The Australian Clincial Trials Alliance (ACTA) welcomes the commitment of the Federal Government to improving the health of Australians through the budget announcements made on 25 October 2022. The $104.9b health package and $30.6b aged care package will see significant and important changes to general practice, primary health, Medicare, medication affordability, First Nations health and the healthcare workforce.

While clinical trials weren’t specifically mentioned within this budget, ACTA do not believe that this is an indication of a lack of interest in this area, or the powerful impact that trials have on the healthcare system.

The Government’s increased funding for initiatives to support First Nations People, non-indigenous Australians, and LGBTIQ+ Australians, is aligned with ACTA’s view that these groups are underrepresented in healthcare access and uptake, including recruitment and involvement in clinical trials.

We also see alignment between the budget and a number of ACTA’s key priority areas including rare and complex diseases, telehealth for rural and regional patients, workforce recruitment investment, and reducing pressures on the hospital system.

Dr Stewart Hay, ACTA CEO said, “We recognise the commitment to restraint in this the first budget of the Albanese government. However, we do look forward to the prospect of working together with the Prime Minister, Minister Butler and their respective teams over the coming years as the government delivers on its aim to improve health outcomes for the Australian population.”

“Investment into clinical trials and clinical quality registries supports the continued evolution of our health system. Through insights from these tools we are able to deliver not only better health outcomes but also improved cost effectiveness.”