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Making Queenslanders Australias healthiest people - Advancing health action In October 2005, the Queensland Government released the Action Plan – Building a better health service for Queensland (the Health Action Plan), to address issues arising from the Queensland Health Systems Review (Forster Review) and the Queensland Public Hospitals Commission of Inquiry (Davies Inquiry). It is now timely to build on these reforms with a stronger focus on new and innovative non-hos
Health Quality and Complaints Commission Report into Mackay Base Hospital Following concerns raised in the Commonwealth House of Representatives about the employment of Dr Abdalla Khalafalla as a specialist at Mackay Base Hospital from May 2004 to August 2006, the Minister for Health directed the Health Quality and Complaints Commission (HQCC) to investigate the quality of health services at Mackay Base Hospital. All recommendations of the HQCC Report are supported by
Making Tracks to Close the Gap - Indigenous Primary Health Care in Cape York Under the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), the Queensland Government has committed to closing the gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians within a generation, and to halving the Indigenous mortality gap for children under five within a decade. A “Statement of Intent” on closing the gap was signed between the Australian Government and Indigenous Australian
Public Hospitals Performance Report - June 2008 Cabinet considered the Public Hospitals Performance Report for the June 2008 quarter. Hospital Activity The June 2008 quarter is a record quarter with a total of 219,295 admitted patient episodes of care, up by 10,438 or 5.0% from the same period last year. Over the last 3 years admitted patient episodes of care for the June quarter have increased by 13%. For the 2007-08 year, 865,534 patients
Structural Reform of the Department of Health Following the Forster report (September 2005), the Minister for Health devolved significant accountability and decision-making from Corporate Office to three Area Health Services. In September 2006, the then 37 Health Service Districts were consolidated into 20 larger districts with greater independence from the Area Health Services, although Area Health Services functions remained unchanged. The
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Health At the Premier’s request, paediatrician Dr Richard Heazlewood and Dr Lara Weiland, a Cape York General Practitioner, addressed Cabinet regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child health. Drs Heazlewood and Weiland also presented Cabinet with a copy of their paper on Indigenous disadvantage in Cape York entitled “Fight for Life”, which had been submitted to the Senate Select Committee on
Response to Coroner Recommendation into Police Shooting Deaths In March 2008, the State Coroner handed down his findings from the inquest into four police shooting deaths. The deceased all had a history of mental illness, the symptoms of which brought them into contact with police, and were shot and killed in separate incidents between 2003 and 2006. The Coroner found that each of the four deaths was legally justifiable and the police acted in a reasonable
Response to Coroner Recommendation into Police Shooting Deaths In March 2008, the State Coroner handed down his findings from the inquest into four police shooting deaths. The deceased all had a history of mental illness, the symptoms of which brought them into contact with police, and were shot and killed in separate incidents between 2003 and 2006. The Coroner found that each of the four deaths was legally justifiable and the police acted in a reasonable
Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report September 2008 Cabinet considered the Public Hospitals Performance Report for the September 2008 quarter. Hospital Activity In the September quarter 2008 there was a total of 221,319 admitted patient episodes of care, up by 12,358 or 5.9% from the same period last year. Emergency Department Performance During the September quarter 2008 there were 277,109 emergency department presentations in Queensland’s 27 lar
Health Practitioner Regulation (Admin Arrangements) National Law Bill 2008 The Health Practitioner Regulation (Administrative Arrangements) National Law Bill 2008 (‘the Bill’) is to provide a national law, hosted by Queensland, that will facilitate the first stage development and implementation of the national registration and accreditation scheme for health practitioners (‘the national scheme’). The Bill is consistent with, and builds on, the Intergovernmental Agreeme
Mater Public Health Bill 2008 Mater Misericordiae Health Services Brisbane Ltd (the Mater) currently operates three public hospitals and three private hospitals at the Mater’s South Brisbane campus. Queensland Health provides funding to the Mater for the delivery of health services to public patients (public patient services) by the Mater public hospitals. Since 2002, the funding has been governed by a 20 year agreement and
Queensland Drug Strategy 2006-2010 The goal of the Queensland Drug Strategy 2006-2010, Queensland’s whole-of-Government policy for addressing drug issues, is to improve health, social and economic outcomes by preventing the uptake of harmful drug use and reducing the harmful effects of licit and illicit drugs in Queensland. The Strategy outlines and assists with the coordination of Queensland Government programs and initiatives, a
