Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Therapeutic Goods Amendment (Medicines Shortages and Other Measures) Bill 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Thursday 2 July 2026

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

At a glance

The debate concerned the introduction of the Therapeutic Goods Amendment (Medicines Shortages and Other Measures) Bill 2026 in the House of Representatives. Assistant Minister Rebecca White moved the motion for the second reading, outlining measures to strengthen mandatory reporting of medicine shortages and reduce regulatory burdens for biological products. The minister highlighted that the bill would require earlier notification of permanent discontinuations and allow the secretary to request availability data for all approved medicines. The debate was adjourned without a final vote recorded in the provided transcript.

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

Opened the debate

Rebecca White (Lyons) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

White supported the bill, arguing it would improve the management of medicines shortages and discontinuations to protect patient health. White stated that the legislation would require sponsors to notify the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing at least 12 months in advance of any decision to permanently discontinue reportable medicines. White explained that this extended timeframe would allow health practitioners and patients more time to plan for ongoing treatment needs. White also noted that the bill would enable the secretary to request availability information for any approved medicine, not just those currently designated as reportable.