15 May 2026
Australia seeing rising demand for palliative care, AIHW reports show
New national reports released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) show that demand for palliative care in Australia is rising quickly, alongside steady improvements in the quality of care being delivered.
15 May 2026
Hantavirus travellers return: what GPs need to know
Six passengers linked to a hantavirus-related cruise ship have been repatriated to Australia and are currently in quarantine, raising questions for general practice about potential risk and response.
15 May 2026
RSV immunisation program cuts newborn hospital admissions across Australia
Australia’s RSV immunisation program has led to a major drop in hospital admissions among newborns, with early research showing hospitalisations in babies under three months fell by almost 44% in the program’s first year.
15 May 2026
DVA Chief Health Officer focused on improving veterans’ healthcare access
Dr Steph Davis, the Chief Health Officer at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), says improving access to healthcare and making the system easier to navigate are key priorities in her role.
15 May 2026
New proposal to update CPD and practice rules for health workers in Australia
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and 14 National Boards are asking for feedback on planned changes to how health practitioners stay active in their work and keep their skills up to date.
15 May 2026
New TGA guidance explains rules for compounded medicines in Australia
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has released updated guidance to help health practitioners understand the legal requirements for preparing and supplying compounded medicines in Australia.
15 May 2026
Budget brings some wins but many gaps for general practice
This week in Canberra had a strong focus on the Federal Budget, with health groups closely watching for changes that affect general practice and the wider health system.
14 May 2026
Rapid testing improves patient understanding and long-term health outcomes
A new international study has found that point-of-care testing (PoCT) does more than provide quick results, with benefits that continue well beyond the consultation.
14 May 2026
Consultation opens on Australia’s national pharmacy workforce planning
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), in partnership with the University of Queensland, has opened a public consultation on the development of a national pharmacy workforce model.
14 May 2026
NDIS reform Bill introduced to strengthen long-term sustainability
On 14 May 2026, the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill was presented to Parliament.