Govt Response to Altruistic Surrogacy On 14 February 2008, the Legislative Assembly resolved to appoint the Investigation into Altruistic Surrogacy Committee (the Committee). On 8 October 2008, the Committee tabled its report in the Legislative Assembly, Investigation into the Decriminalisation and Regulation of Altruistic Surrogacy in Queensland (the Surrogacy Report). The Committee recommended that altruistic surrogacy be decrimina
Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report - June 09 The Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report provides an overview of Queensland public hospitals including: inpatient activity, elective surgery waiting times, emergency department presentations and staffing. Hospital Activity Admitted patient episodes of care have increased by 5.3% from the same quarter last year and 2008-09 totals show an increase of 6.0% from the previous year, resulti
Queensland Government response to the Smart State Council's sixth set of reports The Smart State Council was established in 2005 as a high-level advisory body to the Queensland Government on Smart State issues and trends. The Council is chaired by the Premier and includes Ministerial representation along with a Standing Committee comprising high level representatives from industry, academia and community sectors. Since the release of Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland in Septem
Quarterly Public Hospitals Report - Dec 08 The Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report, provides an overview of Queensland public hospitals including: inpatient activity, elective surgery waiting times, emergency department presentations and staffing. Hospital Activity In the December quarter 2008 there was a total of 218,908 admitted patient episodes of care, up by 12,284 or 5.9% from the same period last year. Emergency Departme
Government Response to Review of the Organ and Tissue Donation Procedure Report The Review of the Organ and Tissue Donation Procedures Select Committee (Committee) of the Queensland Parliament was convened to investigate whether presumed consent should be introduced and whether there are other options that should be considered to improve organ and tissue donation rates in Queensland. The Report of the Committee was published on 28 October 2008. It does not support Queenslan
Surrogacy - proposed Queensland model On 23 April 2009, the Premier and Minister for the Arts made a statement in Parliament announcing that the Queensland Government would decriminalise altruistic surrogacy and would move to develop a legal framework to allow the transfer of legal parentage from the birth mother in a surrogacy arrangement to a child’s intending parents in that arrangement. The proposed Queensland Model for the decri
Revised Queensland Health Indemnity Policies Queensland Health has revised and updated its existing indemnity policies for medical practitioners and employees and other persons. All Queensland Health Human Resources policies are available to be accessed via the internet. Cabinet approved the release of the Indemnity for Queensland Health Medical Practitioners HR Policy. Cabinet approved the release of the Indemnity for Queensland Health E
Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report - September 2009 The Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report, provides an overview of Queensland public hospitals including: inpatient activity, elective surgery waiting times, emergency department presentations and staffing. Hospital Activity There were 230,790 admitted patient episodes of care, a record quarter for the number of hospital admissions, and a 3.9% increase from the same quarter last year.
Qld Govt Submission to Senate Inquiry into Suicide in Australia On 10 September 2009, the Senate requested that the Community Affairs References Committee to conduct an inquiry into matters relating to the impact of suicide on the Australian community, including high risk groups such as Indigenous youth and rural communities. The Premier of Queensland was invited by the Chair of the Senate Committee to provide a written submission addressing issues relevant to
Surrogacy Bill 2009 The Surrogacy Bill 2009 (the Bill) decriminalises altruistic surrogacy; allows parties to enter into an altruistic surrogacy arrangement where a woman agrees to conceive and carry a child for another person or another person and that person’s spouse; and provides for a court to make an order for the transfer of the parentage of the child born as a result of the surrogacy arrangement. This is ac
Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Bill 2009 The Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Bill 2009 (the Bill) is to provide the National Law, hosted by Queensland, that sets out the legal framework for the new National Registration and Accreditation Scheme for Health Professions (the National Scheme). The Bill is the second stage of the National Law for the National Scheme and is consistent with the Council of Australian Governments (CO
Surrogacy Bill 2009 The draft Surrogacy Bill 2009 (the Bill) decriminalises altruistic surrogacy; allows parties to enter into an altruistic surrogacy arrangement where a woman agrees to conceive and carry a child for another person or another person and that person’s spouse; and provides for a court to make an order for the transfer of the parentage of the child born as a result of the surrogacy arrangement. This
Report on the Queensland Plan for Mental Health 2007-17 The Queensland Plan for Mental Health 2007-2017 is a whole-of-Government strategy which identifies the actions and service development needed to improve access to quality mental health care. Implementation of the Plan has involved collaboration with a range of stakeholders including mental health service providers, consumers, government departments, and non-government organisations. Full implemen
