Historic win: Prescription medicine costs cut to ease burden for millions

This achievement marks only the second time in history that the cost of PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) prescriptions has been lowered, and it’s a testament to the power of patient advocacy and collaborative action.

The campaign was supported by more than 20 partner organisations, including Patients Australia, Asthma Australia, Sexual and Reproductive Health Australia, QENDO, Australian Association for Adolescent Health, Wounds Australia, Parents & Citizens Queensland, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and Advanced Pharmacy Australia.

It was driven by a simple but urgent goal: to make medicines more affordable and accessible for all Australians. We heard countless stories from patients struggling to afford the medications they need to manage chronic conditions, and we knew something had to change.

In July, Australia’s Albanese Government introduced legislation to cap the price of PBS-listed prescription medicines at AUD25, down from the current AUD31.60, starting January 1, 2026.

The announcement was made at Capital Chemist Kingston, in Canberra, with Health Minister Mark Butler, Assistant Minister Emma McBride, and the PGA’s National President, Professor Trent Twomey, in attendance. PGA proudly supported this historic moment.

At the heart of our campaign were patient advocates like Jess and Cara, who bravely shared their personal experiences.

They spoke about the daily challenges of living with chronic illness, the high cost of medications, and the difficulty of accessing the right dosage.

Their stories resonated deeply with the public and policymakers alike, highlighting the human cost of unaffordable healthcare.

This reform is a huge win for patients

As this magazine went to print, Australia’s lawmakers passed the legislation in a late-night vote on September 1. It means fewer people will have to make heartbreaking decisions between buying food or filling a prescription.

It means fewer patients will be forced to ration their medication or ask pharmacists how to reduce their dosage to make it last longer. It means better health outcomes for individuals and communities.

Research commissioned during the campaign revealed one in five Australians had been unable to afford a prescription in the past three years.

The figure was even higher among women and those living in regional and rural areas, underscoring the urgent need for change. These statistics are more than numbers — they represent real people facing real barriers to care.

As healthcare professionals, we understand the consequences when patients don’t take their medicine as prescribed.

Poor adherence leads to worsening health, increased hospitalisations, and greater strain on the healthcare system.

Making medicines more affordable is a critical step toward improving adherence and building healthier communities.

We were pleased when the Australian Government responded to our calls for action. The reduction to AUD25 per script will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many Australians.

Importantly, the change also applies to new PBS-listed medicines, including treatments for menopause, endometriosis, breast cancer, and various forms of arthritis and cancer.

This ensures patients have access not only to affordable medicines, but also to the latest and most effective treatments.

In addition to the price reduction, the Australian Government has committed to accelerating the listing process for new medicines on the PBS.

This is a vital step forward. Timely access to breakthrough therapies can dramatically improve patient outcomes, and we welcome this commitment to innovation and equity.

With the legislation now passed, pharmacies and healthcare providers across the country will begin preparing for the transition.

Patients are encouraged to speak with their local pharmacist to understand how the changes will affect them and which medications will be covered under the new pricing structure.

The PGA will continue to work closely with government and industry partners to ensure a smooth rollout and to advocate for further reforms that support patient care.

We believe every Australian deserves access to affordable, highquality healthcare — and this law brings us one step closer to that goal.

I am incredibly proud to have been part of this campaign.

It was driven by compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to putting patients first.

Together, we’ve made history — and together, we’ll keep working to build a healthier, fairer Australia.