How to submit consumer comments to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) 

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) convenes multiple times annually to evaluate new medications and consider extensions for those already listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The PBAC actively seeks input from patients, carers, health professionals, consumer groups, and the public regarding medicines and vaccines under consideration. ​

Why your input matters 

Personal insights are invaluable to the PBAC’s decision-making process. Sharing your experiences can illuminate the real-world impact of living with cystic fibrosis, including:

    • Health challenges such as declining lung function, cystic fibrosis related diabetes, liver disease, and mental health issues.
    • Daily treatment burdens, including time-consuming or invasive therapies and the cost of these therapies.
    • The necessity for timely access to new medications to prevent on-going co-morbidities resulting in surgeries, or transplants, which requite long-term hospitalisations.

If you’re currently benefiting from a particular medication, detailing its positive effects can underscore the importance of broader access. Personalised, original submissions are most impactful; there’s no need to include general information or clinical trial data.

Steps to submit your comments: 

    1. Access the Consultation Hub: Visit the Office of Health Technology Assessment (OHTA) consultation hub.
    1. Navigate to PBAC Consultations: Click on the “PBAC consultations” link to view current public consultations.
    1. Select the Relevant Consultation: Identify and select the consultation pertaining to the medication or vaccine relevant to cystic fibrosis.
    1. Provide Your Input: Click on the link to the online survey associated with the selected consultation.
    1. Complete the Survey: Follow the prompts to provide your comments, ensuring you select the appropriate medication or vaccine when prompted.

For additional guidance, you can download a copy of the survey questions and further instructions from the consultation page.

Need Assistance? 

If you have questions about upcoming or current consultations, contact the Consumer Evidence and Engagement Unit.

Your participation is crucial in shaping decisions that affect the cystic fibrosis community. By sharing your experiences and insights, you contribute to ensuring timely access to essential medications.