Last week, the Albanese Labor Government announced that children aged 6 to 11 with cystic fibrosis will have access to the medicine, Trikafta, through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from the 1 May 2023.

This announcement, made by the Federal Minister for Health, the Hon. Mark Butler MP, is a game changer for children living with cystic fibrosis and will greatly improve their lives.

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease which causes mucus in organs, particularly the lungs, to become thick and sticky. Over time, this results in persistent lung infections, limited ability to breathe and often, irreversible lung damage. 

Providing equitable access to healthcare is a key aim for Dr Mike Freelander MP, who actively pursues this in his role as the Federal Member for Macarthur, particularly through his role as the Chair of the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport and through his Parliamentary Friendship groups.

One group is the Parliamentary Friends of Cystic Fibrosis, which Dr Freelander co-chairs with Dr Monique Ryan MP and Ms Bridget Archer MP.

This group has provided individuals affected by cystic fibrosis and their advocates with a platform to engage with Parliamentarians to bring about this change.

As a result of this announcement, families of eligible children aged 6 to 11 years will now be able to access Trikafta through the PBS for a maximum of $30 per script, or just $7.30 with a concession card. Without this subsidy, Trikafta could cost families more than $250,000 per year.

According to Cystic Fibrosis Australia, the estimated median survival of a person with cystic fibrosis in Australia is 47 years. Now, treatments like Trikafta are likely to extend life expectancy and improve the quality of life for these children.   

Quotes attributable to Dr Freelander:
“I am very pleased with this announcement, and I thank Minister Butler, Cystic Fibrosis Australia, particularly Jo Armstrong, and all the families affected by this disease for their tireless efforts and advocacy.”

“By listing Trikafta on the PBS, over 500 Australian children each year will now be able to access this crucial medication and help improve their life expectancy and quality of life.”