PBS Process Improvements – Stage 2 Fact Sheet

Page last updated: 21 September 2020

Pending Government decision, the implementation of Stage 2 PBS process improvements are expected to commence from 1 January 2021.

A Fact Sheet outlining the Stage 2 changes to be implemented is now available in the resources section of the PBS Process Improvements page.

Stage 2 changes are expected to include:

• Changes to submission categories (including introduction of a single submission date).
• Introduction of resubmission pathways for submissions not recommended by the PBAC.
• Revised cost recovery arrangements to support implementation of Stage 2 process improvements.
• Other improvements, including IT system changes.

On 21 September 2020, the department hosted a webinar providing information on Stage 2 changes. The slides accompanying the webinar will be available on the PBS website on Thursday 24 September 2020.  

Background

The Australian Government signed a five-year strategic agreement with Medicines Australia committing to a viable medicines sector in Australia and a sustainable PBS.

The Department of Health and Medicines Australia have been working since late 2017 to deliver on commitments to streamline medicines listing processes and revise cost recovery arrangements as set out under clause 10 of the Strategic Agreement.

Improved processes and revised cost recovery arrangements support the Government’s commitment under the strategic agreement to improve the transparency, timeliness and efficiency of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) listing processes. Once implemented, changes will ensure that Australians continue to receive timely and affordable access to necessary medicines.