helps patients who are at risk of accidently taking the wrong medication.
07 March 2013
Report Highlights Importance of Medicare Locals
The new report released by the National Health Performance Authority (NHPA) called Australians’ experience with primary health care in 2010-11 reinforces the importance of Medicare Locals.
06 March 2013
Healthy Eating Program Benefits Students
An evaluation of the Federal Government’s Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden National Program shows the real difference it has made to students around Australia.
06 March 2013
South Australians Urged to Make Their Donation Wish Count
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King and Federal Member for Hindmarsh Steve Georganas have reminded South Australian families of the need to discuss and know each other’s organ and tissue donation decisions to make their wish count.
06 March 2013
Strengthening Affordable Housing in Western Sydney
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Mark Butler has opened a new headquarters and training centre for Evolve Housing to help strengthen the delivery of affordable housing across Sydney.
05 March 2013
Aged Care Workers’ to Get a Well Deserved Pay Rise
Older people will be the ultimate winners from a landmark deal that will provide higher wages, better conditions and more rewarding careers for the nation’s 350,000 aged care workers.
03 March 2013
Improved Kids’ Health Check to Begin
The Australian Government is providing $11 million over five years for the expanded Medicare Healthy Kids Check, to give parents the option of talking to a medical professional about health and wellbeing issues they’re concerned about.
01 March 2013
Positive Results in the AIHW Healthy for Life Report
Improvements in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health have been detailed in the latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report into maternal health, child health and chronic disease management.
28 February 2013
An Innovative ‘Teaching’ Aged Care Centre Opens in Adelaide
South Australia has a state-of-the-art teaching aged care centre with the opening of the ‘Adelaide G-TRAC Centre’ at Resthaven Paradise campus.
27 February 2013
Canberrans Walk to Make Their Wish Count
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King is urging Canberrans to make their organ and tissue donation wish count.
25 February 2013
Report Points to Better Health Services for Tasmanians
A preliminary report to improve the delivery of health services for Tasmanian patients has been welcomed by the Australian Government Health Minister Tanya Plibersek and the Tasmanian Minister for Health Michelle O'Byrne.
20 February 2013
It’s a Cracker! New Salt Reduction Targets
The salt content of savoury crackers will be reduced over three years following an agreement between the Australian Government and leading manufacturers Arnott’s Australia, Kraft Foods Australia, PepsiCo Australia and retailers Woolworths, Coles and ALDI.
19 February 2013
Australian Government Welcomes New Zealand Tobacco Move
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek and Attorney General Mark Dreyfus have welcomed the news that New Zealand will join Australia with plans to introduce tobacco plain-packaging laws.
19 February 2013
HPV Message for a Multicultural Australia
Australian school boys can now be protected against cancers and disease caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), under a new program launched by the Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek.
19 February 2013
Subsidy for Groundbreaking Hepatitis C Treatments
More than 130,000 patients will benefit from new and extended subsidies of important medicines each year through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
18 February 2013
Religious Leaders Support Organ and Tissue Donation – DonateLife Week
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King today launched a community education campaign directed to Australians of different religious and cultural backgrounds to highlight among them the importance of organ and tissue donation.
15 February 2013
Boys Get Their World-First Dose of Gardasil® to Protect Against HPV
Australian schoolboys have begun receiving the first of three vaccinations to protect them against cancers and disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has announced.
15 February 2013
More Australians Covered by Private Health Insurance
More than 122,000 people have taken out private hospital cover in the six months since the introduction of income testing of the private health insurance rebate.
08 February 2013
Families Urged to Shop Around for Best Health Insurance Deal
From April, private health insurance premiums will increase by an average of 5.6%, as the government urged families to shop around for the best deal using comparisons available on the government’s health fund website.
06 February 2013
Progress on the Rollout of Low Aromatic Fuel
New legislation to regulate the use of regular unleaded petrol in certain areas of Australia as a measure to prevent petrol sniffing was passed in the House of Representatives on 6 February 2013.
05 February 2013
Helping childcare workers and parents to keep kids healthy
A new guide aimed at keeping children safe and healthy in child care centres has been launched.
04 February 2013
Smiles all Round as ACT Signs up for Public Dental funds
Residents in the Australian Capital Territory will benefit from better access to dental care following a new agreement between the Australian Government and the ACT Government
01 February 2013
Boost for Cancer Research
Australia’s world-class researchers will receive a significant boost in their continued fight against cancer from $10.6 million in new funding for 38 research grants.
31 January 2013
$5 Million for Mental Health Research
Suicide prevention, substance abuse and better mental health planning will be the focus of research efforts at two new Centres of Research Excellence based at the University of NSW.
25 January 2013
Minister for Ageing Congratulates Senior Australian of the Year 2013
The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has congratulated internationally recognised palliative care specialist Professor Ian Maddocks AM who received this year’s Senior Australian of the Year award.
22 January 2013
Graduate Support to Improve Access to Dental Health
The Australian Government’s new Voluntary Dental Graduate Year Program will place 46 dental graduates in public dental facilities across the nation to provide services to patients and gain valuable experience in public dental work.
22 January 2013
Steady 2012 Increase in Organ Donation and Transplantation
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has welcomed a steady increase in organ donation during 2012, resulting in more lives being saved through transplantation.
18 January 2013
Consumers Benefit from Food Label Changes
A new standard to give consumers confidence that nutrition content claims and health claims on food labels and in advertising are backed by scientific evidence became law from 18 January.
15 January 2013
Breaking the Cycle of Depression and Anxiety
A new DVD for parents with mental illness, launched on 15 January, will help them to be open and talk about their mental health issues with their children.
03 January 2013
New Reforms to Help Smokers Quit the Habit in 2013
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has said smokers who had made a New Year’s resolution to kick the habit would benefit from another burst of anti-smoking TV ads, larger graphic health warnings on the new plain packs, and new free smart phone apps.
21 December 2012
Aged Care Strategy for LGBTI Australians Released
The Australian Government has launched the first ever National LGBTI Ageing and Aged Care Strategy to support the implementation of Living Longer Living Better – the Government’s $3.7 billion aged care reform package.
21 December 2012
National Tobacco Campaign and Driver Reviver Get on the Road to Better Health
The Australian Government has announced a national sponsorship partnership between the National Tobacco Campaign and Driver Reviver.
21 December 2012
New Protection on Costs for People in Aged Care
People who enter aged care homes from 1 July 2014 will benefit from greater consumer protection following a Federal Government decision requiring aged care providers to seek approval for charging fees over a certain level.
21 December 2012
The passing of Professor Gavin Mooney
The passing of Professor Gavin Mooney and his partner Dr Delys Weston is a tragic loss for the health community, both in Australia and internationally.
20 December 2012
Aged Care Strategy for Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Australians Released
The Australian Government today launched the National Ageing and Aged Care Strategy for People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds which will help in the delivery of Living Longer Living Better – the Government’s $3.7 billion aged care reform package.
18 December 2012
$127.9 Million Boost for Best and Brightest Medical Researchers
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has announced $127.9 million for 151 grants for ground-breaking health and medical research across Australia.
18 December 2012
Review Finds That More Work is Needed on New Anticoagulant Medicines
A report into anticoagulation therapies released today by the Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek found more work was needed before new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) such as dabigatran (Pradaxa®) could be listed on the PBS.
17 December 2012
Rapid HIV Test Approved in Australia
A new, on the spot rapid screening test for HIV, which will be able to give a preliminary result within a half an hour, has been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for marketing in Australia.
14 December 2012
1,000th Sign-Up for Palliative Care Clinical Trials
Australians with life-limiting illnesses are helping others in a similar situation around the country and worldwide by taking part in trials of palliative medicines.
14 December 2012
70,000 Seniors in Western Australia to Benefit From Funding Boost to Home Care
Seniors in Western Australia will receive more support to stay in their homes thanks to an $18.8 million boost to the Home and Community Care Program.
14 December 2012
Funding Boost to Support People with Eating Disorders
The Australian Government has announced it will boost funding to support thousands of Australians with eating disorders.
14 December 2012
Support for People with Mental Illness to Stay Well in the Community
The Federal and State Governments have announced they would call for applications for a new $6 million project to improve services provided to people with mental health in Tasmania.
13 December 2012
Aboriginal Kids Health in the Territory Improving
A new report has found the dental and hearing health of Aboriginal children in the Northern Territory is steadily improving as a result of health checks.
