Pre-Budget Submission for the 2024-25 Federal Budget
25 January 2024
Budget
MS Australia’s 2024-2025 Pre-Budget Submission seeks commitments from the Australian Government of $8 million for an MS Biobank and funding for neurological research, $6.5 million for 65 MS Nurses, and $3 million for a Tasmanian MS nurse pilot project. It emphasises the need for better disability and aged care support, aligning with recommendations from the NDIS Review and Disability Royal Commission to improve the lives of those with MS in Australia.
MS Australia is writing to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) in support of the request to include ocrelizumab (Ocrevus®) via subcutaneous (SC) delivery on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of people living with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
MS Australia is writing to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) in support of the request to include ublituximab (Briumvi®) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of people living with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS).
MS Australia’s 2025-26 Pre-Budget Submission advocates for strategic investments to support over 33,300 Australians living with MS. Key funding asks include $8M for a National MS Biobank, $300M for a Neurological Research Mission, and $550K for neurological data improvements; $6.5M to expand MS nursing services, a national strategy, and training programs; Improved NDIS pricing, workforce, assistive technology, and income support; and Increased funding for disability-specific aged care services.
MS Australia’s submission on the second round of NDIS Act amendments supports enhanced statutory duties for providers and key personnel, emphasising accountability and the need for guidance, training, and clarity. It endorses stronger penalties but urges proportionality and clear definitions. Anti-promotion orders, expanded banning categories, and data storage rules are welcomed with caveats. The recommendations focus on balancing safeguarding participants with practical provider considerations.
