Friday 10 January 2010 – From today, ACT residents affected by the bushfire crisis will join Victorian and NSW residents in being able to access a standard PBS or manufacturers’ pack quantity of their Prescription Only Medicines (Schedule 4) without a prescription, following the announcement of a public health emergency order.

It is really positive to see that governments in these areas recognise the difficulties facing people affected by bushfires in accessing an uninterrupted supply of their medicines.

This measure will ensure people most affected by the tragedy will not have to shoulder the additional burden of worrying about access to their life saving medicines.

Australia is facing an extraordinary bushfire crisis that is impacting communities, volunteers, firefighters, emergency services, as well as our unique environment and wildlife. Conditions are predicted to worsen across the country as the unprecedented heatwave is exacerbated by the prolonged drought.

As an industry, we are grieving for those who have lost their lives or their loved ones or have suffered injury, and those whose properties and habitats have been destroyed.

We would like to recognise and give thanks to the front-line responders and volunteers who have, in many cases, endured great personal sacrifice to fight these fires and assist their communities.

Bushfire recovery will be an ongoing challenge for Australia over the coming months and years. We are committed to supporting efforts to rebuild and to ensuring that the medicines supply chain remains intact and agile in times of crisis.

In addition, our members are providing other assistance including: providing replacement medicines at a pharmacy and individual level, as well as donations of personal care products, prescription and non-prescription medicines, breathing apparatus and other medical supplies, financial donations to recovery agencies, matching staff donations globally and supporting volunteer employees and those affected by the fires.

Members are in close contact with the ACT, NSW and VIC state health coordination centres to provide assistance at a state level – including hospitals and will continue to do so as these devastated communities respond and prepare to rebuild.

We hope everyone stays safe.  Should you wish to, please consider donating to:
The Red Cross

NSW Rural Fire Service

Victorian Country Fire Authority

WIRES.

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Further enquiries:

Natalie Wimmer,
Media and Communications Manager,
Medicines Australia
T:0450728660

Medicines Australia is disappointed that proposed changes to the Research and Development Tax Incentive were tabled without notice or consultation in the Parliament yesterday – despite the recommendations of a Senate Committee inquiry this year to defer the Bill until further consideration was given to the effects of the reforms. This recommendation acknowledged that further tinkering with the R&D tax incentive creates business uncertainty especially when incentives are seen to be weakened and not strengthened.

Medicines Australia CEO Elizabeth de Somer said: “It is troubling that the Bill persists with the  introduction of an intensity threshold for the research intensive pharmaceutical sector, which would diminish Australia’s attractiveness as a destination for clinical research at a time when we are seeking to expand Australia’s export capacity in the knowledge economy that includes clinical research expertise and infrastructure.”

“Medicines Australia supported the Inquiry’s recommendations to reduce red tape, improve transparency and increase efficiencies. However, given the Bill’s hasty introduction it is not possible to determine if real efforts have been made in this direction and we therefore believe this requires further consideration and consultation,” said Ms de Somer.

Australia currently attracts more than $1 billion a year in pharmaceutical R&D investment and is also one of the largest employers of medical science graduates in Australia.

The economic contribution of pharmaceutical companies is amplified through substantial linkages with other parts of Australia’s medical research sector and changes announced in this Bill could put a brake on investment at the very time when economic growth is essential.

We understand the need for the Government to ensure that the tax incentive is sustainable during challenging budgetary conditions; however, the scheme must be viewed as a tool to encourage long-term investment in Australia that creates highly attractive jobs, attracts clinical research and grows the local economy.

Medicines Australia welcomes the opportunity to engage with the Government on this issue in order to ensure that there are no unintended consequences and that investment in R&D within the pharmaceutical sector is supported.

Further enquiries:

Natalie Wimmer, Media and Communications Manager, Medicines Australia – 0450 728 660

Medicines Australia welcomes today’s report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) which verifies the immense benefit that vaccines provide to the community through avoiding, or reducing, ill health from vaccine preventable diseases.

