RVA Position Statement: ‘Government response – The New Frontier: Inquiry into approval processes for new drugs and novel medical technologies in Australia’

RVA News

On 30 November, the Australian Government published its response to The New Frontier – Delivering better health for all Australians report (the New Frontier report) tabled by the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport on 25 November 2021. The New Frontier report responded to the Parliamentary Inquiry into approval processes for new drugs and novel medical technologies in Australia and contains 31 recommendations, including dedicated sections to rare diseases and the patient voice. It also aligns with several of the priorities, actions and implementation steps outlined in the Australian Government’s National Strategic Action Plan for Rare Diseases.

RVA has published a Position Statement that addresses the government’s response. Read the Position Statement in full. RVA’s early analysis primarily focuses on the strengths of the government’s response. We note that the government has accepted several recommendations in principle only. RVA recognises that this style of language is typical for a government response. We also note that the government refers to the role of the Health Technology Assessment Policy and Methods Review (HTA Review) currently underway in response to several of the recommendations. RVA recognises that such responses are appropriate and continues to actively participate in the HTA Review as the national peak body for Australians living with a rare disease. 

Download the Position Statement [PDF]