12 December 2012
Gillard Government to Act on Female Genital Mutilation in Australia
The Australian Government will boost community awareness and education campaigns and review Australia’s legal framework in an effort to stop the barbaric practice of female genital mutilation in this country.
11 December 2012
CEO appointed to the Independent Hospital Pricing Authority
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has confirmed that Dr Tony Sherbon had been appointed as the permanent CEO of the Independent Hospital Pricing Authority.
11 December 2012
New CEO appointed to General Practice Education and Training
Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek, has announced the appointment of Ms Megan Cahill as the new Chief Executive Officer of General Practice Education and Training (GPET).
11 December 2012
Nickol Bay Emergency Department’s Upgrade Completed
Patients will benefit from Karratha’s Nickol Bay Hospital’s Emergency Department after a $714,592 upgrade.
11 December 2012
Release of Chemical Assessments
Action to improve the availability of chemical safety information for industry, government and the community is well underway with the publication of chemical safety information on 137 industrial chemicals by the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS).
10 December 2012
Highest Monthly Organ Donation Outcome Achieved
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has announced that Australia has achieved the highest monthly deceased organ donation outcome since national records began.
07 December 2012
Legislative and Governance Forum on Food Regulation - Communique - 7 December 2012
Australian and New Zealand ministers responsible for the regulation of food have met to consider a range of issues including a revised health claims standard and progress on the interpretive front-of-pack labelling system.
07 December 2012
New Laws Agreed to Regulate Claims Made About Food
Food manufacturers who choose to make claims like low in fat or contains protein for muscle development will have to provide scientific evidence to support these claims under a new food standard agreed to by ministers responsible for food at a meeting in Brisbane on 7 December.
06 December 2012
New app helps you locate a doctor wherever you are
A summer holiday with a child who falls ill can make even the most relaxed parent groan. But a new website and smartphone app now shows you the way to the nearest GP or after-hours pharmacy with just a few taps on a screen.
03 December 2012
New Supplier Adds Reach to Low Aromatic Fuel Rollout
A new supplier of low aromatic fuel has agreed to begin production of a new product from mid-2013 to assist the Australian Government’s efforts to stamp out petrol sniffing in regional and remote communities.
30 November 2012
Big Tobacco should do the Right Thing by Small Business
The Australian Government would not allow tobacco companies to use retailers as pawns in their fight against plain packaging, Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek said on 30 November.
29 November 2012
ANZTPA Implementation Ministerial Council
Communique - Trans Tasman Ministerial Council progresses joint therapeutic products scheme - 29 November 2012
28 November 2012
Community Awareness Grants Awarded to Support DonateLife Week 2013
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has announced $533,000 in Community Awareness Grants which will support 22 organisations to conduct community awareness and education events as part of DonateLife Week 2013.
28 November 2012
Food and Health Dialogue Communiqué
The recent results from the Australian Health Survey reaffirms the commitment of the Australian Government’s Food and Health Dialogue to make healthier food choices easier and more accessible for all Australians.
28 November 2012
Report Sheds Light on Mental Health Carers
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Disability and Carers, Jan McLucas have welcomed the release of a new report on carers of people with mental illness.
27 November 2012
$4.5M to Help Prevent Suicide in Indigenous Communities
Up to $4.5 million in funding for projects to tackle the high rate of Indigenous suicide are now available for application until 21 December 2012.
27 November 2012
First National Mental Health Report Card Released
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler has welcomed the release of National Mental Health Commission’s first National Report Card on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.
23 November 2012
Social Inclusion Week Launched
Social Inclusion Week runs from 24 November until 2 December and is about connecting local communities, workmates, family and friends in order to build and strengthen relationships and networks.
22 November 2012
Building Australia’s Health Workforce - More Medical Specialists
A hundred and fifty new specialist training positions for doctors have been announced as part of the Australian Government’s $346 million commitment to better access to health specialists.
22 November 2012
Continuing Progress on Adopting Low Aromatic Fuel
The Australian Government supports the Low Aromatic Fuel Bill 2012, as a further tool to ensure Opal Fuel is rolled out to all areas where petrol sniffing continues to devastate lives.
22 November 2012
Expansion of Leading Medical Research Institute
Research into the causes and treatment of some of the most persistent and destructive diseases will benefit from the opening in Melbourne of a new seven-storey wing at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research.
21 November 2012
Glenorchy Keeping People ‘On The Go’
Minister for Mental Health, Ageing and Social Inclusion Mark Butler has visited an innovative local project in Glenorchy funded by the Australian Government to encourage healthy eating, physical activity and social inclusion.
21 November 2012
Guilford Young College Tackles Mental Health as Students Hit Exams
As Guilford Young College Year 11 and 12 students hit exam time, Federal Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler took time out to catch up with students and talk about mental health issues.
21 November 2012
Statement on Pricing of Chemotherapy Drug
The Government is committed to providing lifesaving drugs for cancer patients.
20 November 2012
Report to Help Tackle Suicide in Rural and Remote Areas
A new report launched by the Minister for Mental Health, Mark Butler, has found that rural and regional communities face unique challenges in preventing and recovering from suicide.
19 November 2012
New Report Released for Post-Natal Depression Awareness Week
Further research into the economic impact of perinatal depression was launched on 19 November by Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler, as Post-Natal Depression Awareness Week activities kicked off around the country.
16 November 2012
Medicine Subsidy for Sufferers of Chronic Nerve Pain
Around 270,000 Australians will benefit from a medicine used to treat chronic nerve pain, which will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
16 November 2012
Projects to Better Connect Health and Aged Care
Applications have been opened by Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler, for more than $17 million in projects to better connect Australia’s aged care system with the health and hospitals systems.
16 November 2012
TGA Advances Reforms with New Advisory Council
The Australian Government has appointed a group of eminent health care professionals to strategically guide the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) as it implements its blueprint for reform.
15 November 2012
Tasmania Reaches Highest Ever Number of Organ Donors
Parliamentary Sectary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has commended the Royal Hobart Hospital on their significant contribution to Tasmania achieving the highest annual organ donation outcome since national records began.
14 November 2012
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan Consultation in South Australia
Nation-wide consultations with local community and service organisations continue this week (November 14-15) in South Australia to hear first-hand about the broad health needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.
14 November 2012
Kids’ Diamond Jubilee Ward Named at Prince Charles Hospital
The brand new children’s short-stay ward at Brisbane’s Prince Charles Hospital has been officially named in honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
13 November 2012
New Report Shows Economic Cost of Perinatal Depression
New research reveals 1800 Australian parents are diagnosed every week with post and antenatal depression at a cost to the economy of $433 million.
13 November 2012
SPF 50+ Sunscreens to be Available in Stores this Summer
Sunscreens sold in Australia will be allowed to display a new Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating of up to 50+, providing better broad spectrum protection from UVA - the portion of the sun’s UV radiation that causes melanomas and other skin cancers.
10 November 2012
New Aged Care Places Offered as Reform Plan Moves Forward
More than 14,000 new aged care places will be offered across Australia for 2012-13 as part of implementing the Government’s $3.7 billion aged care reform plan – Living Longer Living Better.
09 November 2012
Federal Minister Welcomes Leadership on Medical Interns
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek today congratulated those jurisdictions that are working with the Commonwealth to fund additional medical internship training in public and private hospitals.
09 November 2012
Minister Welcomes Western Australian Funding for Intern Training
The Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek, has welcomed the Western Australian Government’s decision to fund additional medical internship training in the state’s public and private hospitals.
08 November 2012
Official Opening of GP Plus Super Clinic Modbury
The GP Plus Super Clinic Modbury, opened on 8 November, is providing more comprehensive and convenient health care in the local community.
06 November 2012
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Men's Sheds Share in New Funding
Twenty-six Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Men’s Sheds and groups, located in every mainland state and the Northern Territory, have won grants for their local community activities in a special $125,000 round funded by the Australian Government.
06 November 2012
Suicide Support Line Now Available Around The Clock
A phone line funded by the Australian Government will operate 24 hours a day to provide urgent assistance to people at risk of suicide who are participating in the Access to Allied Psychological Services program.
04 November 2012
Government Steps up Anti-Smoking Momentum
Anti-smoking advertising campaigns aimed at the general community and high-risk groups such as pregnant women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are the latest initiative in the Government’s world-leading push to help Australians stop smoking.
02 November 2012
Australia and Gates Foundation Fund Fight Against Drug Resistance
Australia is providing $5 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next three years as part of a project jointly sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to deal with the emerging threat of drug-resistant malaria in the Greater Mekong Sub-region.
