Media release – Page 6 – Medicines Australia

Restart of National Medicines Policy Review is welcome, but assurances needed over further consultation and feedback processes

18 August 2022: Medicines Australia welcomes the restart of the National Medicines Policy Review, which was put on hold prior to the May Federal Election following calls from stakeholders who sought improved consultation.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said the restart of the Review showed the Government’s commitment for Australians to have equitable and affordable access to medicines.

“The National Medicines Policy (NMP) affects all Australians, and this is the first time it has been reviewed in 20 years – so we have to get it right,” Ms de Somer said.

“The NMP sets the overarching policy direction for timely and affordable access to medicines for Australian patients, promotes the quality use of medicines, and supports a responsible and viable medicines industry.

“The modernised NMP should ensure Australia’s policy direction meets the needs of today’s modern medicines and is set up to support the arrival of the latest innovative medicines, vaccines, and treatments for Australian patients.

“We are pleased that the latest draft of the revised NMP acknowledges the innovations in medical care occurring now and in the future.

“The NMP Review is the start of a larger reform agenda – including the imminent Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review – that is focused on speeding up access to world-class medicines when people need them.

“The NMP should set the vision for how all Australians, across many diverse communities, access and use lifesaving and life-changing medicines. The Review of the NMP must consult widely and deeply to ensure the needs of these different communities are met.

“In welcoming the restart, Medicines Australia maintains the view that six weeks may not be enough for further meaningful consultation with all stakeholders.

“We also note that the NMP Expert Advisory Committee has not been re-convened to support the Review Chair, Professor Michael Kidd AM.

“We remain committed to ensure the NMP meets its objectives for timely access to safe and effective medicines for all Australians,” Ms de Somer said.

The consultation survey on the new draft NMP is open until 27 September 2022 and will be accompanied by a public forum and targeted consultations with key stakeholder groups. A final report is expected to go to Minister Butler before the end of the year.

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For further information or media interviews, please contact:
Chrystianna Moran – 0424 995 118 / chrystianna.moran@medicinesaustralia.com.au
Margaret Cresswell – 0410 456 293 / margaret.cresswell@medicinesaustralia.com.au

<< Previous: Government opts for additional consultation on National Medicines Policy (NMP) Review

Medicines Australia receives two awards for exemplary workplace culture

**Image:** Medicines Australia staff celebrate the Best Workplace and Change Champions for 2022 Awards.
**Back row (L-R):** Kaity Harris, Emily Skillin, Liz de Somer and Eric Johnsson
**Front row (L-R):** Hoor Ahktar, Tony Marks, Anne-Maree Englund, Brent Weston, Sophie Seck and Josh Vines

9 August 2022: Medicines Australia has been awarded Best Workplace and Change Champions for 2022 by Voice Project for the small-medium category.

Voice Project is engaged by Medicines Australia to measure staff culture and performance each year.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said the awards recognised the energy the organisation has put behind staff engagement and growing workplace culture.

“I’m honoured that Medicines Australia has received these two awards for Best Workplace and Change Champions for 2022,” Ms de Somer said.

“These awards are an inspiring achievement for the whole team, who all contribute to the outcomes and culture of Medicines Australia every day to ensure that our members are best placed to bring new medicines to the patients that need them.

“Our most recent staff survey shows that we have continued to grow and improve over the past 12 months in the three areas of engagement, wellbeing and progress.

“I am privileged to be surrounded by a team of knowledgeable, talented and diverse individuals who make it a pleasure to come to work each day.

“I am confident we have cultivated an environment that encourages learning and continuous development as individuals and together as a team. I look forward to the next 12 months and developing our staff engagement even further.

“Medicines Australia has a busy year ahead and I am confident we have the right people in place to support our key outcomes for our members. Thank you to each and every person in the Medicines Australia team who all contribute to improving the health outcomes for all Australians,” said Ms de Somer.

Medicines Australia continues to grow the team and has recently welcomed several new members including Gail Morgan (Head of Government Relations); Margaret Cresswell (Head of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement); Heather Wrightman (Senior Manager, Access and Funding) and Constantine Tablan (Policy Analyst).

