New national committee to strengthen digital health safety

New national committee to strengthen digital health safety

20 Mar 2026

The National Clinical Governance Committee for Digital Health has been set up by the Australian Digital Health Agency to guide how digital tools are used safely in healthcare. Its focus will include improving clinical standards while making sure patients can still access new technologies.

The committee will look at three key areas: information sharing through My Health Record, patient safety in telehealth and virtual care, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

It will also consider changes to how health information is shared, including expanding the current “share by default” system, where many pathology and imaging results are automatically uploaded for patients to access more quickly.

Each focus area will have its own advisory group, helping provide expert advice on safe and responsible use of digital health tools and emerging technologies.

The committee will be chaired by GP and Chief Clinical Adviser at the agency, Dr Amandeep Hansra. She said the goal is to ensure innovation in healthcare is backed by strong clinical safety and quality.

ADHA CEO Amanda Cattermole said the group will play an important role in guiding government decisions as digital health continues to evolve.

Around 40 organisations are involved, including government representatives, medical colleges, tech experts, and consumer groups. This also includes the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, represented by its President, Dr Michael Wright.

The committee will also work alongside key bodies like the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care to help ensure digital health systems remain safe and effective for patients.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA)