Medicines Australia (MA), welcomes the Australian Government response to the Senate Community Affairs References Committee Report: Availability of new, innovative and specialist cancer drugs in Australia.

MA members discover, develop and manufacture the latest medicines that are made available to those who need them on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).  They also undertake around one thousand clinical trials locally that support the development of new medicines and provide 34 thousand Australians with early access to the latest treatments, including for cancers.

We’re committed to working together with the Government to ensure that access to new innovative medicines remains the highest priority.

It’s encouraging that the Government agrees that improving and streamlining existing regulatory and assessment processes for new medicines are key strategies to ensure Australians have even better access to breakthrough medicines.

As the Government notes in their response, some of the Senate inquiry’s recommendations are currently being addressed through reforms of the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

In particular, we look forward to the passage of legislation currently before Parliament that includes provisions for another expedited pathway called Provisional Approval that aims to speed up access to new medicines.

The Government’s response also highlights the importance of the Strategic Agreement, signed with Medicines Australia, to address some of the recommendations of the Senate inquiry.

Not only does the Agreement provide $1.8 billion in savings on PBS listed medicines that will be used to pay for new treatments, the Government has committed to reform that will improve and accelerate processes that lead to a medicine being made available on the PBS.

Medicines Australia believes that the Government’s commitment in the Strategic Agreement will make a real difference to access to medicines for Australians.

We’re committed to continuing collaborative discussions with the Government about the future of the PBS and the improved availability of breakthrough medicines to Australians at a price they can afford.

Ends – 

More information – Natalie Wimmer, Manager Media and Communications –
0450 728 660 – nwimmer@medaus.com.au

Mr Wes Cook, Managing Director of Boehringer Ingelheim Australia, has been re-elected as the Chair of Medicines Australia with Dr Anna Lavelle re-endorsed as Independent Deputy Chair.

The appointments followed the announcement of the new Board of Medicines Australia at the association’s Annual General Meeting in Sydney today (see list below).

Medicines Australia Chief Executive Mr Milton Catelin said, “Wes has shown outstanding leadership as Chair and helped to guide the strategic direction of our industry for quite some time now, including the Strategic Agreement signed earlier this year with the Commonwealth.”

“As our Deputy Chair and independent Board member, Dr Lavelle provides expertise on Board governance as well as invaluable insights into the broader biopharmaceutical and medical research sector from her years of industry experience.”

“I would like to congratulate all new and returning Medicines Australia Board Members who were selected by their peers following the recently conducted members’ ballot.”

The new Board announced at today’s Annual General Meeting will serve until October 2019.

Chair	Mr Wes Cook	Managing Director	Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Ltd
Independent Director and Deputy Chair	Dr Anna Lavelle
Director	Anne Belcher	Vice President/General Manager	GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd
Director	Brad Edwards	General Manager ANZ	Shire Australia Pty Limited
Director	Michala Fischer- Hansen	VP and General Manager – Oceania	Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd-Australia
Director	Bruce Goodwin	Managing Director	Janssen-Cilag Pty Limited
Director	James Jones	Managing Director	Takeda Pharmaceuticals Australia Pty Ltd
Director	Melissa McGregor	Managing Director	Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd
Director	Kirsten O’Doherty	General Manager	AbbVie Pty Ltd
Director	Svend Petersen	Managing Director	Roche Products Pty Limited
Director	Brent Pfeiffenberger	Managing Director Australia/New Zealand	Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty Ltd

“On behalf of Medicines Australia, I would like thank all outgoing Board members, for their commitment to the innovative medicines industry during their time as Directors,” said Mr Catelin.

“They deserve enormous gratitude from the sector for their role in developing a Strategic Agreement with the Commonwealth that provides certainty for industry, incredible value for taxpayers and better access for Australians to innovative medicines.”

“The announcement of a new Board is an important milestone for the membership. It provides both continuity as well as fresh leadership that will help to steer the strategic direction of Medicines Australia and the industry more broadly for the years to come.”

“I look forward to working closely with the new Board and once again offer them my congratulations,” said Mr Catelin.

ENDS

CONTACT

Natalie Wimmer nwimmer@medaus.com.au Phone: 0450 728 660

The Final Budget Outcome papers released today reveal the enormous efforts of the members of Medicines Australia to keep expenditure low on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) while providing Australians with incredible access to breakthrough medicines.

Our members invent, research, develop and manufacture the latest therapies that help to make Australia healthier and more productive and also take the pressure off our hospitals.

The Final Budget Outcome for 2016-17 shows that the Federal Government spent $13.379 billion on the PBS.

However, the final outcome is a gross figure that does not subtract the significant rebates provided by our members through pricing and supply agreements with government.

It’s understood that when these rebates are taken into account the real cost of the PBS continues to remain relatively flat year on year.

The rebates are in addition to the recent Strategic Agreement signed between Medicines Australia and the Federal Government that will deliver agreed price reductions for on-patent medicines totaling $1.8 billion over five years.