Quotes attributable to Medicines Australia staff (from the survey):

“Achievements of individuals and teams are recognised and rewarded. Acknowledgement in team meetings of small to big wins creates a greater sense of belonging and team. When someone achieves something, we all celebrate and lift that person up as a group. There is no jealousy or competition.
“The staff at Medicines Australia are inclusive, empathetic, and passionate about what they do. It is a real strength of the organisation.
“Social activities, having a laugh around the office and flexible WFH arrangements have all contributed to one of the best workplaces I’ve experienced in a long time.
“Staff work well together and have a strong work ethic. The work environment allows others to try new ideas and be innovative.

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Medicines Australia appoints Gail Morgan as new Head of Government Relations

2 August 2022: Medicines Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Gail Morgan as the organisation’s new Head of Government Relations.

Gail has worked in and around government for her whole career, with the last 15 years spent consulting in government relations, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said Gail has experience as a political adviser, a public servant, and in the private sector.

“On behalf of all at Medicines Australia, I welcome Gail Morgan as the new Head of Government Relations from 15 August,” Ms de Somer said.

“Gail has a proven record of working constructively with governments and industry to find common ground and solutions.

“She joins us at an important time as the new Albanese Government sets its agenda, which already features health as a top priority.

“Gail has a passion for the medicines industry, with experience right across the value chain spanning science, research, clinical trials, commercialisation, manufacturing, reimbursement – all of which contribute to the health of Australians.

“Medicines Australia has already established a strong, productive relationship with Health Minister Butler and other Ministers.

“With Gail at the helm of our Government Relations, Medicines Australia will work with the Government on key reforms such as the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review and the National Medicines Policy Review to ensure Australians are getting the innovative medicines they need, when they need them,” Ms de Somer said.

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Medicines industry working to minimise medicine supply shortages

22 July 2022: Medicines Australia and the Generic and Biosimilars Medicines Association (GBMA) are deeply concerned about medicine shortages that impact patients and have been working closely with the Government and stakeholders to minimise supply issues throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The TGA currently has listed 47 medicines that are experiencing critical shortages, with many having limited availability.

CEO of Medicines Australia, Elizabeth de Somer, said the ongoing issues of medicine shortages formed a significant part of the recent Strategic Agreements with the Commonwealth Government.

“Every Australian should be able to receive the life changing medicines they are prescribed without delay.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how good health is fundamentally linked to community wellbeing and a thriving economy. Any interruptions to the supply of medicines could have critical impacts on Australians’ health and flow on effects for our community.

“The pandemic has highlighted the complexities and vulnerabilities in global medicine supply chains and has increased the focus on medicine shortages in Australia,” said Ms de Somer.

Marnie Peterson, CEO of the GBMA, said members of the medicines sector in Australia were increasing their medicine stockholdings and aim to introduce additional security in supply of medicines.

“Under new industry Strategic Agreements with the Federal Government, pharmaceutical companies will be empowered to build a buffer of four to six months’ worth of supply for many medicines that are susceptible to shortages.

“New stockholding requirements will help guard against future shortages of these medicines and ensure patients continue to have enough supply of essential treatments,” said Ms Peterson.

Both Ms de Somer and Ms Peterson said the Australian medicines industry has worked tirelessly to maintain consistent supplies, responded rapidly to unexpected increases in demand and continues to implement strategies wherever possible to minimise medicine supply issues.

“We have continued to work closely with the TGA throughout the pandemic and have strengthened the understanding and management of disruptions to medicines supplies. These lessons must inform the approach to managing shortages of all medicines into the future,” said Ms de Somer.

Medicines Australia and the GBMA were granted authorisation by the ACCC during the pandemic to enable a coordinated strategy in relation to the supply of essential medicines and related devices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ACCC authorisation for Medicines Australia and GBMA is due to expire on 30 September 2022 and both organisations are considering the potential need for the authorisation to continue. Read more about the authorisation on the Medicines Australia website.

