Help us protect access to affordable, effective MS treatments
Two disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), Ocrevus and Kesimpta, are currently at risk of being withdrawn from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), as a consequence of government price reductions.Â
Find out why this is such a concern, what MS Australia is doing and how you can help.
Why is this such a concern?
The two medications are both high-efficacy multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies that are used as first-line treatments for many Australians. Â
Long-term real-world observational studies show they are among the most effective treatments for slowing disability progression, particularly when started early in the disease course. Â
Ocrevus and Kesimpta are life-changing medications that reduce disability, keep people in the workforce and improve quality of life.Â
1 July 2026
As someone living with MS, and as someone who advocates every day for Australians affected by this disease, I find it incredibly difficult to understand how the Government could contemplate restricting access to medications that have transformed lives and delivered proven outcomes for so many people."
Sharlene Brown
Independent Director, MS Australia
What is MS Australia doing?
MS Australia has raised its concerns with PBAC and the Health Minister, Mark Butler, and engaged with Members of Parliament. Â
We have also brought our concerns to the Australian media.Â
Asked to respond to reporting by The Australian, at a doorstop at Parliament House, Canberra, on Wednesday 1 July, the Health Minister said he wanted to see these medicines remain on the PBS.Â
MS Australia welcomes the Minister's comments.Â
I've represented Australia on the world stage as a Paralympian, but my greatest challenge has always been living with MS. Please don't take away the treatment that is helping me continue to live the life I've worked so hard to build."
Carol Cooke AM PLY
MS Australia LEEP Member
What happens now and how you can help
PBAC is expected to meet later this month to consider this matter.Â
MS Australia, together with other stakeholders, including the Australian and New Zealand Association of Neurologists (ANZAN) and MS Nurses Australasia (MSNA) will continue to advocate directly with PBAC and the Health Minister.Â
Ensure your voice is heard and your story toldÂ
Are you one of thousands of Australians living with MS who could be impacted if these medications were removed from the PBS?
Email your local Federal Member and tell them your story. Consider telling them: Â
- The length of time you have been on the treatment.
- The success of the treatment and the difference it has made to your life or the life of your family member or loved one.
- The impact that removing the treatment from the PBS will have on you, your family members and loved ones including your health and wellbeing and ability to engage in employment, study and family, community and social life.Â
And urge your local member to bring the issue to the urgent attention of the Minister for Health, Mark Butler.
MS-related disability is often irreversible. Once function is lost, it can be difficult—or impossible to regain. For people living with MS, access to effective treatment is not simply a healthcare expense; it is an investment in preventing disability, preserving independence, and enabling ongoing participation in work, family, and community life."
Rachel Kerr
MS Australia LEEP Member
How to contact your local Federal MPÂ
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Enter your post code to reveal your Electorate and the name of your local MP.Â
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Once you have those details, click below to obtain your local MP's contact details.Â
Thank you for your support and willingness to share your story.
I am now currently on Kesimpta and it is my last option of medication. I cannot afford to pay for the medication if it is not funded by the PBS."
Janine Watson PLY
MS Australia LEEP Member
Do you have questions or need support?
We understand this news will be concerning for people living with MS, particularly those currently taking Ocrevus or Kesimpta.
It is important to emphasise that at this stage, no final decision has been made.
People should continue their current treatment as advised by their healthcare team.
Consider reaching out to your GP, neurologist or healthcare team if you have questions or concerns you wish to discuss regarding MS treatment options.
If this news is causing you significant distress, support is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14. Lifeline provides a free, confidential 24-hour crisis support service.
MS Australia will continue advocating for ongoing access to these treatments through the PBS and will keep the MS community informed of any developments.
Help us protect access to affordable, effective MS treatments