Vaccination Strategy and impact of Pandemic H1N1 2009 Since the notification to Australia by the World Health Organisation of outbreaks of a novel strain of influenza on 24 April 2009, Queensland has been impacted by the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus. The health sector has primarily coordinated response efforts to date, focusing on measures to limit the spread and public health impacts of the disease including surveillance and monitoring, border control
Queensland Government response to Chronic Disease in Queensland In April 2009, the Social Development Committee (the Committee), a select Parliamentary Committee, was directed by the Queensland Parliament to conduct an inquiry considering the impact of chronic diseases on Queensland communities and the steps that could be taken to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases in Queensland communities. The Committee tabled its report (the Report) in Parliament on
Inquiry into addressing Cannabis-Related Harm in Queensland In May 2009, the Social Development Committee was directed by the Legislative Assembly to conduct an inquiry (the Inquiry) into addressing cannabis-related harm in Queensland and report back to Parliament by 23 April 2010. The Queensland Government is greatly concerned about the impact of illicit drug use and supports whole-of-government action to address the harms of cannabis use for the Queens
Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report - June Quarter 2010 The Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report, provides an overview of Queensland public hospitals including: inpatient activity, elective surgery waiting times, emergency department presentations and staffing. The key aspects of the Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report - June quarter 2010 include the following: Hospital Activity There were 233,832 admitted patient episodes of care,
Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report - December 2009 The Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report provides an overview of Queensland public hospitals including: inpatient activity, elective surgery waiting times, emergency department presentations and staffing. Hospital Activity During the December quarter 2009, there were 228,203 admitted patient episodes of care, a 3.7% increase from the same quarter of 2008. Elective Surgery Performance
Community safety and alcohol reform In response to very high levels of alcohol related harm and violence, alcohol restrictions were rolled out in 19 discrete Indigenous communities. There was a review of the restrictions in 2008 which led to substantial reforms in alcohol management. Alcohol restrictions declared under the Liquor Act 1992 do not specify an end date. Stated government policy is that restrictions will remain in pla
Health Legislation (Health Practitioner Regulation National Law) Amd Bill 2010 The Health Legislation (Health Practitioner Regulation National Law) Amendment Bill 2010 (the Bill) provides for administrative and consequential amendments to Queensland legislation to support the implementation of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme for Health Professions (the National Scheme). The Bill is the third and final piece of the National Law for the National Scheme and i
Cost of Food and Freight in Torres Strait In 2006, the cost of a basket of healthy food in the Torres Strait was 33.5 percent higher than in major cities and 23.2 percent higher than Townsville and Cairns. This is similar to other communities more than 2000 kilometres from Brisbane, including Indigenous communities in Cape York and the Gulf. High food prices are of particular concern in the context of the Torres Strait’s poor health outc
Quarterly Public Hospitals Report - March 2010 The Quarterly Public Hospitals Performance Report, provides an overview of Queensland public hospitals including: inpatient activity, elective surgery waiting times, emergency department presentations and staffing. Hospital Activity There were 225,923 admitted patient episodes of care, a 3.8% increase from the March 2009 quarter. Elective Surgery Performance Across all categories, the median w
Measures to alleviate the cost of food and improve nutrition in the Torres Strait The relatively high cost of food (and the cost of living generally) combined with limited food choices and reduced affordability due to relatively low incomes, are major contributing factors to the incidence of chronic disease in the Torres Strait, particularly Type 2 diabetes mellitus. There is a range of interconnected supply and demand factors that adversely impact on the cost of food (and the
Forensic Disability Bill 2011 Queensland Government has previously committed to implementing recommendations 5.1 and 22 of the reports titled Promoting balance in the forensic mental health system – Final Report – Review of the Queensland Mental Health Act 2000 (Butler Report) and Challenging Behaviour and Disability – A Targeted Response (Carter Report) respectively. The implementation of these recommendations involves esta
Learning Earning Active Places strategy Around 78 percent of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Queensland live in cities and towns. ‘LEAP: Learning Earning Active Places—a strategy for improving access to education, employment, health and housing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders in urban and regional areas’ has been developed as part of the Government’s commitment to close the g
Appointment of members to Hospital and Health Boards The Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) objects is to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician engagem