02 November 2012
Respite Services to be Extended Across Australia
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler has announced an additional $12.1 million in funding to extend the National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP).
01 November 2012
Baseball League to Tackle Binge Drinking
The Australian Baseball Federation and the Australian Baseball League have formed a landmark partnership to sign up to the Be the Influence: Tackling Binge Drinking campaign.
01 November 2012
Improved Access to Medicare-Funded MRI Services
Thousands of patients, particularly children, will benefit from expanded access to Medicare-funded Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) services.
31 October 2012
Australians Warned of Late Effects of Polio
Doctors and the general community have been urged to learn about the late effects of polio, which can severely affect people 15 or more years after contracting the polio virus.
31 October 2012
New Grants Build on the Work at 58 Men’s Sheds
More than fifty Men’s Sheds across Australia will receive funding from the Australian Government to upgrade their facilities or buy new equipment and tools, in the latest round of grants announced on 31 October.
31 October 2012
New Resources to Help Deliver Better Care for Older Australians
Three new resources have been released that will help aged care workers support older Australians, including updated guidelines on medication management in aged care.
29 October 2012
Guidelines to Address the Trauma of Childhood Abuse
A new set of guidelines that aim to help mental health and social service providers better understand the complex effects of trauma on adult survivors of childhood abuse were launched on 29 October 2012.
29 October 2012
Smoking Rates in Australia Continue to Decline
Smoking rates and unhealthy levels of alcohol consumption are down, but the percentage of adults who are overweight or obese has increased; rates of diabetes have remained stable after trending up over the last decade, but mental health problems and behavioural conditions have risen, according to the results of the Australian Health Survey, issued on 29 October.
25 October 2012
New headspace Program to Help Schools Affected by Suicide
A new suicide support service to be provided in secondary schools across the country will support students and the broader school community in the wake of a suicide.
24 October 2012
Important New Medicines Listed on the PBS
More than 110,000 Australians will benefit from better access to affordable medicines following the Australian Government’s approval of new and extended listings for medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. This includes the decision to extend the listing for aflibercept (Eylea®), a medicine to treat age-related macular degeneration.
19 October 2012
$290 Million Funding Boost for Victorian Researchers
The University of Melbourne and Monash University topped the list of funded metropolitan and regional universities in the announcement of $652 million grants for health and medical research.
19 October 2012
$50 Million for Ageing Research
Health and medical research into dementia, macular degeneration and other age-related conditions will benefit from $50 million in new Australian Government funding.
19 October 2012
$652 million boost for best and brightest medical researchers
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has announced $652 million for 1,141 grants for ground-breaking medical research across Australia.
19 October 2012
$68.2 Million for Research Funding Boost for Mental Health
Health and medical research into anxiety, eating disorders, depression and other mental health conditions will benefit from $68.2 million in new Australian Government funding announced today for 104 National Health and Medical Research Council grants for new ground-breaking mental health research.
15 October 2012
NGOs Called on to be ‘Partners in Recovery’
Applications from non-government organisations to become Partners in Recovery (PIR) Organisations in each of the 61 Medicare Local regions have opened.
11 October 2012
New Website Boosts Patient Access to Australian Clinical Trials
Patients suffering chronic diseases will benefit from the launch of a new website that offers easier access to clinical trials of new drugs, treatments and medical procedures.
10 October 2012
Celebrating World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about mental health issues, combat stigma and encourage people in need to seek help.
10 October 2012
Virtual Clinic to Offer Free Mental Health Counselling
Australians needing help with mental health issues will have access to free online and phone counselling when a new national 'virtual clinic' opens later this year.
07 October 2012
Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness for Tasmanians with Mental Illness
The Federal and Tasmanian governments are moving to break the cycle of homelessness for people with mental health issues with a new $6.6 million project.
04 October 2012
$17.69 Million to Boost Health Workforce in Regional and Remote Areas
Regional and remote communities will benefit from $17.69 million in projects aimed at boosting the healthcare workforce in rural areas, Acting Minister for Health Mark Butler announced today.
03 October 2012
Monitoring the Impact of Changes to the Aged Care Funding Instrument
Growth in funding to aged care providers under the Aged Care Funding Instrument is tracking as expected, following changes made in July.
28 September 2012
Australian University Sports to Tackling Binge Drinking
Australian University Sports is the latest national sporting organisation to sign-on to the Be the Influence: Tackling Binge Drinking campaign.
28 September 2012
Celebrations as Katungul Returns to Community Hands
Aboriginal people on the New South Wales South Coast have welcomed the return of Katungul Aboriginal Corporation to community control.
27 September 2012
Independent Review of Health Workforce Programs
Acting Minister for Health Mark Butler today announced that Ms Jenny Mason would lead a review of the Australian Government’s health workforce programs.
24 September 2012
Government Welcomes Alcohol Labelling Initiative
The Federal Government welcomes the alcohol labelling initiative launched by DrinkWise Australia and the Winemakers' Federation of Australia on 24 September 2012.
21 September 2012
24/7 Crisis Response Service to Ease Pressure on Emergency Departments
The Australian Government and the South Australian Governments are moving to ease pressure on emergency departments by extending a mental health crisis response service to 24 hours and setting up a ‘walk in’ mental health clinic in Salisbury.
19 September 2012
Legislation to be Introduced to Ban Gag Clauses in Not-For-Profit Sector
Legislation will be introduced to ban gag clauses in Commonwealth contracts with the Not-For-Profit sector, ensuring ongoing positive engagement and open debate between the Federal Government and the sector.
14 September 2012
Advisory Panel on Positive Ageing
The Australian Government has announced the full membership of the Advisory Panel on Positive Ageing, comprising a range of eminent Australians with strong expertise in issues facing seniors.
14 September 2012
Communities Tackle Chronic Disease to Live Longer!
The Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, has announced 36 new health promotion projects aimed at increasing awareness of chronic disease and promoting better health in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
13 September 2012
Agreement signed for extra elective surgery in Tasmania
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has announced the Commonwealth and Tasmanian Governments had signed an agreement that will deliver at least 2,600 additional elective surgery operations in Tasmania.
13 September 2012
New Director of NICNAS Appointed
A new director has been appointed to the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS).
13 September 2012
Reach Out for R U OK? Day
Australians are being encouraged to reach out to their loved ones, friends and colleagues and check on their wellbeing as part of R U OK? Day.
12 September 2012
Big Tobacco’s Sick Joke
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has said that new packaging produced by Big Tobacco exposed the lengths that they will go to attract people to their deadly products.
11 September 2012
Lifeline on ABC 7:30
Suicide is a significant problem for the community and an issue we all need to take responsibility for tackling.
11 September 2012
More Support for Families Affected by Suicide
Families affected by the loss of loved ones to suicide can now have access to bereavement assistance through a federally funded program.
11 September 2012
Views Sought on National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan
A discussion paper has been released for input to a new National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan (NATSIHP).
10 September 2012
Funding Boost for Suicide Prevention
On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Australian Government has provided funding aimed at enhancing the collective capacity of local communities to prevent suicide.
10 September 2012
Reaching Out to Help – The First Step in Suicide Prevention
On World Suicide Prevention Day, Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, encouraged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to learn and look for the warning signs of suicide and to ask their friends and family if they need help.
06 September 2012
$10 Million for a Better Workforce to Care for Older People
Minister for Ageing Mark Butler has announced $10.2 million in funding for 26 projects to better prepare the aged care workforce to care for older Australians.
06 September 2012
Australian Transplant Games a Time to Get Serious About Donation
More Australians have been challenged to get serious about their support for the Australian Transplant Games by discussing organ donation with their families and encouraging the gift of life through organ and tissue transplantation.
05 September 2012
Adelaide's Regent Blood Donor Centre Officially Opened
Donating blood in Adelaide has become more convenient with the opening in central Adelaide of the new Regent Blood Donor Centre in the Regent Arcade in Grenfell Street.
05 September 2012
National Volunteer Awards Now Open
The Minister for Ageing and Social Inclusion, Mark Butler, has launched the 2012 National Volunteer Awards which recognise and celebrate Australia’s volunteers.
04 September 2012
Aged Care Teaching Centres to be Created
The Australian Government will provide funding for projects across Australia to create integrated aged care teaching centres.
