Breakthrough drug price drops under PBS changes starting July
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Good news is on the horizon for Australians living with cystic fibrosis (CF), as a life-changing medication is about to become much more affordable for hundreds of families across the country.
From 1 July, the price of a breakthrough drug that has been described as a game-changer for people with CF—will be slashed thanks to changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
What’s Changing and Who Benefits?
Trikafta, which was previously out of reach for many due to its eye-watering cost of over $250,000 per year, will now be available for a maximum of $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 for concession card holders.
And there’s even more good news: from January next year, the maximum price for PBS medicines will drop further to $25 per script, making this vital treatment even more accessible.
The latest PBS expansion means that not only adults but also children with rarer mutations of cystic fibrosis will be eligible for subsidised access to Trikafta.
This is a significant step forward, as the drug was previously only available to patients aged 12 and over with specific gene mutations.
Now, an estimated 180 more Australians will benefit from this change.
Why Is Trikafta Such a Big Deal?
Cystic fibrosis is a cruel, incurable genetic disease that causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus, leading to severe damage in the lungs, digestive system, and other organs.
Over time, this can result in irreversible organ damage, frequent hospitalisations, and a significantly reduced life expectancy.
Trikafta works by targeting the underlying genetic defect that causes CF, rather than just treating the symptoms.
For many, it has been nothing short of revolutionary, improving lung function, reducing hospital visits, and dramatically enhancing quality of life.
Some patients have even described it as 'life-changing,' allowing them to breathe easier, gain weight, and live more active, fulfilling lives.
A Global Leader in Access
Jo Armstrong, CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Australia, hailed the decision as a 'transformational outcome' and said it places Australia as a global leader in equitable access to CF therapies.
'For those who’ve waited, hoped, and campaigned, this is more than a policy decision—it’s a transformational outcome,' Armstrong said.
The move is expected to bring hope and relief to families who have spent years fighting for access to the latest treatments.
The Bigger Picture: The PBS and Affordable Medicines
The PBS is one of Australia’s most important health initiatives, ensuring that essential medicines are affordable for everyone, not just those who can afford them.
The inclusion of Trikafta for more CF patients is a shining example of how the PBS can change lives, especially for those with rare or chronic conditions.
Health Minister Mark Butler emphasised the significance of the change, saying, 'This expansion to Trikafta’s PBS listing is great news for hundreds of Australians who live with rare mutations of CF, including children, and their families.'
What Does This Mean for Seniors and Their Families?
While cystic fibrosis is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, many of our members may have grandchildren or loved ones affected by this condition.
The expanded access to Trikafta could mean a brighter, healthier future for the next generation and less worry for families who have watched their loved ones struggle with the disease.
Looking Ahead: Hope for the Future
Although cystic fibrosis remains incurable, advances like Trikafta offer real hope.
With ongoing research and continued support for the PBS, we can look forward to even more breakthroughs in the years to come, not just for CF, but for a range of chronic and rare diseases.
Do you or someone you know live with cystic fibrosis? How do you feel about this new development? Have you or your family ever struggled to access expensive medications? We’d love to hear your stories, thoughts, and experiences in the comments below.
Read more: Breakthrough drug for rare disease joins the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
From 1 July, the price of a breakthrough drug that has been described as a game-changer for people with CF—will be slashed thanks to changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
What’s Changing and Who Benefits?
Trikafta, which was previously out of reach for many due to its eye-watering cost of over $250,000 per year, will now be available for a maximum of $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 for concession card holders.
And there’s even more good news: from January next year, the maximum price for PBS medicines will drop further to $25 per script, making this vital treatment even more accessible.
The cost of Trikafta will be reduced for Australians with cystic fibrosis under new PBS changes from 1 July. Credit: Facebook
The latest PBS expansion means that not only adults but also children with rarer mutations of cystic fibrosis will be eligible for subsidised access to Trikafta.
This is a significant step forward, as the drug was previously only available to patients aged 12 and over with specific gene mutations.
Now, an estimated 180 more Australians will benefit from this change.
Why Is Trikafta Such a Big Deal?
Cystic fibrosis is a cruel, incurable genetic disease that causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus, leading to severe damage in the lungs, digestive system, and other organs.
Over time, this can result in irreversible organ damage, frequent hospitalisations, and a significantly reduced life expectancy.
Trikafta works by targeting the underlying genetic defect that causes CF, rather than just treating the symptoms.
For many, it has been nothing short of revolutionary, improving lung function, reducing hospital visits, and dramatically enhancing quality of life.
Some patients have even described it as 'life-changing,' allowing them to breathe easier, gain weight, and live more active, fulfilling lives.
A Global Leader in Access
Jo Armstrong, CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Australia, hailed the decision as a 'transformational outcome' and said it places Australia as a global leader in equitable access to CF therapies.
'For those who’ve waited, hoped, and campaigned, this is more than a policy decision—it’s a transformational outcome,' Armstrong said.
The move is expected to bring hope and relief to families who have spent years fighting for access to the latest treatments.
The Bigger Picture: The PBS and Affordable Medicines
The PBS is one of Australia’s most important health initiatives, ensuring that essential medicines are affordable for everyone, not just those who can afford them.
The inclusion of Trikafta for more CF patients is a shining example of how the PBS can change lives, especially for those with rare or chronic conditions.
Health Minister Mark Butler emphasised the significance of the change, saying, 'This expansion to Trikafta’s PBS listing is great news for hundreds of Australians who live with rare mutations of CF, including children, and their families.'
What Does This Mean for Seniors and Their Families?
While cystic fibrosis is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, many of our members may have grandchildren or loved ones affected by this condition.
The expanded access to Trikafta could mean a brighter, healthier future for the next generation and less worry for families who have watched their loved ones struggle with the disease.
Looking Ahead: Hope for the Future
Although cystic fibrosis remains incurable, advances like Trikafta offer real hope.
With ongoing research and continued support for the PBS, we can look forward to even more breakthroughs in the years to come, not just for CF, but for a range of chronic and rare diseases.
Read more: Breakthrough drug for rare disease joins the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
