PBS listing delivers new breast cancer treatment option for Australian women

The Albanese Government is continuing to deliver cheaper medicines with thousands of women expected to benefit from expanded access to a treatment on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
 
From 1 October 2026, Triptorelin 3.75mg (Diphereline®) will become available on the PBS for the treatment[GA1]  of a range of women’s health conditions, including breast cancer, endometriosis and uterine fibrosis.
 
The expanded PBS listing of Triptorelin will provide certainty for thousands of women who have been unsure of their treatment options with the uncertainty around the listing of  Zoladex 3.6mg Implant, which is currently scheduled to be delisted from the PBS from 1 November 2026 at the request of its pharmaceutical sponsor.
 
At a special meeting in July 2026, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee recommended an expanded (unrestricted benefit) PBS listing for Triptorelin, to provide an alternative treatment for women
 
In 2025, around 13,580 Australians accessed Zoladex 3.6mg Implant or a comparable treatment on the PBS.
 
The expanded PBS listing means Triptorelin will be available as an alternative monthly treatment at PBS prices.
 
Without PBS subsidy, patients could pay more than $1,370 per script. Now it will cost no more than $25 per script.
 
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
 
“Our government is committed to better health care for Australian women.
 
“We know thousands of women were concerned about the prospect of losing access to the particular Zoladex treatment which is why our government has taken action to find an alternative treatment for women.
 
“This expanded treatment option will provide certainty to women and ensure they can continue to access a monthly treatment option at an affordable price.”
 
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White:
 
“We understand how important it is to have certainty when it comes to your health and women have been concerned about the changes to Zoladex and what that could mean for their treatment.  
 
“Women should be able to access the medicines they need without cost being a barrier, particularly when they are managing conditions like breast cancer and endometriosis. 
 
“Women’s health is a priority for our government, and we’ll continue to make sure women have access to affordable treatment, more choice and better care."
 
Quotes attributable to Breast Cancer Network Australia Director Policy, Vicki Durston:
 
"Today’s announcement that there will be a monthly alternative, triptorelin (3.75mg), available on the PBS from 1 October 2026, provides welcome relief to women and restores their trust that a safe and effective drug is available come 1 October.

“We acknowledge the work of PBAC, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Ipsen, Minister Butler and his office, who heard the impact directly from Breast Cancer Network Australia's consumers and clinicians and responded to this critical issue.

“We welcome the PBS listing of triptorelin and this listing provides much-needed certainty. Women should never be left asking whether a medicine they depend on will still be there whilst they need it."