03 September 2012
New MRI Licences Nationally and a New Facility at the Children's Hospital Westmead
The Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek opened the new MRI suite at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead and also announced 161 MRI scanners in major cities around Australia were set to be granted Medicare eligibility for certain types of scans of some patients.
31 August 2012
Government to Support Dentists who Donate their time for Free
Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek, today announced that the Government would support the work of dentists who give their time for free to help the most disadvantaged get dental treatment.
30 August 2012
Mental Health Consumer Reference Group Moves Forward
The Consumer Reference Group tasked with guiding the establishment of a new mental health consumer organisation met for the first time on 30 August 2012.
29 August 2012
$4 Billion Dental Spend on Children, Low Income Adults and the Bush
More than three million children will be eligible for government-subsidised dental care, in the same way they’re now entitled to Medicare-funded GP visits.
27 August 2012
New $7.5 Million Fellowship to Support Mental Health Research Open
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler announced that the new John Cade Fellowship in Mental Health Research is open for applications.
24 August 2012
Food and Health Dialogue Communiqué
The Australian Government’s Food and Health Dialogue met on 24 August and endorsed a Quick Service Restaurant engagement strategy as part of its work with industry to make healthier food choices easier and more accessible for all Australians.
23 August 2012
Appointments to Organ and Tissue Authority Advisory Council
Mr David Koch has been appointed as the new chair of the Advisory Council to the Australian Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority.
22 August 2012
Donatelife Reaches Out to Australians of Muslim Faith
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has launched a video resource to support Australians of Muslim faith in their decision-making and family discussions about organ and tissue
22 August 2012
Eating Disorders to be More Accurately Reported
The Australian media will now be armed with a quick reference guide to more accurately and sensitively report on eating disorders and mental illness.
21 August 2012
$1 Million to Support People With Cancer
Health Minister, Tanya Plibersek, announced that the Commonwealth Government will invest $1 million to support Australians affected by cancer in 13 new project grants.
21 August 2012
Government Boosts Efforts to Reduce Alcohol Related Harm
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler has announced funding for projects aimed at reducing alcohol related harm in the community.
21 August 2012
Helping More Australians to Stop Smoking
The Federal Government in conjunction with SANE Australia, a leading mental health non-government organisation, has produced materials to help people experiencing mental illness quit smoking.
16 August 2012
Australian Medicare Local Alliance Launched
Australians can look forward to more effective and cohesive primary health care with the launch of a new national body to lead the network of Medicare Locals.
16 August 2012
Cough and Cold Medicine Alert for Parents
Parents have been alerted to take note of important changes in the latest advice on dispensing cough and cold medicines to their young children.
15 August 2012
Important Stage in Broome Hospital Emergency Department Upgrade
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has welcomed the completion of the first stage of an upgrade to Broome Hospital’s Emergency Department – a significant milestone in the project that when completed will lead to people being seen by a doctor more quickly.
15 August 2012
World Leading Plain Packaging Laws Given a Clean Bill of Health
The Australian Government has welcomed the decision of the High Court of Australia to reject the legal challenge by big tobacco against Australia’s world-leading laws on plain packaging of tobacco.
13 August 2012
Final Stage of the John Curtin School of Medical Research Opens
The third and final stage of the John Curtin School of Medical Research at the Australian National University in Canberra was officially opened on 13 August 2012.
11 August 2012
New Youth Mental Health Centres Coming Soon
Young people experiencing early psychosis will soon have access to new world-leading mental health centres.
10 August 2012
Dementia Made a National Health Priority Area
Health Ministers met in Sydney on 10 August 2012 and have agreed to designate dementia as the ninth National Health Priority Area.
10 August 2012
Government Committed to Rural Training for Health Professionals
Rural and regional areas will continue to benefit from a commitment by the Australian Government to facilitating training for medical students and specialists in regional Australia.
10 August 2012
Standing Council on Health Communique
Australian Health Ministers met in Sydney on 10 August for a meeting of the Standing Council on Health. The meeting was chaired by Dr Kim Hames, WA Minister for Health.
10 August 2012
Youth to Benefit From New Headspace Sites
Fifteen new headspace youth mental health services will open across the country to support young people dealing with depression, substance abuse and other mental health issues.
09 August 2012
New appointments to Cancer Australia’s Advisory Council
Three new members have been appointed to the Cancer Australia Advisory Council, along with the reappointment of five current members.
09 August 2012
Students to Learn Mental Health Crisis Signs
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler and Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese today launched the new R U OK? at School program to raise awareness of mental health issues.
08 August 2012
First Sod Turned on New Hospital for Eastern Perth
Australian Health Minister Tanya Plibersek joined Senator Glenn Sterle and Western Australian Deputy Premier Kim Hames to turn the first sod of a new $360 million hospital campus in Perth.
08 August 2012
Minister welcomes How Australia is faring report
The Minister for Social Inclusion, Mark Butler, says the Australian Social Inclusion Board’s 2012 How Australia is faring report tells a compelling story about our progress as a nation.
07 August 2012
NSW Organ and Tissue Donation Register Changes Welcomed
People in New South Wales will now register for organ donation through a single national register thanks to the decision to decommission the New South Wales register.
07 August 2012
Partners in Recovery Program Moves Closer
Minister for Mental Health, Mark Butler, has released funding guidelines for the Federal Government’s $549.8 million mental health program Partners in Recovery.
05 August 2012
Patients Beware: Drug Companies Increase Prices for Some Brands of Medicines
Patients should shop around for their brand of medicine following price increases imposed by pharmaceutical companies on 85 brands of medicines listed on the PBS.
03 August 2012
$7.5 Million for Three Indigenous Health Research Centres
Three new Centres of Research Excellence have been funded by the Australian Government to focus on important Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health issues.
03 August 2012
Mates to Drive Suicide Prevention on Construction Sites
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler announced a $5.24 million national suicide prevention program, Mates in Construction, at a construction industry conference in South Australia.
03 August 2012
National Aged Care Conference Goes Live
Industry experts and advocates will descend on Adelaide to talk all things ageing at the 2012 National Aged Care Conference.
02 August 2012
$516,000 Sunshine Coast cancer centre extension opened
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has opened the $516,000 extension of the Bloomhill Therapy Centre on the Sunshine Coast.
02 August 2012
$7.4 million for Three Mental Health Research Centres
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler announced that suicide prevention, substance abuse and better mental health planning will be the focus of research at three new Centres of Research Excellence.
02 August 2012
Researchers of deadly esophagus cancer to share $42 million grant
Researchers studying the cause of deadly esophagus cancer are among 17 recipients sharing $42.3 million in medical research funding from the Australian Government.
01 August 2012
Aged Care Financing Authority Established
The Australian Government’s aged care reforms have taken a major step forward with the establishment of the Aged Care Financing Authority (ACFA).
01 August 2012
Aged Care Reform Implementation Council Members Appointed
Minister for Ageing Mark Butler has announced the five remaining members of the Aged Care Reform Implementation Council.
01 August 2012
Government Makes New Commitment to Healthy Eating Program
The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden National Program, which is teaching healthy eating habits to primary school aged children all over Australia, will receive a further $5.4 million investment from the Australian Government.
01 August 2012
On-Line TGA Database Provides Information on Adverse Reactions to Medicines
Consumers, health professionals and industry can now access online information about adverse events to medicines that have been reported to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) since 1971.
01 August 2012
World Breadfeeding Week
The Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek, marked World Breastfeeding Week by encouraging Australian women to consider the benefits of exclusively breastfeeding their babies for the first six months of life.
25 July 2012
Headspace for Cairns
A new headspace youth mental health service in Cairns will support young people dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse and other mental health issues.
24 July 2012
Equality for LGBTI Australians in Aged Care
A National LGBTI Aged Care Strategy to support the implementation of Living Longer Living Better is to be developed by the Australian Government.
24 July 2012
Organ and Tissue Health Professionals Invited to Apply for International Training Scholarships
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King invited health professionals working in the organ and tissue sector to apply for international training and development opportunities through the Janette Hall Professional Training and Development Scholarship Program.
23 July 2012
New e-Mental Health Tool Launched
A new online mental health tool, myCompass, that assesses user symptoms, then provides a personalised support program, has been launched.
20 July 2012
Faster Assessment of the Impact of Industrial Chemicals
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has welcomed the launch of a framework to provide a faster, more flexible and transparent approach to assessing the impact of industrial chemicals on human health and the environment.
19 July 2012
Scholarships for Next Generation of Aged Care Nurses
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler called on budding nurses to apply for one of 715 aged care nursing scholarships worth up to $30,000.