Appointment of Assisting Psychiatrists to Mental Health Court The Mental Health Court is established as a superior court of record under section 381 of the Mental Health Act 2000 (the Act). The court is constituted by a Supreme Court Judge and is generally assisted at any one time by two Assisting Psychiatrists. In accordance with section 383 of the Act, the Mental Health Court has the following jurisdiction (a) deciding appeals against decisions of the M
Appointment to the Queensland Health Payroll inquiry Appointment and remuneration of a Commissioner to the Queensland Health Payroll inquiry Attorney-General and Minister for Justice In December 2012, Cabinet approved the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry into the Queensland Health payroll system, subject to Governor in Council approval. The Commission is to conduct a comprehensive review of all aspects of the procurement and implementation
Appointment to the Health Quality and Complaints Commission The Health Quality and Complaints Commission (HQCC) is constituted under the provisions of the Health Quality and Complaints Commission Act 2006 and its main objects are to provide for oversight and review of, and improvement in, the quality of health services, and independent review and management of health complaints. Section 149 of the Act provides for the appointment by the Governor in Council
Appointment to the Speech Pathologists Board of Qld The Speech Pathologists Board of Queensland is constituted under the Speech Pathologists Registration Act 2001 and its main objectives are to provide for the registration of speech pathologists, protect the public by ensuring health care is delivered by registrants in a professional, safe and competent way and to uphold the standards of practice within the profession. Queensland is currently t
Appointment of Assistant Commissioner Health Quality and Complaints Commission The Health Quality and Complaints Commission (HQCC) is constituted under the provisions of the Health Quality and Complaints Commission Act 2006 (the Act) and its main objects are to provide for oversight and review of, and improvement in, the quality of health services, and independent review and management of health complaints. Section 149 of the Act provides for the appointment by Governor in
Appointment of Deputy Chairs and members to Hospital and Health Boards The Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) objects is to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician engagem
Indemnity Arrangements for Hospital and Health Services The Council of Australian Governments’ National Health Reforms commence on 1 July 2012. From this date, statutory bodies, known as Hospital and Health Services, assume responsibility for the function of delivering hospital and other health services to Queensland on behalf of the State. Queensland Health will provide overall management of the health system. The Hospital and Health Service workforc
Amendments to the Mental Health Act 2000 The Queensland Mental Health Commission Bill 2012 establishes the first ever Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) to: Drive ongoing systemic reform towards a more integrated, evidence-based, recovery-oriented mental health and alcohol and other drugs system in Queensland; Lead coordinated action by government, non-government and private sector agencies which deliver services to people with
Appointment of a Deputy Chair and Members to the Hospital and Health Boards The Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) object is to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician engageme
Health Practitioner and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2012 On 26 March 2008, the Council of Australian Governments signed an Intergovernmental Agreement to provide for a single national registration and accreditation scheme for health professions (the National Scheme). Health professions must meet six criteria for inclusion in the National Scheme. The dental technology and speech pathology professions have twice been denied inclusion into the National Sch
Queensland Mental Health Commission Bill 2012 The Queensland Mental Health Commission Bill 2012 (Bill) establishes the first ever Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) to: drive ongoing systemic reform towards a more integrated, evidence-based, recovery-oriented mental health and alcohol and other drugs system in Queensland; lead coordinated action by government, non-government and private sector agencies which deliver services to peop
Appointments Cairns Mackay Childrens Health Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician
Response to the Qld Health Payroll System Commission of Inquiry recommendation On 13 December 2012, Executive Council appointed a Commission of Inquiry “to make a full and careful inquiry, in an open and independent manner, into the implementation of the Queensland Health payroll system. …”. The Honourable Richard Chesterman AO RFD QD opened Queensland Health Payroll System Commission of Inquiry on 1 February 2013. The Inquiry received 171 exhibits and held 36 days of heari
Response HealthCommunity Committee report Palliative and community care The Legislative Assembly referred the palliative care services and home and community care inquiry to the Health and Community Services Committee on 7 June 2012. The Committee submitted its report to the Legislative Assembly on 17 May 2013. According to the Parliament of Queensland Act 2001, the Premier or the relevant Minister must table a response to the Legislative Assembly/Clerk within three
