Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

National Health Amendment (Passive Immunological Products) Bill 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Tuesday 10 February 2026

Continued from Thursday 5 February 2026.

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned a technical amendment to allow passive immunological products, such as those for respiratory syncytial virus, to be considered for listing on the National Immunisation Program. The sole speaker, Melissa Price, supported the bill as a necessary reform to ensure national consistency and affordable access for families. She argued that the legislation updates definitions to include products providing ready-made antibodies, which were previously excluded. While endorsing the bill, she criticised the government for delays in health technology assessments and an aged-care crisis that pressures hospitals.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Melissa Price (Durack) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Price endorsed the legislation as a practical technical change that enhances cost-effective availability of immunisation products, especially for safeguarding infants against respiratory syncytial virus. Price stated that the law revises the vaccine definition to encompass passive immunological products, enabling them to undergo the current strict assessment for National Immunisation Program inclusion. Price noted that the measure does not automatically list items or change no-jab no-pay rules. Price contended that national listing would ensure uniform access across jurisdictions, resolving present disparities in temporary funding.