18 July 2012
Funding for New Dementia Café in Riverwood
Dementia sufferers in Riverwood and surrounding areas will have an opportunity network and engage in the community through a new Dementia Café funded by the Australian Government.
18 July 2012
Living Longer Living Better in Seven Hills
Minister for Ageing Mark Butler joined local MP Michelle Rowland in Seven Hills to report back to the community on the Government’s $3.7 billion aged care package.
18 July 2012
New Headspace for Greater Western Sydney
A new headspace youth mental health service will open in Penrith to support young people dealing with depression, substance abuse and other mental health issues.
17 July 2012
Community to Receive Almost $1m for Home Care
Seniors in Robertson will receive more support to stay in their homes thanks to a $994,350 boost to the Home and Community Care Program.
17 July 2012
Food and Nutrition Guide Launched
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King today launched Australia’s Food and Nutrition 2012, a comprehensive report on the key components of Australia’s food and nutrition system.
17 July 2012
Headspace to Open in Newcastle
A new headspace youth mental health service will open in Newcastle to support young people dealing with depression, substance abuse and other mental health issues.
17 July 2012
Living Longer Living Better in the Hunter
Minister for Ageing Mark Butler joined local MP Jill Hall today in Belmont to report back to the community on the Government’s $3.7 billion aged care package.
16 July 2012
Record Number of GP Training Places in 2013
The Australian Government will recruit a record number of junior doctors into GP training places in 2013 with selection to 1100 entry places currently underway across the country.
16 July 2012
Transparency Reforms on Track at TGA
The Australian Government today announced that it would establish an Australian Therapeutic Goods Advisory Council later this year to provide broad strategic advice to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), with an emphasis on improving communications between the regulator and its key stakeholders.
12 July 2012
HPV Vaccine Extended to Boys
In a world first, Australian schoolboys will be able to get the successful Gardasil® vaccine, which will protect them against developing a range of cancers and bolster the effectiveness of this vaccine in women.
06 July 2012
Depression? Let me Google That for You
An Editorial from the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing about the launch of the mindhealthconnect.org.au website.
05 July 2012
e-Mental Health Portal Launched
Australia’s first national e-mental health online portal has been launched by Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler.
03 July 2012
Minister Welcomes Release of First Perinatal Depression Survey
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler has welcomed the release of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s survey on perinatal depression.
30 June 2012
Home Care Reforms to Benefit More Than 500,000 Seniors
From 1 July 2012 the Australian Government has full responsibility for Home and Community Care (HACC) services that support more than 500,000 older Australians to live independently in their own homes and communities.
29 June 2012
TGA Applies Stricter Regulation to Joint Implants
Hip, knee and shoulder joint implants will be reclassified as high risk, Class III medical devices from 1 July 2012.
28 June 2012
Better Mental Health and Wellbeing for Kids
More than 700 schools are now participating in the successful KidsMatter primary program, an initiative to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the nation’s primary school students.
28 June 2012
Patient Access to New Medicare-subsidised Procedures
The Australian Government will add three new medical services the Medical Benefits Scheme, providing benefit for hundreds of Australian patients.
27 June 2012
Take a Breath and Think About Respiratory Health
As part of World Spirometry Day activities, Australians are being encouraged to take a deep breath and think about their lung and respiratory health.
25 June 2012
Claims Saying 320,000 Will Drop Health Cover are Wrong
Claims that 320,000 Queenslanders would drop their private health insurance and clog up public hospitals are rubbish, said Health Minister Tanya Plibersek.
25 June 2012
Cost of Medicines to Fall for Thousands of Australians
Around 45,000 people will benefit from new, cheaper medicines following the Government’s approval of eleven new medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
22 June 2012
Philippa Smith Reappointed as Chair of FSANZ Board
Ms Philippa Smith has been reappointed Chair of the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Board.
22 June 2012
World Continence Week Kicks off
In launching World Continence Week 2012 in Melbourne on 22 June, Minister for Ageing Mark Butler said an estimated four million Australians are affected to some degree by incontinence.
21 June 2012
Patients to benefit from 30 additional MRI licences for regional Australia
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has announced another 30 regional licences for Medicare-rebated magnetic resonance imaging services.
21 June 2012
You’re Not Too Old to Donate Life
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King is appealing to older Australians to decide about and discuss their organ and tissue donation wishes with their loved ones.
20 June 2012
$24 Million for Drug and Alcohol Research
Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler has announced $24 million over three years to be invested into alcohol and drug research.
20 June 2012
$8.7 million in grants for rural health practices
Rural patients will benefit from new infrastructure grants to 50 projects across Australia, Health Minister Tanya Plibersek announced on 20 June 2012.
19 June 2012
Peter Shergold Appointed Chair of Aged Care Reform Implementation Council
Minister for Ageing, Mark Butler has appointed one of Australia’s eminent public servants, Professor Peter Shergold AC to Chair of the Aged Care Reform Implementation Council.
18 June 2012
$2.6 Million for Drug Action Week
Drug Action Awareness activities will benefit from $2.6 million to support future events, Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler announced on 18 June. The announcement of this funding, which will also support the continuation of the National Drug and Alcohol Awards and other national drug-prevention activities, marks the start of Drug Action Week 2012.
18 June 2012
Anne Gooley to Lead Development of Aged Care Workforce Compact
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has announced the appointment of Commissioner Anne Gooley as the Chair of the Aged Care Strategic Workforce Advisory Group.
15 June 2012
Getting Tasmania's Health System Back on Track
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has announced a $325 million emergency rescue package for Tasmania’s health system.
15 June 2012
Males Urged to Think and Do More About Their Health
The Minister responsible for male health, Warren Snowdon, has launched the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s second male health bulletin, Health of Australia’s males: a focus on five population groups, during a visit to the Murrumbateman Men’s Shed
15 June 2012
Performance Delivers Organ and Tissue Donation Story
A 30-minute theatre performance called the Gift of Life, launched in Darwin on 15 June, aims to carry the vital messages about the importance of organ and tissue donation and transplantation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
14 June 2012
$26 Million Boost for Mental Health in Western Australia
Western Australia will receive funding from the Australian Government for two new mental health projects under the National Partnership Agreement on Mental Health.
14 June 2012
Headspace to Open in Midland
A new headspace youth mental health centre will open in Midland to support young people dealing with depression, substance abuse and other mental health issues.
13 June 2012
Grants Now Available to Support DonateLife Week 2013
The Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King, announced the availability of $533,000 in Community Awareness Grants to support community-based activities held during DonateLife Week 2013 (Sunday 24 February – Sunday 3 March 2013). DonateLife Week is the national awareness week to promote organ and tissue donation coordinated by the Organ and Tissue Authority as part of the Australian Government’s national reform agenda to increase organ and tissue donation for transplantation
10 June 2012
Investing in Better Health Care for Rural Australians
The Australian Government has made significant investments to help people in rural and regional Australia get the health care they need and deserve, a gathering of rural health professionals has been told.
07 June 2012
Dr Andrew Refshauge Appointed New Chair of Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, announced the appointment of Dr Andrew Refshauge as the new Chair of the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency Board commencing 1 July 2012.
06 June 2012
headspace to Open in 13 More Locations
Thirteen new headspace youth mental health services will open across the country to support young people dealing with depression, substance abuse and other mental health issues.
06 June 2012
Allergic Consumers to Benefit from Allergen Collaboration
Government, consumer and industry representatives have joined together to improve how food allergen risks are managed and help consumers with a food allergy make safer food choices.
06 June 2012
Inaugural CEO appointed to health performance authority
Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek has welcomed the appointment by the National Health Performance Authority of Dr Diane Watson as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer.
06 June 2012
New Collingwood headspace to Improve Mental Health of Thousands of Young People
Young people living in inner Melbourne will benefit from a new headspace service, officially opened by the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler.
03 June 2012
Senate Committee to Consider Social Determinants of Health
Minister for Social Inclusion, Mark Butler today acknowledged a new study from Catholic Health Australia (CHA) which encourages governments to consider the long-term health impacts of all policies and practices to deliver a more socially inclusive Australia.
02 June 2012
Funding to Tackle the Human Health Effects of Hendra Virus
New funding of $3 million for eight projects will enable leading scientists to conduct critical research into the Hendra virus and how it affects humans, following a fresh outbreak in Queensland.
