18 May 2026
Tasmania introduces IVF rebate to make fertility treatment more affordable
The Tasmanian Government has announced a new support program to help reduce the cost of fertility treatment, offering eligible residents a rebate of up to $2,000 for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and other fertility services.
18 May 2026
Free green whistles introduced for IUD procedures across Victoria
Women accessing IUD insertions or removals at Victorian Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs can now receive free pain relief using Penthrox inhalers, commonly known as green whistles.
18 May 2026
New obesity guideline highlights growing role of GLP-1 medicines in heart health
Australia’s first clinical consensus statement on obesity and cardiovascular disease says medicines such as GLP-1s could play an important role in reducing heart disease risk through better obesity management.
16 May 2026
Australians join national conversations on end-of-life care during awareness week
National Palliative Care Week 2026 has concluded after reaching millions of Australians and encouraging widespread discussion about death, dying, and end-of-life care.
15 May 2026
Australia seeing rising demand for palliative care, AIHW reports show
New national reports released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) show that demand for palliative care in Australia is rising quickly, alongside steady improvements in the quality of care being delivered.
15 May 2026
Hantavirus travellers return: what GPs need to know
Six passengers linked to a hantavirus-related cruise ship have been repatriated to Australia and are currently in quarantine, raising questions for general practice about potential risk and response.
15 May 2026
RSV immunisation program cuts newborn hospital admissions across Australia
Australia’s RSV immunisation program has led to a major drop in hospital admissions among newborns, with early research showing hospitalisations in babies under three months fell by almost 44% in the program’s first year.
15 May 2026
DVA Chief Health Officer focused on improving veterans’ healthcare access
Dr Steph Davis, the Chief Health Officer at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), says improving access to healthcare and making the system easier to navigate are key priorities in her role.
15 May 2026
New proposal to update CPD and practice rules for health workers in Australia
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and 14 National Boards are asking for feedback on planned changes to how health practitioners stay active in their work and keep their skills up to date.
15 May 2026
New TGA guidance explains rules for compounded medicines in Australia
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has released updated guidance to help health practitioners understand the legal requirements for preparing and supplying compounded medicines in Australia.