Latest news
Supporting rural health and medical research
Learn how the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) supports research that improves the diagnosis, treatment and care of people in regional, rural and remote communities.
Webinar: Learn how we are supporting big ideas through the Frontier Health and Medical Research initiative
We invite you to join our webinar on the Medical Research Future Fund’s (MRFF) Frontier Health and Medical Research initiative on 25 October 2024.
$14 million for mental health research
The Australian Government is investing $14 million in research to protect the mental health of generations to come. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
COPD Clinical Care Standard
Launch of Australia’s first standard of care for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Changes to accessing vapes in Australia from 1 October 2024
From 1 October 2024, the way you access vapes in Australia is changing.
Register for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) 2025–27 extension webinar
We are hosting a webinar for CHSP providers on the 2025–27 grant extension process and update on what the new Aged Care Act will mean for the CHSP.
Insights into researchers supported by the Medical Research Future Fund
Learn about the diversity of researchers who have applied to, and are supported by, the Medical Research Fund (MRFF).
Statement of Expectations for the National Rural Health Commissioner released
The Australian Government’s Statement of Expectations for the National Rural Health Commissioner is now available.
Take part in the quality indicators for in-home aged care pilot
We are looking for in-home aged care providers to take part in a pilot to test quality indicators.
Panel to advise on funding for Australian brain cancer research
A new expert advisory panel will inform funding priorities for the Medical Research Future Fund’s (MRFF) Australian Brain Cancer Mission.
Act now for a dementia-friendly future during Dementia Action Week
This week is Dementia Action Week (16–22 September 2024) and the theme is ‘act now for a dementia friendly future’.
Registrations now open for the National Medicines Symposium 2024
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has opened registrations for the National Medicines Symposium 2024.
Report on the Genomics Health Futures Mission
Read about the review of the Medical Research Future Fund’s (MRFF) Genomics Health Futures Mission.
$71 million for clinical trials and research into the best multidisciplinary models of primary care
Applications are open for 2 new Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant opportunities.
Australian Paralympic athletes inspire at Paris 2024
Congratulations to our Australian Paralympians who made us proud in Paris.
Milestone reached for new aged care law
The Australian Government has introduced the Aged Care Bill 2024 to Parliament. The Bill is for a new Aged Care Act – the main law that sets out how the aged care system operates. It will deliver major aged care reforms.
Take part in the Monthly Care Statements software pilot
We are looking for residential aged care providers and software vendors to take part in a software pilot to automate Monthly Care Statements.
$55 million for stem cell therapies, data infrastructure and research into rheumatoid arthritis
The Australian Government is investing $55.24 million in projects that will lead to new treatments and therapies for our community. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Be aware of aged care scams
We are aware of scammers targeting older people and their families by impersonating aged care providers.
Have your say about MBS Online
We invite MBS Online users to take part in a survey on the user experience of the website.
Policy on Medical Research Future Fund and NHMRC outcomes released under media embargo
Do you know what to do when a Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) or National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funding outcome is under media embargo?
Let’s talk eye and tissue donation
Each year the gift of donated tissues, including eye tissue, changes thousands of Australian lives. This week, we’re shining a light on eye and tissue donation and how it benefits Australians.
$76 million for critical research infrastructure
Apply for funding under the Medical Research Future Fund’s (MRFF) 2024 National Critical Research Infrastructure grant opportunity from 4 October 2024.
Major Sporting Events Legacy Framework now available
The Major Sporting Events Legacy Framework outlines why the Commonwealth supports major international sporting events of national significance in Australia. It also provides hosts with planning and funding application guidance for these events in the future.
New ‘Super Kids’ ad helps families understand the importance of childhood immunisations
The Australian Government has launched new advertising for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and carers reminding them about the importance of childhood vaccinations.
Cheer on our Australian Paralympic athletes at Paris 2024
Get behind the Australian team's quest for success at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games from 28 August – 8 September.