01 June 2012
$21.9 Million Home Care Boost for Seniors in Victoria
Seniors in Victoria will receive more support to stay in their homes thanks to a $21.9 million boost to the Home and Community Care Program.
01 June 2012
$35.6m to Help NSW Seniors Stay Independent, Active and Healthy
Seniors in NSW will receive more support to stay in their homes thanks to a $35.6 million boost to the Home and Community Care Program.
01 June 2012
Empowering Indigenous Communities to Tackle Suicide
The Menzies School of Health Research has been appointed to help the Australian Government develop the nation’s first Indigenous Suicide Prevention Strategy.
01 June 2012
Legislative and Governance Forum on Food Regulation Communique
Australian and New Zealand ministers responsible for the regulation of food have met to consider the progress on a range of issues including a revised health claims standard and front-of-pack labelling.
01 June 2012
Young Australians Have Their Say on National Mental Health Report Card
25 young people from across Western Australia will attend a Youth Roundtable in Perth to have their say on Australia’s first national Report Card on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.
31 May 2012
Call for Submission on Discussion Paper for the Review of the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme
The Australian Government is inviting interested parties and individuals to provide written submissions to the second phase of the review of the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS).
31 May 2012
New Guide to Preventing Chronic Disease for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
The second edition of the National Guide to a Preventive Health Assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was launched in Canberra by Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon.
30 May 2012
Young Men’s Mental Illness Costs us $3 Billion Annually
A new report launched on 30 May shows that young men’s mental illness in costing the Australian economy more than $3 billion each year in lost productivity.
29 May 2012
A Better Start for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Babies and Children
A report released by the Australian National Audit office has confirmed that the New Directions: Mothers and Babies Services program is being effectively administered to improve the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and their children.
29 May 2012
Government funds world-first research into multiple sclerosis
Australian scientists searching for a better way to treat for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) using a world-first adult stem cell technique will benefit from an Australian Government grant.
29 May 2012
New data reveals how long patients wait for cancer surgery
New information on the time Australian patients wait for surgery to treat cancer has been made available for the first time on the MyHospitals website.
28 May 2012
Kicking Goals in the Fight Against Risky Drinking
The Australian Government today announced the expansion of the successful Good Sports Program, an initiative supporting local sporting clubs around Australia to build a culture of responsible drinking at the grass roots level.
28 May 2012
Launch of 'Red Undies Week' 2012
Australians have been urged to ‘take the test’ as part of Kidney Health Australia’s national awareness campaign for the early detection of chronic kidney disease.
25 May 2012
MedicineWise Award Winners
Programs and services which are improving the use of medicines in contexts ranging from Aboriginal health to pregnancy have been recognised with National MedicineWise Awards.
25 May 2012
Noarlunga headspace Opens for Young People in South Adelaide
Young people living in Noarlunga and surrounding areas will benefit from a new headspaceservice, officially opened on 25 May.
24 May 2012
Bulk billing rates at record highs
Bulk billing rates reached a record high in the March quarter, with 81.2% of GP services bulk billed.
18 May 2012
$4.3 Million More for Home and Community Care in Tasmania
Older Tasmanians will receive more support to stay in their homes thanks to a $4.3 million boost to the Home and Community Care Program
18 May 2012
$50 million for Medicare Locals to help rollout eHealth records
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has announced $50 million over two years will be made available to Medicare Locals – networks that support frontline health providers – to assist GPs and other health care providers to adopt and use the Australian Government’s new eHealth records system.
17 May 2012
South Australians Urged to Ask and Know Each Other’s Donation Wishes
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has urged South Australians to ask and know the organ and tissue donation wishes of their family members.
16 May 2012
Another 50,000 Australians take out private health cover
The March quarterly report from the independent Private Health Insurance Administration Council found the number of Australians with hospital cover had increased to 10,455,462.
16 May 2012
Better Access to Care for Tasmanians Affected by Dementia
An innovative nurse practitioner pilot project is improving access to primary health care for older Australians in Tasmania.
16 May 2012
GP After Hours Helpline Begins Service in Victoria
The popular after hours GP helpline has become a truly national service, as Victoria has now signed on, bringing all state and territories on board.
14 May 2012
Schizophrenia Awareness Week
At the beginning of Schizophrenia Awareness Week (14-20 May), the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has welcomed the opportunity the week provides to promote greater community understanding of schizophrenia and mental illness generally.
11 May 2012
New eHealth “learning centre” goes live
An online “learning centre” which details how the Australian Government’s new electronic health record system will work for patients and practitioners has been launched.
08 May 2012
Australian Government 2012-13 Health and Ageing Portfolio Budget Statements and Budget Media Releases
Information for the Health and Ageing Portfolio 2012-13 Budget and related Media Releases are available for viewing.
Budget Media Releases:
- Government Invests in Frontline Health Services
- Blitz on Dental Waiting Lists to Benefit Low Income Australians
- New and Improved Health Facilities for Regional Australians
- Extension of Program to Fight Bowel Cancer
- Budget Delivers Certainty for eHealth System
08 May 2012
Australian Government Invests in Frontline Health Services
The Australian Government will deliver major new health initiatives and continue to support frontline health services for Australian families in the 2012-2013 Budget.
08 May 2012
Budget Delivers Certainty for eHealth System
Australian families will benefit from a $233.7 million investment to continue the rollout of a national, secure eHealth system which will deliver safer and better health services.
08 May 2012
Facebook Joins the Organ and Tissue Donation Campaign
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has joined with Facebook to launch a way for Australians to start a conversation about their wish to become an organ and tissue donor.
08 May 2012
Minister Welcomes Move on Duty-Free Tobacco
The Minister for Health, Tanya Plibersek, welcomed the Budget measure to reduce the amount of duty free cigarettes and tobacco that people are allowed to bring into Australia.
06 May 2012
Blitz on dental waiting lists to benefit low income Australians
The Australian Government has announced 400,000 people will benefit from a blitz on public dental waiting lists as part of a $515.3 million drive in foundation measures.
05 May 2012
Expansion of Program to Fight Bowel Cancer
The Australian Government’s life-saving National Bowel Cancer Screening Program will be expanded under the 2012-13 Budget to provide additional screenings to people aged 60 and 70.
05 May 2012
Healthy Eating for a Healthy Australia
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King urges Australians to think carefully about their food and nutrition choices.
04 May 2012
Grafton’s $5 Million GP Super Clinic Officially Opened
The new $5 million GP Super Clinic in Grafton was opened on 4 May, making it easier for residents to see a GP and giving better access to quality health care.
04 May 2012
Tribute to Organ and Tissue Donation Advocate David Gough
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King today paid tribute to one of Australia’s treasured advocates for organ and tissue donation, David Gough.
04 May 2012
WA Acknowledged for Role in Organ and Tissue Donation
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King has acknowledged Western Australia for its contribution to increasing organ and tissue donation for transplantation as part of the Australian Government’s National Reform Agenda.
03 May 2012
New Acting Chair of GPET Announced
Dr Richard Matthews has been appointed the Acting Chaiman of General Practice Training and Education Ltd. Dr Matthew’s appointment is for a three-month period from 1 May 2012.
03 May 2012
New Organ and Tissue Donation Resources for Illawarra’s Orthodox Communities
New resources for Greek, Serbian and Macedonian communities are now available to help dispel myths and overcome barriers to discussion and decision-making about organ and tissue donation.
03 May 2012
Online Training Available for Suicide Prevention Professionals
Australians who have attempted or are at risk of suicide or self-harm will benefit from an updated and expanded online training package produced as part of the Australian Government efforts to tackle suicide.
03 May 2012
Your Say on Australia’s First Ever Mental Health Report Card
Australians are now able to have their say on the nation’s first Report Card on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, through a new online survey.
02 May 2012
Prominent Scientist and Regulator appointed new Head of TGA
Dr John Skerritt has been appointed the new national manager of the Therapeutic Goods Administration, which is responsible for regulating therapeutic goods including medicines, medical devices, blood and blood products.
30 April 2012
New Blood Processing Centre Opens in Melbourne
Security of the national blood supply will be boosted by a new, $213 million, world–class processing facility based in Melbourne.
27 April 2012
Standing Council on Health Communique 27 April 2012
Australian Health Ministers and the New Zealand Health Minister met in Canberra today to discuss a range of national health issue including workforce, e-health, Indigenous health and aged care.
27 April 2012
Standing Council on Health Workforce 2025
Health Ministers today considered the Health Workforce 2025 Report which models expected workforce demand and supply for doctors, nurses and midwives to 2025.