Appointment Qld Berghofer Medical Research Institute Established under section 3 of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research Act 1945 Act (‘the Act’) for the purpose of research into any branch or branches of medical science, the Director of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (more commonly known as the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute) is responsible for the control and management of research work into any branch or branches
Appointment Health Ombudsman The statutory office of Health Ombudsman is established under the Health Ombudsman Act 2013. The Health Ombudsman’s roles include undertaking investigations, inquiries and other relevant action and reporting on systemic issues relating to health service complaints. The Health Ombudsman will also report to the Minister for Health and the parliamentary committee on the administration of the hea
Appointments Ministerial Health Infrastructure Advisory Council The establishment of the Ministerial Health Infrastructure Advisory Council (MHIAC) is a commitment of the Blueprint for better care in Queensland which outlines structural and cultural improvements to establish Queensland as the leader in Australian healthcare. The Blueprint, jointly issued by the Premier and Minister for Health in February 2013, recognises Queensland Health has previously had a
Appointments Qld Board of Medical Board of Australia The Queensland Board of the Medical Board of Australia (QBMBA) is established under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009 (‘the Act’). Its functions include making individual registration and notification decisions, based on national policies and standards on behalf of the Medical Board of Australia. Sections 36(5) and (6) of the Act stipulates that at least half, but no mo
Response Land Protection Legislation Flying fox Control Bill 2012 The Member for Dalrymple, Mr Shane Knuth MP, introduced the Land Protection Legislation (Flying-fox Control) Amendment Bill 2012 as a Private Member’s Bill on 21 June 2012. The Bill amends the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 and the Nature Conservation Act 1992 to control the health risks posed by flying-foxes. The policy intent of these amendments is to empower a landow
Appointment to the Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician
Appointment to the Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal is established under the Mental Health Act 2000. Its primary role is to provide independent review of persons subject to involuntary detention and treatment under the Act. The Tribunal conducts hearings for involuntary, including forensic, patients throughout Queensland. Sections 440(2) and 441(1) of the Act provide that members are appointed by the Governor in
Appointment to the Qld Institute of Medical Research The Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) is established under the Queensland Institute of Medical Research Act 1945 and its main objective is to conduct research into any branch or branches of medicine. The QIMR Council consists of at least seven, but no more than 11, members appointed by the Governor in Council. In recommending persons to be appointed as members of the Council, the M
Health Ombudsman Bill 2013 The Health Ombudsman Bill 2013 aims to: protect the health and safety of the public; promote high standards of practice and service delivery by health service providers; and maintain public confidence in the State’s health service complaints management system. To achieve these aims, the Health Ombudsman Bill 2013 will provide for the statutory appointment of a Health Ombudsman to: receive health s
Appointment of Commissioner to Queensland Mental Health Commission The Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) will be established as an independent statutory body by the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 . The QMHC will provide strategic leadership for systemic reform and development to improve the services for Queenslander’s living with, or vulnerable to mental illness or substance misuse issues. This will be achieved through actions aimed at
Appointment of members to the Hospital and Health Boards The Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) objects are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician engage
Appointments HIV Foundation Queensland On 31 October 2013, the Governor in Council approved the establishment of the HIV Foundation Queensland (HIVFQ) via regulation as an independent body corporate under the Hospitals Foundations Act 1982, commencing 1 December 2013. The HIVFQ will assume the advisory role of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS (MAC), which was established on 1 July 2012, and will also undertake additional
Appointment Chairperson Mental Health and Drug Advisory Council Established under section 37 of the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (‘the Act), the functions of the Queensland Mental Health Advisory Council (the Council) are to provide advice to the Queensland Mental Health Commission on mental health or substance misuse issues and to make recommendations to the Commission in relation to its functions. The Council will also act as champion for con
Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 The Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 (the Bill) amends various Health portfolio Acts to support the policy initiatives of the Government, and to improve the effective operation of the relevant Acts. Key policy initiatives being given effect by the Bill include: amendment of the Public Health Act 2005 will establish the maternal death statistics collection to increase awareness of maternal de
