Improving the Health System

We work closely with other Government organisations, states and territories to develop policies and regulations.

Developing sustainable hospital funding arrangements

On 1 April 2016, the Australian Government reached agreement with the states and territories to provide additional funding for public hospital services over the next three years. This Agreement has an increased focus on improving patient safety, the quality of services and reducing unnecessary hospitalisations, in addition to preserving important parts of the existing system, including activity based funding and the national efficient price.

We are continuing to work with the states and territories to develop a fair and efficient hospital funding scheme that will support the health of all Australians over the long term.

For performance information about hospitals visit MyHospitals.

For public hospital funding arrangements and reports visit National Health Reform Public Hospital Funding website.

A more agile mental health system

In 2015, the Australian Government responded to the National Mental Health Commission’s Review of Mental Health Programmes and Services.

We are working with the Department of Health to reform the system. A key component of this reform will be the Digital Mental Health Gateway which will provide a single access point for phone and online mental health support. It will provide access to information, advice and digital services including e-therapies and self-help resources.

Coordinated care packages will be created for people with severe and complex mental health needs, while flexible support arrangements, funded through Primary Health Networks, will be available for people with mild and moderate needs.

More information on mental health policy is available on the Department of Health website.

MyHealth

Our work with the Department of Health also includes the redevelopment of MyHealth records. This will include making the system more user-friendly for patients and health workers.

Creating a nationally-consistent medicinal cannabis cultivation scheme

In February 2016, Parliament passed legislation establishing a national licensing scheme for the cultivation of medicinal cannabis. This is the first step towards ensuring Australians suffering debilitating illnesses have access to a safe, legal and sustainable supply of medicinal cannabis.

We are supporting the Prime Minister, Premiers and Chief Ministers to progress this important agenda through the Council of Australian Governments, including measures to support consistent approaches for patient access across Australia.

We will continue working closely with the Department of Health, states and territories to develop the regulations for the scheme.