The report found that ill health caused by vaccine preventable diseases fell by 31% from 2005 to 2015 due to the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

The impact of vaccines can clearly be seen, as new vaccines are introduced. In the decade to 2015, large declines were seen in the burden of disease for rotavirus (85% – added to the NIP schedule in 2007), chickenpox (75% – added in 2005), human papillomavirus (67% – added in 2007 for females and in 2013 for males) and meningococcal disease (58% – added in 2003). The number of cases of these diseases decreased considerably over the period.

Medicines Australia CEO Elizabeth de Somer said that life-saving vaccinations continue to protect Australians from preventable, communicable diseases.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 2–3 million deaths are prevented worldwide each year due to immunisation and acknowledges immunisation as being ‘one of the most successful and cost-effective health interventions known’ (WHO 2013).

“For over twenty years Australia’s outstanding system has provided eligible people, including young children, older Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, and those at higher risk of harm from vaccine preventable diseases with free vaccines,” said Ms de Somer.

“The Government’s investment in the National Immunisation Program each year has paid off, and this report is testament to both the effectiveness of the programme and the important role vaccines play in protecting the community.

“These findings also point to the broader benefits of vaccines, not only to the individual and the community, but also to the economy. Reductions in the burdens of disease, keep young people in school and able to fulfil healthy and productive lives; keep young adults in work and contributing to society and keep older Australians out of hospital and living longer, healthier lives.

“The AIHW report confirms that disease and immunisation awareness, coupled with collaboration between industry and government provides better health outcomes for the community, individuals and their carers, which we know has a flow on effect to the economy,” said Ms de Somer.

“We will continue to work together to ensure efficient assessment pathways, that fully account for the value that vaccines provide to the community and to ensure speedy access to disease prevention options,” said Ms de Somer.

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Further enquiries:

Natalie Wimmer, Media and Communications Manager, Medicines Australia – 0450728660

Medicines Australia Chair, Dr Anna Lavelle, was pleased to announce the appointment of the new Board of Medicines Australia at the association’s Annual General Meeting in Sydney today (see list below).

Dr Lavelle welcomed the new Board members as they take on the important leadership role for the association.

“I am delighted to welcome the incoming Medicines Australia Board. The significant interest shown by so many managing directors in nominating to the Board is testament to the commitment our members have to the industry.  I am looking forward to their contribution to the strategic direction of both Medicines Australia and the Australian pharmaceutical industry,” said Dr Lavelle

In welcoming the new Board, Dr Lavelle also thanked the outgoing board members for their commitment to the innovative medicines industry.

“Medicines Australia has benefited greatly from the knowledge, leadership and support of outgoing board members, some of who have committed many years to developing and delivering on critical industry objectives,” said Dr Lavelle

“In particular, I would like to thank and acknowledge former Chair, Mr Wes Cook Managing Director of Boehringer Ingelheim, Australia. Wes was instrumental in delivering the Medicines Australia Strategic Agreement with the Commonwealth in 2017 and took the helm of the organisation at a critical time.

Under his leadership, we have achieved an historic level of industry stability and collaboration with government on policy reforms.

“I would also like to recognise the leadership of Ms Kirsten O’Doherty, Managing Director of AbbVie, who was one of the founding members of PAGE (now PAIG), an example of the sector’s leadership in gender equality, diversity and inclusion.

“I also thank and acknowledge the contributions of Brad Edwards, Managing Director of Shire, who sat for a number of years on the Board and Governance sub-committee and My Linh Kha, Managing Director of Amgen, who joined the Board last year and has recently been appointed to lead her organisation in China, said Dr Lavelle

The new elected Directors to the Medicines Australia Board announced at today’s Annual General Meeting will serve for three years until October 2022.

“It is one of the strengths of the industry that we have extraordinarily dedicated individuals, and our incoming board is no exception,” concluded Dr Lavelle.

