Submissions

MS Australia has undertaken an analysis of the 2025-26 Budget to explore how it will impact the lives of people living with MS.

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.

MS Australia’s submission on the new Aged Care Rules for funding for the Support at Home Program calls for improving funding for older Australians with disabilities. Key recommendations include aligning funding with NDIS levels, allowing aged care recipients to access NDIS supports, and providing detailed guidance on the new Assistive Technology and Home Modifications program. The document highlights the unique needs of older people with MS and advocates for equitable access to disability-specific services and housing support.

MS Australia’s submission on NDIS pricing reform emphasises greater transparency, participant-focused flexibility, and improved funding structures. Key recommendations include tiered pricing for support workers, adjustments for rural travel costs, regular plan reviews for progressive conditions, and innovative payment models like fee-for-service. The proposal advocates for aligning pricing with actual service delivery costs and incentivising professional development to ensure sustainable, high-quality care for people with disabilities, including those with MS.

MS Australia’s submission on the New Aged Care Service List consultation recommends aligning the list with NDIS supports to better address the needs of older Australians with disabilities, particularly those with MS. Key proposals include adding support for independent living, skill-building, assistive technology, and support for carers. The submission highlights gaps in the current list, advocating for comprehensive support to enhance independence and community involvement for older adults.

The joint submission by MS Australia and MS Nurses Australasia highlights the importance of MS specialist nursing in the draft National Nursing Workforce Strategy. It advocates for investing in specialist nurses, improving employment conditions, and supporting nurse-led clinics. It stresses the value of MS nurse care in improving health outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and meeting the needs of Australians with MS, especially in rural areas, while emphasizing the shortfall of MS nurses nationwid