The Quality Use of Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Pathology (QUDTP) Program – Grant opportunities now open
Applications are now open for the QUDTP grant opportunities for the Health Professional Education and Consumer Health Literacy streams.
Have your say about the draft autism health roadmap
We’re seeking your views on our draft National Roadmap to Improve the Health and Mental Health of Autistic People.
Supporting consumer involvement in health and medical research
Learn how we are supporting consumer involvement in research funded by the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Australian athletes shine at Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Congratulations to our Australian athletes who competed in our nation’s most successful Olympic Games in history.
$5.5 million investment in the health of Australian newborns
The Australian Government is investing $5.5 million into a newborn screening platform that will screen for hundreds of life-threatening genetic illnesses at birth. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Join our Medical Research Future Fund webinar for research administration officers
We invite you to join our next Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Research Administration Officer (RAO) Webinar on 29 August 2024.
General practices: Help us promote our life-saving cancer screening programs
We have sent cancer screening packs to more than 7,000 general practices, and are seeking your help to promote our life-saving cancer screening programs.
Be counted as part of the Health and Medical Research Workforce Audit
Are you a health and medical researcher or do you support health and medical research activities? Have you had these roles in the past but left to work in another sector? If so, we want to hear from you.
Update on Pathology Accreditation Standards
Important information for healthcare providers and pathology laboratories regarding changes to the ‘Requirements for Cervical Screening (First edition 2023)’ from 1 August 2024.
Seeking to improve and increase rural surgical training
The Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner (ONRHC) and the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) held a National Rural Surgeons’ Training and Retention Workshop in February 2024. The summary and outcomes paper from the workshop is now available.
$19 million for research using mRNA to prevent cancer and treat disease
The Australian Government is investing over $19 million into research that uses mRNA – the medical technology that underpins the Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccines. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Have your say on aged care quality indicators
We’re looking for volunteers to take part in one-hour online focus groups to get feedback on the aged care quality indicators.
Prepare clients for 3G network switch off
From 1 September 2024, major telecommunications providers will be switching off their 3G network. This may impact older people using 3G enabled devices, such as personal medical or alert alarms. Find out how you can prepare.
Hearing Services Program provider notice – Practitioner changes following the ACAud and HAASA merger
Providers to note recent program updates to align with the merger of ACAud and HAASA.
Commitment to equity on sex, gender, variations of sex characteristics and sexual orientation
We have released a joint statement with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to help make health and medical research more inclusive.
New incentive payment for general practitioners to ensure better health services for aged care residents
The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive supports aged care residents to receive regular visits from their general practitioner (GP) and the care team with an ongoing care plan.
Webinars on cervical screening for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients
NACCHO are hosting two CPD accredited webinars for healthcare workers on the cervical screening self-collection option. The webinars will focus on how to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women and people with a cervix in their cervical screening.
$53.6 million for research into women’s health, chronic pain and alcohol use
Applications are open for three new Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant opportunities.
Indigenous Australian athletes set to inspire as Paris 2024 approaches
This week, Australians across the country come together to celebrate NAIDOC Week and reflect on the contributions of Indigenous Australians.
Hearing Service Program 2024 Public Consultation
The Hearing Service Program publicly consulted on draft proposals to simplify and improve program service items and program standards. The results and themes are summarised here.
Save the date for DonateLife Week 2024
It’s time to grab your calendar and highlight Sunday 28 July to Sunday 4 August 2024 as DonateLife Week. We encourage all Australians to register as organ and tissue donors and be the reason someone else gets a second chance at life.
Guide for best practice design in residential aged care
The National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines outline practical changes aged care providers can make to improve residents’ quality of life.
Contribute to a new era in Australian health and medical research
We have joined with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to strengthen Australia’s world-leading research capability under a new structure. You can contribute by nominating for our new NHMRC-MRFF joint advisory committees.
Equity in cervical screening webinar
Healthcare providers are invited to attend a webinar on best practice cervical screening for people with disability.