Medicines Australia Chief Executive Milton Catelin says, “these rebates offer Australians extraordinary value for money on breakthrough treatments for life-threatening conditions such as cancer and infectious disease.”

“Without these rebates, which are confidential between companies and government, many of the latest medicines may be significantly delayed in coming to Australia or may never be accessed via the PBS at all.”

“Rebates have become increasingly commonplace due to the incredibly tough pricing arrangements that have evolved due to the current budgetary position in Australia.”

“They allow companies to offer confidential agreements which deliver incredible discounts or volume agreements that would otherwise not be possible.”

“Our members continue to make significant sacrifices day in and day out to ensure that Australia has an affordable PBS that still provides incredible access to innovative medicines.”

“It’s not only rebates, there is also the recently signed Strategic Agreement that reduces prices for on-patent medicines that have taken billions of dollars and years of investment to deliver to patients.”

“In fact, our members have helped to deliver ongoing and growing cost savings measures that have reduced pressure on the PBS by more than $20 billion and counting since 2007.”

“It’s a contribution that regrettably goes largely unrecognised but the innovative medicines industry continues to deliver for Australia.”

“Our members are proud of their role in the development of breakthrough medicines and vaccines and are committed to their continued access for all Australians,” said Mr Catelin.

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Contact: James Boyce – 0423 239 265

Medicines Australia welcomes the appointments of Glenys Beauchamp PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Dr Heather Smith PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Industry, Innovation & Science.

“I want to congratulate them both on their appointments by the Prime Minister,” said Medicines Australia Chief Executive Milton Catelin.

“Glenys and Heather are two exceptionally capable and experienced members of the public service and Medicines Australia and its members look forward to a close and constructive relationship with them both.”

“Having served as the Secretary of the Department of Industry, Innovation & Science, Ms Beauchamp has already seen the enormous value of our industry and the investment that it brings to Australia.”

“This is an important time for the Department of Health and our members as we look to steer through legislation that will support the Strategic Agreement recently signed between Medicines Australia and the Commonwealth.”

“We also look forward to working together with Ms Beauchamp and her Department on process reforms to both the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) that will make a difference for Australians who rely on access to innovative medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).”

“Dr Smith will be an excellent replacement as the Secretary of the Department of Industry and I look forward to working with her on policies that will continue to encourage investment by our members in manufacturing and vital medical research, such as clinical trials.”

“Our members undertake around 900 clinical trials a year in Australia and manufacture medicines that make up around half the exports of medicine products which are now Australia’s largest manufactured export and we want to see that grow even more.”

“Once again I congratulate both on their appointments,” said Mr Catelin.

-Ends-

Contact: James Boyce – 0423 239 265

Pharmaceutical companies and medical professionals share an important partnership. We collaborate on clinical research, share knowledge and support education to ensure that medicines are constantly improving and are used safely and appropriately by doctors and their patients.

The Medicines Australia Code of Conduct is the national standard for industry self-regulation and is leading the way on transparency.

Medicines Australia and its member companies are proud of their role in developing the Code, which ensures the medicines industry leads the health sector in transparency. Our high standards of ethical conduct and transparency will help drive further improvements to Australia’s health care system.

This Code has been authorised by the ACCC and is supported by the Australian Medical Association.

The latest transparency reports, published today, 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.

The Code of Conduct is the Australian benchmark for accountability and transparency reporting in the therapeutic goods sector. This is the same standard that pharmaceutical companies are held to in Europe, and significantly more detailed than industry self-regulation in the USA.

Further information about the transparency requirements of the Medicines Australia Code of Conduct and hyperlinks to each member company’s reports are available here.

MA encourages consumers to talk to their doctors if they would like to know more about their relationships with different companies and the benefits to patient health.

CONTACT: Natalie Wimmer – Communications Manager – 0450 728 660

MA notes the Government has today released their response to the Productivity Commission’s (PC) Inquiry in Intellectual Property.

We know that strong IP leads to greater innovation in the pharmaceutical sector.

We’re pleased the Government does not intend to implement the detrimental recommendations made by the PC as any changes that weaken IP in Australia could have a negative impact on the ability for all Australians to access to the latest innovative medicines. It would also diminish Australia’s competitiveness for investment in vital medical research such as clinical trials.

Therefore, It’s somewhat disappointing to read the Government supports the PC’s view on so-called pay-for-delay. It seems extraordinary to introduce additional regulatory burdens to monitor something when the Government itself acknowledges that there is no evidence to support the Productivity Commission’s view.

We look forward to examining the report in more detail and consulting with members and the Government to ensure that Australia’s IP system continues to encourage innovation, investment in research and development and access to the latest breakthroughs in medicines for all Australians.

More information: Natalie Wimmer – 0450728660

Medicines Australia would like to acknowledge the enormous contribution made by Martin Bowles PSM as a public servant for almost 40 years and as Secretary of the Department of Health since 2014.

The health portfolio is an incredibly demanding and diverse portfolio and its effective management is critical to all Australians. Mr Bowles has served as its Secretary with distinction.