2019-2022 Elected Directors to the Board of Medicines Australia

Liz Chatwin	AstraZeneca Pty Ltd
Chris Stemple	Biogen Australia Pty Ltd
Neil MacGregor	Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty Ltd
Christi Kelsey	GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd
Bruce Goodwin	Janssen-Cilag Pty Limited
Leah Goodman	Merck Healthcare Pty Ltd
Michael Azrak	Merck Sharp & Dohme (Australia) Pty Ltd
Melissa McGregor	Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd
Stuart Knight	Roche Products Pty Limited
James McDonnell	Vifor Pharma Pty Ltd

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More information: Natalie Wimmer – Media and Communications Manager – Medicines Australia 0450728660

Medicines Australia has today welcomed the publication of the Department of Health’s annual report, showing net expenditure on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme has risen by over 4 per cent in 2018-19 to $9.8 billion.

“Medicines Australia and our members understand the immense value gained from investing in new medicines and expanding indications, to make medicines available to more Australian patients when they need them,” said Medicines Australia CEO Elizabeth de Somer.

“We know that investing in listing new medicines and expanded indications is an investment worth making and we are pleased that the additional investment in the PBS, demonstrated in the Department of Health annual report, is a signal that this is being recognised by Government.”

“Treatments and other technological advances are becoming more sophisticated, scientific understanding of disease is growing and medicine regimes are becoming more personalised. This means that some medicines are used to treat a range of diseases and illnesses.”

“We are committed to working with the Department to ensure Australian patients get the full benefit of the medicines we discover, develop and manufacture, into the future,” said Ms de Somer.

“We know that there is still more to do to ensure that we maintain systems that are fit for purpose and that will meet the needs of an aging and growing population and the expectations of a more informed community,” said Ms de Somer.

“We look forward to further building on our partnership with Government and other stakeholders to meet community expectations on availability of new medicines and therapies,” concluded Ms de Somer.

More information: Natalie Wimmer – Media and Communications Manager – Medicines Australia 0450728660

Medicines Australia is pleased to announce the launch of our Centralised Reporting System available at www.DisclosureAustralia.com.au.

The system will make it simpler than ever to understand interactions between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals.

Due to go live from today, Friday 30 August 2019, the system will contain all information that was previously available through an individual company’s website, in an easily searchable form.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer thanked member companies for their support of the initiative.

“The Code of Conduct is already one of the best forms of a self-regulatory practice here in Australia, and has been since it was introduced almost 60 years ago,” said Ms de Somer.

“We are taking our already rigorous transparency model to the next level by providing a platform that’s easy to use and accessible to all.

“We are proud of the important role we play in educating medical professionals about the latest in innovative therapies.

“Our members provide clear information about payments to a healthcare professional so they can access the latest educational opportunities, attend conferences or symposia, or for their services as an expert.

“By supporting ongoing education, companies can assist healthcare professionals to acquire the appropriate understanding and knowledge of new innovative therapies, which is appropriate and accountable,” concluded Ms de Somer.

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More information – Natalie Wimmer – 0450 728 660 – nwimmer@medaus.com.au

Medicines Australia supports efforts to strengthen Australia’s Intellectual Property arrangements to be consistent with international best practice, however, it is disappointing that the government has instead proposed legislation that undermines innovation and further weakens our attractiveness as an investment and innovation destination. By not accepting Medicines Australia’s recommendations Australia is missing an opportunity to demonstrate our desire to be a top destination for investment in research and development into the latest medical breakthroughs.

The Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 2 and Other Measures) Bill 2019, introduced yesterday, will add to business uncertainty and signal that Australia is not interested in growing our economy through expansion of medical and biotherapeutic research and development.

Medicines Australia’s submission to the IP Australia consultation on the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Bill 2018 (https://medicinesaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/65/sites/52/2018/09/MA-submission-to-IP-Laws-Amendment-Bill-2018-FINAL.pdf) clearly outlined the significance of a strong, effective and stable IP system in fostering pharmaceutical innovation, investment, productivity and competitiveness. In our submission we reiterated the importance of:

• Retaining innovation patents
• If introduced, an unambiguous objects clause that is consistent with international obligations
• The granting of compulsory licenses only in exceptional circumstances and only when in accordance with international rules
• The application of Crown use provisions only where consistent with Australia’s obligations under international treaties

These recommendations would maintain and strengthen an environment that supports Intellectual Property and would encourage ongoing investment in research and development into medicines and biotherapeutics. A strong and stable IP system in Australia is crucial for the thousands of Australian scientists, research organisations, Universities and local Biotechnology companies who rely on this system for investment and innovation in medicines for the benefit of all Australians.