Nominate someone inspiring for an Australian of the Year Award
Nominate an inspiring older person or someone making a difference to the lives of older people for a 2025 Australian of the Year Award.
Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships
Are you a registered nurse or midwife looking to develop your skills?
Appointment of National Rural Health Commissioner
Professor Jenny May AM appointed Australia’s National Rural Health Commissioner.
New Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy published
The Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy and Action Plan 2024–2029, sets our direction to deliver the highest quality, person-centred care for older people. This will drive a sustainable and productive care and support economy, through data and digital innovation.
$20 million to move digital health research from the lab into health care
The Australian Government is investing almost $20 million to commercialise digital health research projects that will transform health care in Australia. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
On-site pharmacists in residential aged care homes
Community pharmacies and aged care providers can now employ credentialed pharmacists to work on-site in residential aged care homes.
Have your say on our National Allied Health Workforce Strategy
Are you interested in Australia's allied health workforce? Have your say on the National Allied Health Workforce Strategy that we are currently developing. Consultation is open till 9 July 2024.
Have your say: Quality indicators for in-home aged care
We are expanding the National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program into in-home aged care. Public consultation is now open to decide on the new quality indicators. Find out how to have your say.
National Immunisation Program (NIP) Meningococcal ACWY changes from 1 July 2024
MenQuadfi® will be funded through the NIP for adolescents aged 14 to 19 years
Changes to vaping in Australia from 1 July
From 1 July 2024, vapes can only be sold in Australia by pharmacies.
2024-25 Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) Manual
A new look CHSP Manual for 2024-25 is now available
$57 million for research to transform health care using the power of AI and to fight genetic disease
The Australian Government is investing almost $30 million in research into how the healthcare system can use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve people’s lives. It is also providing $27 million for genomics research to improve the diagnosis of genetic disease and cancer. Funding is from MRFF.
Protect our older community with a COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination rates are lower than needed to protect our older community, particularly aged care residents.
Medical Research Future Fund supports new biotech company tackling hard-to-treat cancers
Thanks to funding from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), Ternarx will use world-leading technology to target difficult to treat cancers.
Have your say on national standards for counsellors and psychotherapists
Consultation is now open on the national standards for counsellors and psychotherapists.
Have your say on the Home Care Package Program Activity Survey
We want to hear from all Home Care Package (HCP) providers to better understand the volume of their current service delivery.
National ‘Give Up For Good’ campaign launched to tackle smoking and vaping
The Australian Government has launched a new national public health campaign to encourage people to give up smoking and vaping for good.
Experts to advise on traumatic brain injury research priorities
A new expert advisory panel will inform the future of Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) priorities for traumatic brain injury research.
Data on Medical Research Future Fund funding for early to mid-career researchers
A report on the Medical Research Future Fund’s (MRFF) 2023 Early to Mid-Career Researchers grant opportunity is now available.
$34 million for research to improve primary care and chronic pain treatment and to better understand long COVID
The Australian Government is investing $19.6 million for research into primary health care and nearly $14.5 million for research into the impacts of long COVID. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
New national campaign launched to help young people quit vaping
The Australian Government has launched a new public health campaign to encourage young people to stop vaping – and not take it up in the first place.
Hearing Services Program provider notice – Schedule of Service Items and Fees 2024–25
The Schedule of Service Items and Fees 2024–25 is available. There are new updates to evidence and service requirements.
Progress towards the National Lung Cancer Screening Program
Australia’s first new cancer screening program in 20 years, the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) is on track to start in July 2025.
Residential aged care homes can offer Monthly Care Statements from October
From October 2024, we encourage all residential aged care homes to voluntarily offer Monthly Care Statements to improve communication with residents and their representatives.
Have your say on our mission to improve cardiovascular health
We are seeking feedback on the Medical Research Future Fund’s (MRFF) $220 million Cardiovascular Health Mission.