<< Read previous: ACCC helps to protect Australians against medicine shortages caused by COVID-19

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Media enquiries:

Medicines Australia: Chrystianna Moran – 0424 995 118 / chrystianna.moran@medicinesaustralia.com.au

GBMA: Jannette Cotterell – 0419 204 059 / jcotterell@executivecounsel.com.au

About Medicines Australia

Medicines Australia leads the research-based medicines industry of Australia. Its members discover, develop and manufacture prescription pharmaceutical products, biotherapeutic products and vaccines that bring health, social and economic benefits to Australia. its members invest in Australian medical research and take local discoveries and developments to the world.

About the GBMA

The Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association (GBMA) is the peak representative body of generic and biosimilar medicine suppliers in Australia.

Its members ensure that all Australians are offered high quality generic and biosimilar medicines, whilst providing affordable community health outcomes that benefit all Australians.

IP waiver for COVID vaccines is a threat to future innovation

20 June 2022: The decision to waive intellectual property (IP) protections for COVID-19 vaccines is fundamentally flawed and will have a negative impact on future innovation.

Medicines Australia is disappointed by the decision made at the WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva, to adopt an IP waiver – known as the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver – for COVID-19 vaccines.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said intellectual property is one of the key reasons why multiple safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines could be produced and scaled up so quickly during the height of the pandemic.

“This decision from the WTO Ministerial Conference has disregarded the evidence and distracts from the real barriers that are getting in the way of vaccinating more people around the world.

“Since the start of the pandemic, strong IP frameworks have supported pharmaceutical companies, scientists, researchers and manufacturers to create safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines in record time.

“This week’s decision sends a dangerous message to our community of amazing researchers and innovators that the intellectual property of their discoveries is a barrier to the pandemic response, when this is absolutely untrue.

“The emergence of COVID-19 variants and the threat of other future health pandemics mean we should be protecting the systems that enable medical innovation, not tearing them down.

“The TRIPS waiver pulls apart the very system that supported the fastest development of vaccines and enabled unprecedented collaboration and partnerships.

“More disappointing is the fact that the WTO has not adequately addressed the real reasons that vaccines are not getting to the people that need them; trade, dose-sharing, distribution and country readiness for administration,” Ms de Somer said.

Read the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) statement about the TRIPS endorsement at the WTO Ministerial Conference here.

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For further information or media interviews, please contact:
Chrystianna Moran – 0424 995 118 / chrystianna.moran@medicinesaustralia.com.au
John Flannery – 0419 494 761 / john.flannery@medicinesaustralia.com.au

<< Read previous: IP waiver for COVID vaccines misses the mark in vaccinating the world

IP waiver for COVID vaccines misses the mark in vaccinating the world

14 June 2022: Vaccinating the world remains a priority and proposals to weaken the intellectual property (IP) for COVID-19 vaccines are unnecessary, as this will not increase vaccination rates around the world.

This week, discussions at the WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva, to introduce an IP waiver – known as the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver – in the “Quad compromise”, takes precious attention away from more effective actions needed to increase vaccinations in our poorest nations.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, says only 17.8%[1] of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, but there is no evidence that IP is a barrier to vaccine production or access.

“The TRIPS argument has dragged on internationally without evidence and is being used as a political football which distracts and detracts from real action that can make a real difference.

“Globally, there are enough COVID-19 vaccines to protect those who need it most, but frustratingly, this is not the reality.

“This is not a supply problem; this is a distribution problem.

“Worldwide, equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine is the best chance we have at slowing down the pandemic and saving lives.

“We now must overcome these hurdles to increase vaccination rates in low-income countries, including for our closest neighbour, Papua New Guinea, who are struggling to reach a COVID-19 vaccination rate of 3%.

“To support these efforts, the international biopharmaceutical industry has committed to supporting governments improve in-country readiness, increasing dose sharing with middle- and low-income countries and prioritising research and innovation for the next generation of COVID-19 vaccines.

“Instead of political posturing, I urge governments to tackle the real challenges to COVID-19 vaccine access and hold a serious discussion about how we can strengthen global health security together.