Medicines Australia has had a constructive and effective relationship with Mr Bowles and worked closely with him and his team on many issues over the past two and a half years, none more important than the successful completion of a Strategic Agreement with the Commonwealth this year.

Medicines Australia wishes Mr Bowles all the best for the future.

ENDS

CONTACT

Natalie Wimmer, Media Manager – Medicines Australia – 0450728660

Medicines Australia is pleased to welcome the appointment of Michelle Burke to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC).

Ms Burke has enormous experience in the sector and has a long history of working with multinational bio-pharmaceutical companies and contributing to significant policy issues such as PBS reform and industry development. Ms Burke has three times been the recipient of industry recognition through the prestigious Pat Clear Award, for her contributions to broader industry policy.

The appointment of an industry nominated member to the PBAC was one of several changes made to the Committee as part of the 2015 PBS Access and Sustainability Package.

“Ms Burke is eminently qualified to bring to the PBAC the high degree of integrity and independence as well as considerable experience of the medicines regulatory and reimbursement system and its interaction with the broader, global eco-system,” said Milton Catelin, Chief Executive Medicines Australia.

“The Committee has shown a willingness to engage with the medicines industry and has a deep understanding of the issues impacting on our sector.”

“We look forward to working with the PBAC towards what should be our shared priority, namely, the timely listing of new, innovative and cost-effective medicines to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS),” said Mr Catelin.

The PBAC is an independent expert body appointed by the Australian Government. Members include doctors, health professionals, health economists and consumer representatives.

Its primary role is to recommend new medicines for listing on the PBS. No new medicine can be listed unless the committee makes a positive recommendation.

Contact:

Natalie Wimmer, Media Manager – Medicines Australia
Phone: 0450 728 660
Email: nwimmer@medaus.com.au

Restoration on skilled visas welcomed across medical technology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical sector.

The restoration of key occupations for the medical technology, research and pharmaceutical sector to the skilled migration visa list has been welcomed by six representative organisations. Having participated in submissions and consultations, the combined peak body group is pleased the Government has addressed concerns that were widely shared across the medical technologies, biotechnologies and pharmaceuticals industry sector and the health and medical research sector.

The revised list of occupations is an important step for which there is significant acknowledgment and relief that the attraction of highly-skilled individuals will not be thwarted and demonstrates continued support for Australia’s competitive advantage in life sciences innovation.

The revised list has provided assurance that important recruitment of outstanding talent can continue consistent with the Australian National Innovation and Science Agenda. Australia will be able to continue to thrive as a home for some of the world’s most talented scientists and medical researchers, improve its position as a centre for high-quality R&D in medical science and receive the associated spill over benefits.

Signatory organisations include representatives of the entire life sciences research and commercialisation ‘ecosystem’, including biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical technology companies, ranging from start-ups to mature multinationals, research institutes, universities and specialist service professionals.

We understand the need for the Government to ensure that the visa program benefits Australia and the scheme must be viewed as a tool to fill the skills gaps that exists in Australia. In this instance, the gaps are in research and industries that create highly-attractive highly skilled jobs, attract clinical research, upskills the local talent pool and grows the local economy.

About AusBiotech
AusBiotech is Australia’s biotechnology organisation, working on behalf of members for 30 years to provide representation and services to promote the development, growth and prosperity of Australian biotechnology. AusBiotech is a well-connected network of over 3,000 members in the life sciences, including therapeutics, medical technology (devices and diagnostics), food technology and agricultural, environmental and industrial sectors.

About Research Australia

Research Australia is the national peak body representing the entire health and medical research pipeline advocating for health and medical research in Australia. Independent of government, Research Australia’s activities are funded by its partners, donors and supporters from leading research organisations, academic institutions, philanthropy, community special interest groups, peak industry bodies, biotechnology, medical technology and pharmaceutical companies, small businesses and corporate Australia.

About Medicines Australia

Medicines Australia represents the discovery-driven pharmaceutical industry in Australia. Our member companies invent, manufacture and supply innovative medicines and vaccines to the Australian community, which keeps Australians out of hospitals, prevents disease and play a pivotal role in ensuring a productive and healthy community. Medicines Australia’s mission is to drive the creation and development of a predictable environment for the continued, sustainable growth of the innovative and research-based prescription medicines industry.

About BioMelbourne Network

The BioMelbourne Network is a membership-based, industry forum representing over 185 organisations and business leaders in biotechnology, medical technology and health innovation industries in the State of Victoria. Our role is to foster links between companies, research organisations, financial markets and government to create an environment for that enables conversation, collaboration and prosperity.

About Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA)

The Medical Technology Association of Australia represents manufacturers, exporters and suppliers of medical technology products used in the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and management of disease and disability.

About Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI)

AAMRI is the peak body for medical research institutes (MRIs) across Australia. Our member organisations work on a broad spectrum of human health issues such as preventive health, chronic disease, mental health, immunology and Indigenous health. Their research ranges from fundamental biomedical discovery through to clinical research and the translation of research findings from bench to bedside.