Cervical screening self-collection
Healthcare practices and clinics offering cervical screening are encouraged to set themselves up to support patient screening choice.
A FREE life-saving test will soon be available to people aged 45 to 49
Bowel cancer is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer and around 15,500 Aussies are diagnosed with the disease every year. From 1 July 2024, 1.6 million Australians aged 45 to 49 will be able to join the Australian Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
Helping newborn babies to start breathing
One in ten newborns need help to start breathing at birth. Australian company ResusRight is developing a world-first portable resuscitation monitor. The Nemo monitor shows paramedics and birth attendants how much air to give the baby, helping to avoid injury or death.
Investing in today’s research for tomorrow’s health care
Read how the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) 3rd 10-year Investment Plan will support Australian research to ensure Australians receive the highest quality health care.
Draft new Aged Care Act consultation feedback report available
Our consultation on the draft new Aged Care Act closed on 8 March 2024. Read about what we heard and what will happen next with the Act.
Expansion of the National Sign Language Program (NSLP)
From 1 July 2024, the NSLP will include sign language interpreting and captioning services for health and medical appointments.
Consultation for the Review of the Australian Sports Commission Act 1989 now open
We invite interested stakeholders to participate in the review.
Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP) – Thin Markets, Multiple Streams results
We have announced the results of the ACCAP Thin Markets, Multiple Streams Grant Opportunity. Find out how many applications we received and which aged care providers received grants.
Free palliative care education and training
Everyone who works in health and aged care has an important role in providing high-quality, person-centred palliative care.
National Palliative Care Week 2024
It’s National Palliative Care Week – a timely reminder that it’s never too soon to start the conversation about matters of life and death.
Aged care design ideas competition – Winners announced
We have announced the winners of the ‘Reimagining Where We Live’ design ideas competition.
$10 million for research to address areas of unmet health need using existing data infrastructure in new ways
Apply for funding under the 2024 Research Data Infrastructure grant opportunity from 15 July 2024. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Australia’s newborn bloodspot screening programs to include new conditions
Australia's health ministers have agreed that state and territory newborn bloodspot screening programs will screen for more conditions.
Budget 2024–25 information
Budget 2024–25 information for the Health and Aged Care portfolio is now available.
Call for nominations for the First Nations Health Governance Group
We will partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders through the new First Nations Health Governance Group to improve health outcomes. We are seeking nominations from interested Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander leaders to join the group.
AHPPC statement on e-cigarettes – 10 May 2024
Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) statement on the public health risks of e-cigarettes.
Helping the Northern Rivers community to heal after the 2022 floods
The Australian Government is providing $3.8 million to help over 200 people left with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the floods. Funding is from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Video message from health minister: nominate a Medicare Champion now!
Do you know a person, team or practice who goes above and beyond to improve the health of their community? Nominate them for a Stronger Medicare Award.
Transforming health and medical research in Australia
The Australian Government is investing $1.89 billion, and will develop a national strategy, to transform health and medical research in Australia.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly’s interview on ABC News Breakfast on 30 April 2024
Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly’s interview with Michael Rowland on ABC News Breakfast about getting vaccinated against influenza (flu).
Express interest in the Menu and Mealtime Review Program by 10 May
Are you a residential aged care provider? Express your interest in receiving a free menu and mealtime review. Expressions of interest close on 10 May 2024.
Consumer Health Literacy and Health Professional Education Grant Opportunity Forum presentation
Learn about the forum we hosted for stakeholders interested in the Consumer Health Literacy or Health Professional Education Grant Opportunity.
Expansion of the National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP) Program
From Monday 29 April 2024, the NIPVIP Program will be expanded to allow pharmacies to claim a payment for the off-site administration of National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccinations in residential aged care and disability homes.
Time to get your flu vaccine
A statement by the Head of the interim Australian Centre for Disease Control Professor Paul Kelly.
Scope of Practice Review Issues Paper 2 – call for submissions
We are now calling for submissions in response to Issues Paper 2
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