“Undermining the very IP framework which enabled the fastest vaccine development in history will sadly only achieve the opposite,” Ms de Somer said.

This week, Ms de Somer will join more than 3,000 international and domestic leaders in health at the BIO International Convention in San Diego, California, which coincides with the timing of the WTO Ministerial Conference. Critical topics around the intersection of science and policy – such as global vaccine equity – are expected to be addressed.

Read the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) statement about the Quad compromise at the WTO Ministerial Conference here.

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[1] https://ourworldindata.org/covid-vaccinations

Medicines Australia moves quickly to put HTA system reform high on new Government’s agenda

10 June 2022: Medicines Australia has moved quickly to ensure that major reform of Australia’s health technology assessment (HTA) system is high on the new Government’s agenda.

Since the election, Medicines Australia has written to key MPs and Senators reiterating the organisation’s election policy priorities, most notably the HTA Reform.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, has discussed the major policy reforms being advocated by the medicines industry to improve patient access to new medicines in person with Health Minister Mark Butler and has this week followed up with his office.

Ms de Somer said it was important to get in early to explain the complexities and urgency of reforms already underway, including the National Medicines Policy, and the HTA Reform, due to commence from 1 July.

“We want to collaborate with Minister Butler to finalise the establishment of the HTA Review Reference Committee, including the appointment of an independent Chair,” Ms de Somer said.

“The Albanese Government has committed to the HTA Reform and the goal of reducing the length of time patients must wait to access new and innovative medicines, treatments, and vaccines – and the Committee will be driving this reform process to inform Government.

“The Committee’s first action will be to develop and consult on Terms of Reference for the HTA Reform.

“To assist this process and to support the Reference Committee’s tight schedule, Medicines Australia has collaborated with members and stakeholders to develop a first draft set of recommended terms of reference for the HTA Reform.

These are intended to be a ‘conversation starter’ with the Government, the Department, and other stakeholders, with the expectation that a broad stakeholder consultation on the draft terms of reference will follow in the coming weeks.

“The draft recommended terms of reference set the overarching vision for the HTA Reform and the partnership with Government, patients, clinicians, and other stakeholders to improve the patient journey, save lives, and improve quality of life for many Australians now and in the decades ahead.

“Previous Labor Governments have a history of introducing life-changing reforms to health care, including the introduction of the PBS in 1948, Medicare in 1984, and cigarette plain packaging in 2011. The HTA Reform is potentially of equal significance in delivering better health outcomes for all Australians.

“The HTA Review will undertake the first major reforms of the HTA system in 30 years. Modernising the system – with a clear focus on patient needs and heeding patient voices – to make it fit for purpose to serve future generations is well overdue.

“Medicines Australia looks forward to getting started on this important work with the Government, the Reference Committee, the Health Department, patient groups, and other key stakeholders.

The draft proposed terms of reference from Medicines Australia can be read here.

More information about the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Reform can be found here or you can watch a short video.

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Medicines Australia congratulates new shadow ministry appointments

7 June 2022: Medicines Australia congratulates the new shadow ministry, announced over the weekend by Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, congratulated Senator the Hon. Anne Ruston on her appointment as the Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Andrew Gee MP on his appointment as the Shadow Minister for Regional Health and Gavin Pearce MP on his appointment as Shadow Assistant Minister for Health, Aged Care and Indigenous Health Services.

“These are extremely important portfolios, made even more so by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is vital that Australians have timely access and equity of access to the latest medicines, vaccines, and treatments when they need them, no matter where they live.

“The innovative medicines industry relies on a stable political environment, including a well-funded PBS, to attract investment, create jobs, and to provide the latest medicines and vaccines to Australians when they need them.

“I look forward to consulting with Senator Ruston and her colleagues as we all work together to speed up access to innovative medicines for all Australians,” Ms de Somer said.

Medicines Australia also congratulates the new Shadow Minister for Industry, Skills and Training and Deputy Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Sussan Ley MP; Shadow Treasurer, the Hon Angus Taylor MP; Shadow Minister for Science, the Digital Economy and Government Services, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP; Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, Julian Leeser MP and; Shadow Minister for Finance, Senator the Hon Jane Hume.

