Consultation

Self-testing in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs) in Australia

Due 22 November

(a) Tests for the presence of, or exposure to, pathogenic organisms or transmissible agents (other than the Human Immunodeficiency Virus), including agents that cause notifiable infectious diseases;

(b) Genetic tests to determine the presence of, or susceptibility to, diseases in humans;

(c) Tests to diagnose, aid in diagnosis or indicate the presence of a serious disease or condition, such as cancer or myocardial infarction;

(d) Tests for the presence of markers that are precursors to a serious disease or condition, such as Pap smear tests (marker for cervical cancer) or prostate specific antigen tests (marker for prostate cancer).

The feedback received in response to the consultation will inform a recommendation to the Minister on whether to remake the Excluded Purposes Specification after it automatically expires (sunsets) in October 2020.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder Senate Inquiry

Due 29 November

The terms of reference include effective approaches to prevention and diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), strategies for optimising life outcomes for people with FASD and supporting carers, and the prevalence and management of FASD, including in vulnerable populations, in the education system, and in the criminal justice system.  Submissions can be made now.

Implementing the Third Review of the Gene Technology Scheme: Phase 1

Due 29 November

Of particular interest is the Review’s recommendation six, that:

a) the definition of a genetically modified organism under the Gene Technology Act 2000 (Cth) be amended to clarify that humans are not considered to be GMOs; and that

b) subject to consideration, the COAG (Council of Australian Governments) Health Council might also consider whether additional regulatory oversight is needed for humans who may receive or inherit germline therapies (or other somatic therapies not within the remit of the Scheme). The COAG Health Council should also consider which regulatory (or other) body would be most appropriate to undertake such oversight.

The issues paper is available from the website (a link is embedded in the heading on the left).

Accelerating R&D in NSW

Due 13 December

The government is seeking to answer:

·       how do we get the most out of NSW Government’s R&D activity

·       how can the NSW Government support and improve the R&D and commercialisation ecosystem more generally?

Participation is through an online survey.

Obesity Strategy

Due 15 December

A consultation paper is available to guide participation through the survey, public forums, community discussions and webinars.

Pre- Budget Submissions

Due 20 December

If you would like to contribute to Research Australia’s Pre-Budget submission, please contact Greg Mullins, Head of Policy. greg.mullins@researchaustralia.org

Productivity Commission- Mental Health

Due 23 January 2020

‘The cost to the Australian economy of mental ill-health and suicide is, conservatively, in the order of $43 to $51 billion per year. Additional to this is an approximately $130 billion cost associated with diminished health and reduced life expectancy for those living with mental ill-health.’

The Draft report has identified five key reform areas, including to research into mental health and the mental health system.

If you are interested in contributing to Research Australia’s submission please contact Greg Mullins, Head of Policy at greg.mullins@researchaustralia.org or on 03 9662 9420.