Fighting Superbugs: Ensuring Australia is ready to combat the rise of drug resistant infections

This report provides nine recommendations to ensure Australia is ready to combat the rise of drug resistant infections.

Addressing the threat of AMR requires the development of 15 new antibiotics over the next 10 years. With an average 10-to-15-year lead time for novel antimicrobials to make it from the laboratory to a patient, it is critical that we act now.

Government and key stakeholders must demonstrate leadership and a commitment to reforming the regulatory and funding landscape for novel antimicrobial medicines.

1. Pilot a subscription model in Australia for two novel antimicrobials.
2. Strengthen existing, and introduce additional, flexible data exclusivity extension options for novel antimicrobials in Australia.
3. Increase the quantum of AMR research funding in Australia.
4. Establish and appropriately fund an Australian AMR accelerator, as well as contribute to and leverage global initiatives such as CARB-X.
5. Continue to promote R&D investment in Australia, including through raising awareness of Clinical Trial Notification (CTN) scheme and R&D Tax incentive.
6. Provide accelerated pathways and reduce barriers for the regulatory approval of novel antimicrobials in Australia.
7. Develop fit-for-purpose HTA pathways for antimicrobial medicines as part of the HTA Review currently underway.
8. Identify AMR as Australia’s 11th National Health Priority Area.
9. Encourage uptake of timely point-of-care testing for antimicrobial infections.