In Practice: DVA removes prior approval for some health services
15 Jan 2026
Fake rabies vaccine in India
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has warned of a counterfeit rabies vaccine, Abhayrab, circulating in India since 2023. The fake vaccine differs in formulation, packaging, labelling, and manufacturing, and may not provide full protection. Travellers who received Abhayrab (batch KA24014, or where the batch is unknown) from 1 November 2023 onwards are advised to get replacement doses. While the risk to Australian travellers is low, ATAGI recommends a precautionary approach due to the potentially severe consequences of rabies.
DVA fee schedule reminder
The DVA confirms that its published fee schedules are the authoritative source for provider fees. GPs should refer to these schedules to ensure they are claiming the correct fees and maintain consistency across services.
$300 FPS CPD subsidy for GPs
The General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration (GPMHSC) is offering a limited number of $300 subsidies to GPs completing Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS) CPD. GPs must complete six hours of FPS CPD each triennium to maintain registration. Eligible GPs will be reimbursed $300 after completing an accredited activity. For details, email mentalhealth@racgp.org.au.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) / Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) / ATAGI