26 April 2012
Working Together to Break the Cycle of Hospitalisation and Homelessness
As part of a new National Partnership Agreement on Mental Health, the Australian Government will provide the NSW Government $57.6 million over five years for three new projects that will improve the care and support provided to people living with severe mental illness.
24 April 2012
New Perinatal Mental Health Guides for Clinicians
Child and maternal health workers and other frontline health workers will soon have access to new free information resources on the perinatal mental health disorders women can face during pregnancy and after birth.
20 April 2012
More Choice, Easier Access and Better Care for Older Australians
Under landmark changes to the aged care system, more people will get to keep their home, and more people will get to stay in their home as they receive aged care.
18 April 2012
Government responds to the Final Report of the Advisory Panel on the Economic Potential of Senior Australians
The Australian Government has issued its initial response to the Final Report of the Advisory Panel on the Economic Potential of Senior Australians.
18 April 2012
Inala headspace Opens for Young People in South-East Brisbane
Young people living in Inala and surrounding areas will benefit from a new headspace service opened on 18 April.
12 April 2012
New Children’s Cancer Centre Opens at WCH
A new children’s cancer centre at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Adelaide has been opened.
11 April 2012
Therapy Services to Help Older Australians to Age Well
More than 70,000 older Australians will continue to receive subsidised physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and podiatry services for the next three years.
09 April 2012
New Alzheimer's Australia Report Shows Aged Care System is Failing Dementia Sufferers and their Families
The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has released an Alzheimer’s Australia report on feedback received from older Australians, their families and carers through the national conversation on aged care reform.
08 April 2012
Alzheimer’s Australia report on feedback received from older Australians, their families and carers through the national conversation on aged care reform.
08 April 2012
Record Investment in Specialist Doctor Training
As part of the Australian Government’s $390 million commitment to boost the number of specialist doctors across the country, Health Tanya Plibersek has announced that 105 new trainee specialists have commenced in 2012.
07 April 2012
Healthy Ageing a Focus of Australians on World Health Day
World Health Day gives us cause for reflection on positive ageing for Australians with its theme of healthy ageing at a time when the world’s population is ageing rapidly.
06 April 2012
COTA report on national conversations on ageing.
The COTA report on national conversations on ageing is now available
05 April 2012
Funding Available to Improve Safety at Suicide 'Hotspots'
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler today invited organisations to apply for funding under the Improving safety at ‘hotspots’ measure which will allow them to undertake capital works to reduce the risk of suicide at hotspot locations.
05 April 2012
Greater Collaboration between Mental Health Clinicians
The third phase of the Mental Health Professionals Network project has been launched in Adelaide, with the Australian Government providing almost $7 million to the network to support better training and professional development.
04 April 2012
Invitation to Apply for NBN-Enabled Telehealth Programs
Older Australians, people in need of palliative care and cancer patients are among those set to benefit from new telehealth pilot projects designed to be supported by the National Broadband Network (NBN).
04 April 2012
More Local Support for People with Mental Illness
More Australians with severe mental illness will have access to practical support services with $8.1 million in funding from the Australian Government.
02 April 2012
Farewell Jimmy Little AO – An Inspirational Australian
The Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, has expressed his heartfelt sadness at the death of Jimmy Little AO, an inspirational Australian.
01 April 2012
Patients Save Money on Life-saving Medicines
From 1 April 2012, the Australian Government reforms will reduce the price of more than 1000 different generic drugs, which will drop by as much as $15 per packet for patients.
29 March 2012
$2.9 Million to Help Boost Access to Clinical Trials
Patients suffering chronic diseases will benefit from $2.9 million in funding to increase access to clinical trials of new drugs, treatments and medical procedures.
29 March 2012
The Next Generation of Nurses Using Robot Patients For Training
As part of the Australian Government’s commitment to help address the future health workforce needs of the community, nurses and midwives are undertaking training with robot patients that talk, breath and move at new $5 million laboratories at the University of Technology, Sydney.
28 March 2012
International Experts Complement Australia’s Organ and Tissue Donation Reform
Visiting Australia for the 2012 Annual DonateLife Network Forum, Dr Laura Siminoff from the USA and Associate Professor Marti Manyalich from Spain have joined delegates to share their experience of organ and tissue donation reform in their home countries and explore opportunities to further Australia’s.
26 March 2012
Food and Health Dialogue Communique
The Australian Government’s Food and Health Dialogue is continuing its role as a key plank in the Government’s effort to reduce salt intake across the population.
25 March 2012
Reduce Salt for Better Health
Countries around the world are joining forces to highlight the role too much salt plays in the development of many diet-related diseases.
22 March 2012
Celebrating Close the Gap Day
Hundreds of events will be staged across the country on 22 March to mark National Close the Gap Day.
22 March 2012
Health Research Investment Delivering Back to the Economy
The Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, has welcomed research showing Government investment in a leading Northern Territory health research school is delivering a threefold return to the economy.
19 March 2012
Making Sure Our Carers are OK
Australia’s 2.6 million carers will have access to emotional and psychological support into the future with the announcement today that funding has been guaranteed for counselling services for carers for an extra year.
16 March 2012
Private Health Insurance Rebate Mean-test Becomes Law
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek welcomed the passage of legislation through the Parliament to means-test the private health insurance rebate on 16 March 2012.
12 March 2012
New Nepean Hospital Surgical Wing to Reduce Penrith Waiting Times
Residents of Penrith will have shorter waiting times and greater access to surgical procedures with the opening of a new surgical wing at Nepean hospital.
10 March 2012
Virtual Clinic to Provide Mental Health Services Open Tenders Invited
As part of the Australian Government’s implementation of its record mental health package, the Department of Health and Ageing has issued an open and competitive Invitation to Apply for Funding (ITA) to suitably qualified organisations to develop and deliver Virtual Clinic mental health services.
10 March 2012
Women with PIP breast implants to receive subsidised MRI scans
Women who know that they have PIP breast implants, or where clinical advice is that they might have, will from Monday be able to access Medicare rebates for MRI services to assess whether their implants are structurally sound, Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek said today.
09 March 2012
New Emergency Department for Mersey Patients
Patients at the Mersey Community Hospital are set to benefit from a new $5.3 million Emergency Department which was officially opened on 9 March 2012.
09 March 2012
Royal Hobart Hospital Masterplan Unveiled
A once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernise, expand and improve health care services for all Tasmanians has been realised in a new redevelopment masterplan for the Royal Hobart Hospital.
08 March 2012
GP After Hours Helpline Begins Service in Queensland
Queenslanders have been given access to the popular after hours GP helpline, which means that people living in the Sunshine State will now be able to get medical advice from a GP after hours.
08 March 2012
Headspace Perth Officially Open for Business
Australia’s newest headspace has been officially opened in Perth by the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler.
06 March 2012
Grants Announced for Research into Preventive Health
Almost $4 million in research funding has been allocated nation-wide to 13 new projects that will investigate ways to prevent the harm caused by obesity, tobacco and harmful use of alcohol.
06 March 2012
New Data Shows How Often Hospital Staff Wash Their Hands
Doctors and nurses will be given more information about how they can continue to protect their patients from the spread of infectious diseases with the release of new national data on how often hospital staff wash their hands.
01 March 2012
Convenient access to birth control pills and high cholesterol medication
The passing of the National Health (Fifth Community Pharmacy Agreement) Bill 2011means that patients whose prescriptions have run out will be able to obtain birth control pills and high cholesterol medication from a pharmacy if they’re unable to see a doctor in time for a renewal.
01 March 2012
King Warns Against Internet Medicine Purchases
Australians have been warned of the hazards of using the internet to source their medicines and therapeutic products.
01 March 2012
Thousands More Australians Talking About Organ and Tissue Donation
Following the most successful DonateLife Week to date, thousands more Australians around the country have been encouraged to discuss their organ and tissue donation intentions with their loved ones.
29 February 2012
Continued Assistance for Homeless Older People
Nearly 4,000 disadvantaged older Australians a year will continue to receive valuable assistance to help them secure or maintain stable housing and care in the community of their choice.
28 February 2012
Private health insurance premium increases at four year low
The annual increase in private health insurance premiums will this year be the lowest in four years.
27 February 2012
Final Report of National Advisory Council on Dental Health
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has welcomed the final report of the National Advisory Council on Dental Health.