Key priorities for Medicines Australia include:

Full implementation of the Medicines Australia Strategic Agreement.
Accepting the recommendations from the House of Representatives Inquiry and publishing a Government response.
Finalising the National Medicines Policy Review and commitment to its vision and purpose.
Reform of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) process.
Establishing a high-level, Government-Industry, life sciences roundtable forum that will drive increased investment in innovation, create jobs and ensure better health outcomes for Australians.

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New Health Minister Mark Butler can lead generational health reform for all Australians

31 May 2022: The new Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon. Mark Butler MP, has the perfect opportunity to lead significant health system reform and set the course for world’s best health care for future generations.

In welcoming Minister Butler’s appointment, Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said reviews and reforms already underway will need the Minister’s leadership to ensure Australian patients have faster access to the latest innovative medicines, vaccines, and treatments.

“Medicines Australia developed a productive working relationship with Minister Butler during his time as Shadow Health Minister,” Ms de Somer said.

“He has shown passion and dedication and deep understanding of the complexities of the health portfolio, including the PBS and the medicines industry.

“He has always been collaborative with our organisation and shown an appetite for improvements that will speed up access to new and innovative medicines for all Australians.

“Labor has committed to deliver on its vision of universal, fast, and world -class medical care and we believe this is possible with bold patient-centred health reform.

“Minister Butler has shown vast knowledge and appreciation of the many complex and growing health needs of Australians, industry, and stakeholders, including patient groups, and is aware of the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“Medicines save lives and improve lives. Investment in the health of all Australians means better outcomes for our society, our economy, and our overall health and wellbeing,” Ms de Somer said.

Medicines Australia also congratulates the new Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney, new Minister for Industry, Ed Husic, and the new Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, and will seek meetings with these Ministers at the earliest opportunity to discuss the way forward to improve the health of all Australians.

Key priorities for Medicines Australia include:

Full implementation of the Medicines Australia Strategic Agreement.
Accepting the recommendations from the House of Representatives Inquiry and publishing a Government response.
Finalising the National Medicines Policy Review and commit to its vision and purpose.
Reform of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) process, including agreement on an Independent Chair for the Review Committee.
Establishing a high-level, Government-Industry, life sciences roundtable forum that will drive increased investment in innovation, create jobs and ensure better health outcomes for Australians.

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Medicines Australia welcomes new leaders of the Liberal and National Parties

31 May 2022: Medicines Australia congratulates the new leaders of the Liberal Party and the National Party and look forward to working with them and their colleagues on policies to improve timely access to the latest innovative medicines, vaccines, and treatments for all Australians.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer, said both Liberal Leader, Peter Dutton, and Deputy Leader, Sussan Ley, have served as Health Minister and have a highly informed knowledge and understanding of the health system, including the medicines and biopharmaceuticals sector.

“Both Mr Dutton and Ms Ley have extensive experience in politics and policy and working closely with industry and other stakeholders,” Ms de Somer said.

“We also welcome the new leadership team for the Nationals, David Littleproud and Perin Davey.

“They will know from the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic that people in rural, regional, and remote Australia need timely access to medicines and treatments as other Australians. Equality of access is vital for regional Australia.

“Medicines Australia will engage positively and constructively with the Opposition to drive much-needed reform to achieve faster access for Australians to the medicines they need when they need them, no matter where they live.

“There is a lot of work underway to improve medicines policy in Australia, which will require the support of all MPs and Senators across the political spectrum.

“Key priorities include:

Commitments made in the Medicines Australia Strategic Agreement.
Accepting the recommendations from the House of Representatives Inquiry.
Finalising the National Medicines Policy Review and commit to its vision and purpose.
The reform of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) process, including agreement on an Independent Chair for the Review Committee.
Establishing a high-level, Government-Industry, life sciences roundtable forum.

“We will be organising meetings with the new Liberal and Nationals leaders at the earliest opportunity,” Ms de Somer said.

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