Medicines Australia welcomes the appointment of the Hon Chris Bowen MP as Shadow Minister for Health.

Medicines Australia CEO, Elizabeth de Somer said Mr Bowen’s track-record as Treasurer and Shadow Treasurer will provide a strong foundation for success in the
all-important health portfolio.

“Mr Bowen understands the impact that investment in medicines can have, on an individual, the community and the economy and he has previously indicated his support of the pharmaceutical sector.

“His focus on mental health, suicide prevention, indigenous health and targeting areas of low income and poor health outcomes is a welcome one – these are big challenges that Australia faces, and rely on all facets of health to collaborate on solutions.

“Medicines Australia looks forward to working with Shadow Minister Bowen to ensure Australians have access to the latest in breakthrough medicines,” she said.

Medicines Australia also welcomes the appointment of the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP as Shadow Minister for Employment and Industry and as Shadow Minister for Science, Madeleine King MP as Minister for Trade, the Hon Julie Collins MP as the Shadow Minister for Minister for Ageing and Seniors and Clare O’Neil MP as Shadow Minister for Innovation, Technology and the Future of Work.

“The Albanese Shadow Ministry composition shows a desire to think toward the future of Australia, the composition of our workforce and our technological capabilities. The innovative pharmaceutical sector has the potential to be a key driver of our technological and manufacturing capabilities as a nation,” said Ms de Somer.

Medicines Australia would also like to acknowledge the important contribution that the Hon Catherine King MP made to the Shadow Health portfolio for the past six years.

“Ms King displayed a thorough understanding of the complex portfolio and a determination to hold the government to account to ensure new medicines are listed. Medicines Australia wishes Ms King well in her new role,” said Ms de Somer.

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More information – Natalie Wimmer – Communications Manager – 0450 728 660

Medicines Australia welcomes the appointment of the Morrison Government Ministry following the May 18 Federal Election.

With the recent confirmation that Prime Minister the Hon Scott Morrison MP will lead a majority government and today’s appointment of an experienced Ministry, Medicines Australia looks forward to working with members of the Ministry to provide stability and continuity for the continued investment of the innovative pharmaceutical sector and the research and development capabilities of Australia.

Medicines Australia CEO Elizabeth de Somer said: “In particular, Medicines Australia is delighted to see the continuation of the Hon Greg Hunt MP in the health portfolio as Minister for Health. Prime Minister Morrison has made the right call in keeping the critical portfolio of Health in the capable hands of Minister Hunt, as we continue to implement the improvements agreed under the 2017 Strategic Agreement, streamline processes and reduce delays in access to new and breakthrough medicines.

“Medicines Australia has enjoyed a positive working relationship with Minister Hunt, and we welcome the opportunity to reinforce our important work together to ensure the prompt implementation and delivery on the commitments made to the sector during their election campaign. This includes a review of the National Medicines Policy, long-awaited Clinical Trial reform, and reduced listing times and processes,” said Ms de Somer.

Medicines Australia also congratulates Senator the Hon Karen Andrews for her re-appointment as the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, the Hon Ken Wyatt MP for his promotion to the portfolio of Minister for Indigenous Australians and Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham on his reappointment as Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment.

“With a strong and stable government, including the reappointment of Ministers in central economic portfolios, such as Treasury and Finance, Medicines Australia looks forward to ensuring strong investment in the medicines that matter to all Australians, that keep patients out of hospital and contributing to the economic health and wealth of Australia,” said Ms de Somer.

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More information – Natalie Wimmer – Communications Manager – 0450 728 660