26 February 2012
Praise For Melbourne Heart's Big Heart
Melbourne Heart Football Club has been praised for its part in campaigning for organ and tissue donation.
24 February 2012
Gillard Government’s Cancer Services Commitment On Show
The Australian Government’s commitment to improved cancer services across the nation was plain for all to see when Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King visited the site of the Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre.
24 February 2012
Headspace Hobart Officially Open for Business
Australia’s newest headspace has been officially opened in Hobart by the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler.
24 February 2012
Healthy and Positive Ageing on Show in Tassie
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, and Federal MP for Franklin, Julie Collins have visited the Queen Victoria Home in Lindisfarne, Tasmania to meet residents receiving support to age well through the Day Therapy Centre (DTC) program.
24 February 2012
New Affordable Housing for Glenorchy Residents
A new $5.3 million social housing development, consisting of 18 two-bedroom apartments for seniors, has been opened in Glenorchy. These new homes have been fully funded by the Australian Government through the Social Housing Initiative.
23 February 2012
1,000 new GPs registrars start work in local communities
A record number of medical school graduates have this year begun their vocational training to become GPs under a $150 million Australian Government program.
22 February 2012
Better Access to Aged Care for Regional Queensland
Older Australians living in regional Queensland will be able to receive support and care in their community close to their loved ones and friends thanks to a combined investment in aged care services by the Commonwealth, state, and local governments.
22 February 2012
Compelling Film Prompts Family Discussion of Organ and Tissue Donation
A compelling new Australian film will prompt families to confront the need to ask and know each other’s donation wishes.
22 February 2012
Men's Shed Funding Boosts Support For Blokes
The Minister with responsibility for Male Health, Warren Snowdon, has announced 31 Men’s Sheds across Australia will be helped to fit out their buildings, purchase tools or supplies and to run programs to spread health messages.
22 February 2012
Praise for Canberra’s DonateLife Walkers
Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King, and the Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann, have praised walkers in Canberra’s DonateLife Walk for their commitment to the cause of organ and tissue donation.
21 February 2012
More Young Australians Must Start With the Discussion About Donation Wishes
It was vital that apparent barriers to young adults deciding about organ and tissue donation were quickly removed, the Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King, said during DonateLife Week.
21 February 2012
New Drug to Help Prevent Heart Attacks Subsidised for Patients
A new drug that can help prevent heart attacks and will benefit more than 60,000 Australians is to be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at a cost of more than $100 million over five years.
17 February 2012
Additional Funding for HACC Services in Western Australia
More frail, older people and younger people with a disability will receive support to stay in their own homes and communities, thanks to $15.9 million in funding for the Home and Community Care (HACC) program this year.
17 February 2012
New Headspace Youth Mental Health Service for Nundah
Young people in Nundah will now be able to visit the new headspace – Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm – to chat about what’s going on in their life and seek help and advice if they’re feeling anxious, worried or going through a tough time
16 February 2012
Parramatta Headspace Opens for Young People in Western Sydney
Young people living in Parramatta and surrounding areas will benefit from a new headspace service.
15 February 2012
$39.8 Million Boost For Home and Community Care Across Queensland
The Australian Government and the Queensland Government have announced a $39.8 million boost for home and community care services throughout Queensland.
15 February 2012
Means-test is historic victory for working Australians
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said the passage of legislation to means-test the private health insurance rebate through the House of Representatives was a historic victory for working Australians.
15 February 2012
More Respite Services for Carers Living in Four Corners of Australia
The Australian Government is providing more than $293 million to guarantee the future of respite services under the National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP) including Demonstration Day Respite Services until 30 June 2014.
15 February 2012
NRL Partnership Announced at National Launch of DonateLife Week 2012
A partnership between the National Rugby League and the Australian Government to encourage more people to become organ and tissue donors was announced on 15 February at the national launch of DonateLife Week 2012.
14 February 2012
National Blood Authority - New General Manager Appointed
Mr Leigh McJames has been appointed as the new general manager of the National Blood Authority, the Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King, has announced.
12 February 2012
New System to Crackdown on Prescription Painkiller Abuse
The Australian Government will set up a new $5 million national electronic records system to combat abuse of controlled drugs including prescription painkillers.
12 February 2012
Not-For-Profit Sector Tax Concession Working Group
The membership and terms of reference for a new working group to consider ideas for better delivering the support provided through tax concessions to the not-for-profit sector have been announced.
10 February 2012
Grants Announced To Fight Youth Binge Drinking
The Australian Government is continuing its fight against youth binge drinking armed with $10 million to fund 26 community level projects across Australia.
09 February 2012
Means-Test Is About Fairness
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said the private health insurance rebate should be means-tested to bring about fairness for taxpayers.
08 February 2012
Online Tobacco Ads Stubbed Out
The Senate passed legislation restricting online tobacco advertising in Australia on 8 February 2012.
07 February 2012
New national body to support Medicare Locals
A national primary care organisation, the Australian General Practice Network, will form on 1 July 2012 a new national body for Medicare Locals– the Australian Government’s landmark new primary health care network.
06 February 2012
New Study Finds Shorter Waiting Times May Save Lives
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek has welcomed a new study which shows the Australian Government’s policy of cutting the time patients wait in hospital emergency departments can “save lives.”
03 February 2012
$11 million investment in new Victorian medical school
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek officially opened the University of Notre Dame Australia’s newly built Melbourne Clinical
02 February 2012
More Indigenous Aged Care and Primary Health Care Workers for Remote Communities
Eighty three Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aged and primary health care trainees from the Indigenous Remote Service Delivery Traineeship Program have completed training with new, nationally recognised qualifications in business and management.
01 February 2012
Changes to Better Access
In the 2011-12 Budget, the Australian Government brought in changes to the Better Access program to deliver a mental health package that better targeted and supported some of the most disadvantaged people in our community.
31 January 2012
New Kits Rolled Out To Tackle Ear Disease
A new resource kit to tackle ear disease amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids has been launched by the Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon.
25 January 2012
Senior Australian of the Year 2012
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing and Minister for Social Inclusion Mark Butler has congratulated the nonagenarian Indigenous community leader from north-east Arnhem Land, Laurie Baymarrwangga, who is this year’s Senior Australian of the Year.
23 January 2012
Open for Business: Australia’s First National Mental Health Commission
The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, launched Australia’s first National Mental Health Commission on 23 January 2012.
22 January 2012
NBN to further boost Telehealth Takeup
A new $20.6 million telehealth program using the National Broadband Network (NBN) will provide new and innovative in-home telehealth services to older Australians, people living with cancer and those requiring palliative care.
21 January 2012
New Ads Encourage Australians to Shape Mental Health Reform
From 21 January 2012, advertisements are appearing in newspapers across the country inviting Australians with a lived experience of mental illness to help shape national mental health reform.
19 January 2012
Means Testing Won’t Hurt Private Health Insurance Industry
A new report has found the private health insurance industry increased its premium revenue by $1.25 billion in the last financial year, providing further evidence to Parliament that the industry is healthy and robust, and would not be significantly affected by means-testing of the private health insurance rebate.
17 January 2012
A New Ten Year Plan for Mental Health
Australians have been invited to help carve out the future of our mental health system with the release of the draft Ten-Year Roadmap for National Mental Health Reform for public consultation.
16 January 2012
Australia Reaches 1000 Organ Transplant Recipients in 2011
More than 1000 Australian lives were saved or improved through organ transplants in 2011.
16 January 2012
Coalition Set to Stop Closing The Gap
Minister for Indigenous Health Warren Snowdon said comments by coalition Senator Nigel Scullion that a key role driving the Australian Government's push to reduce smoking rates should be scrapped prove again the Coalition will put the interests of big tobacco before the wellbeing of Australians.
07 January 2012
New information phone line for women concerned about their breast implants - 1800 217 257
The Gillard Government today announced a new hotline for women concerned about their breast implants.
04 January 2012
Make Good on New Year’s Weight Loss Resolutions
Australians who made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight can count on some help to reach their target weight.
02 January 2012
Pregnancy, Birth & Baby Helpline is of great assistance to new parents
Parents celebrating the arrival of a baby in the New Year are reminded about the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby Helpline – 1800 882 436.
01 July 2010
Previous Healthcare Identifiers Service Announcements
Previous ‘what’s new’ announcements on the Healthcare Identifiers Service
22 September 2004
Departmental Records
Links to indexed listings of Australian Government Department of Health & Ageing and other relevant portfolio agency's files, from 2004 onwards.
