The Australian government has recently allocated A$228.7 million ($144 million) to enhance the national digital health record system. This investment is aimed at modernising the My Health Record platform and transforming it into a data-rich clinical tool that can be seamlessly integrated into healthcare workflows, facilitating greater connectivity and real-time information sharing across care settings.
Under the Health Delivery Transformation Program, essential work on the My Health Record system has received additional state funding of A$15.6 million ($9.8 million) for the next two years. This funding emphasizes the government’s commitment to enhancing the functionality and usability of the digital health record system.
Furthermore, the government has earmarked A$91 million ($57 million) to support the digital implementation of the Aged Care Act, demonstrating its dedication to improving healthcare services for the elderly population. Additionally, A$5.7 million ($3.6 million) has been allocated for the national electronic prescribing infrastructure and services, while A$46 million ($29 million) will be invested over the next three years to fund national crisis support services and low-intensity digital mental health services.
In a broader context, the modernisation of the My Health Record system initially received funding of A$429 million ($290 million) in Budget 2023. Despite significant uptake, a Productivity Commission report highlighted the system’s “poor usability” due to incomplete and inconsistent access to records, leading to missed opportunities for potential annual savings.
To address these challenges, the government recently approved an amendment to the My Health Records Act, making pathology and diagnostic imaging reports sharing to the national record default and expanding its coverage. Budget 2025 also focuses on collaborating with the industry to establish connections and enhance the sharing and utilization of clinical content in My Health Record, including the Allied Health sector.
As part of the modernisation efforts, the Australian Digital Health Agency is seeking to develop a FHIR-based server for My Health Record, with a $30 million offer released in October. This initiative aims to improve interoperability and data exchange within the healthcare ecosystem.
Moreover, the new digital funding supporting age care reforms aligns with last year’s $1 billion investment to upgrade the sector’s technology systems and digital infrastructure, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services for the elderly population.
Overall, these investments and initiatives demonstrate the Australian government’s commitment to advancing digital health infrastructure and improving healthcare delivery for all Australians.
