16 Jul 2026
Better Cancer Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, but Gaps Remain
Recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are improving. While fewer people are being diagnosed with and dying from cancer than in previous years, important health gaps still remain. The findings also highlight where more targeted support and better access to care are needed.
15 Jul 2026
RSV becomes Australia's most reported respiratory virus this winter
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has become Australia's most commonly reported respiratory infection this winter, overtaking both influenza and COVID-19 for the first time since national reporting began in 2021.
15 Jul 2026
Deadline extended for Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council applications
The Australian Government has extended the application deadline for people interested in joining the Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council. Expressions of interest will now close on Sunday, 19 July 2026, at 11:30 pm AEST.
15 Jul 2026
Rural GPs to Receive Training for Sight-Saving Eye Injections
GPs and Rural Generalists (RGs) could soon receive specialised training to provide intravitreal injections (IVIs) in rural and remote Australia. The new pilot program aims to improve access to essential eye treatment for patients who currently face long travel distances or limited specialist services.
15 Jul 2026
TGA issues penalties over unlawful melatonin imports
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued five infringement notices totalling $99,000 to Acacia Pharmacy Pty Ltd for the alleged unlawful importation of unapproved melatonin products under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989. The penalties were paid in June 2026.
15 Jul 2026
Debate continues over bulk-billing as MP praised for local advocacy
Federal Health and Ageing Minister Mark Butler has praised Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters for her efforts to encourage more GP clinics to bulk bill, highlighting a significant increase in bulk-billing rates across the region.
15 Jul 2026
Senate Pushes for More Flexible End-of-Life Care at Home
Older Australians approaching the end of life could receive more flexible support at home if a new Senate recommendation is adopted.
15 Jul 2026
Revised criminal history registration standard now in effect
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and the National Boards have introduced a revised Criminal History Registration Standard, which is now in effect.
14 Jul 2026
Round 3 Support at Home Grants Open for Aged Care Providers
Aged care providers can now apply for Round 3 of the Support at Home Thin Markets Grants, with more than $311 million available during the 2026–27 financial year.
14 Jul 2026
MyMedicare Updates Patient Registration Exemption Process
General practices can now use updated MyMedicare registration exemptions to help patients who cannot meet the standard eligibility requirements because of exceptional circumstances.