Police and Community Safety final report In November 2012, the Queensland Government announced a review of the police and community safety portfolio to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and accessibility to front line services and to recommend ways to eliminate duplication and waste. Former Australian Federal Police Commissioner, Mick Keelty, was appointed review the review team. The final report of the Police and Co
Review of Gene Technology and government response The Gene Technology Act 2001 (the Queensland Act) is Queensland’s component of the regulatory scheme for gene technology in Australia. The object of the Queensland Act is to protect the health and safety of people, and to protect the environment, by identifying risks posed by or as a result of gene technology, and by managing the risks by regulating certain dealings with genetically modified organ
Appointments to Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal is established under the Mental Health Act 2000. Its primary role is to provide independent review of persons subject to involuntary detention and treatment under the Act. The Tribunal conducts hearings for involuntary, including forensic, patients throughout Queensland. Hearing Panels are composed of three categories of members: legal; psychiatrist; and other p
Mental Health Court - Appointment of Assisting Psychiatrists The primary function of the Mental Health Court (the Court) is to determine soundness of mind and fitness for trial of persons referred to the Court whom are facing criminal proceedings. This ensures mentally ill and intellectually disabled offenders are moved from the criminal justice system into the mental health system. The Court determines the mental condition of persons charged with indictabl
Appointments to Mental Health and Drug Advisory Council Established under section 37 of the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (‘the Act’), the functions of the Queensland Mental Health Advisory Council (the Council) are to provide advice to the Queensland Mental Health Commission on mental health or substance misuse issues and to make recommendations to the Commission in relation to its functions. The Council will also act as champion for co
Response to Private Members Bill Public Health (Exclusion of Unvaccinated Children from Child Care) Amendment Bill On 23 May 2013, Mrs Jo-Ann Miller MP, Member for Bundamba, introduced the Private Member’s Bill, Public Health (Exclusion of Unvaccinated Children from Child Care) Amendment Bill 2013 (the Bill). The object of this Bill is to give a person in charge of an education and care service or child care service the ability to refuse that a child who is not fully immunised be enrolled in the child care fac
Appointments to Qld Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: (a) strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician engagemen
Review of the Mental Health Act 2000 On 28 June 2013, the Minister for Health announced a review of the Mental Health Act 2000 to better support mental health strategies and community needs. An initial round of public consultation was undertaken in July-August 2013 to identify areas for improvements in the Act. Based on stakeholder feedback, and analysis and research undertaken for the review, it has been concluded that the Act is
Queensland Government Submission to the Senate Select Committee on Health On 25 June 2014, the Senate established the Select Committee on Health to inquire into and report on health policy, administration and expenditure and provide a final report to the Senate on 20 June 2016, with submissions invited by 19 September 2014. The establishment of the committee follows the 2014-15 Commonwealth budget, announced on 13 May 2014, which proposed a range of measures that reduce
Appointments to health panels of assessors In accordance with the Health Ombudsman Act 2013, panels of assessors contribute to upholding professional standards by providing expert advice in response to questions of fact from judicial members who constitute the independent Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). QCAT deals with serious disciplinary matters which, if substantiated, may result in the cancellation or suspension of
Appointment of members to Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Commission of Inquiry into the closure of the Barrett Adolescent Centre The Queensland Government publicly committed to establish a Commission of Inquiry into the decisions and circumstances surrounding the closure of the Barrett Adolescent Centre at Wacol (BAC). The Commission of Inquiry will make full and careful inquiry into the: decision to close the BAC and cease the on-site integrated education program delivered by the BAC Special School; alternatives considere
Public Health Childcare Vaccination Amendment Bill 2015 The Public Health (Childcare Vaccination) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2015 amends the Public Health Act 2005 to give the person in charge of an education and care service, approved under the Education and Care Services National Law (Queensland) or the Education and Care Services Act 2013, the discretion to refuse enrolment and/or attendance of an unvaccinated child, unless the child: has
Participation in the national eHealth agenda Progressing a nationally coordinated approach to eHealth provides the national standards, specifications and infrastructure needed to be able to connect information systems across health settings (general practitioners, specialists, hospitals), and ensure the seamless availability of key health information. Continuing a nationally coordinated effort (as opposed to each state and territory impleme
Appointment of Hospital and Health Board members The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician en
Improving mental health outcomes for young people in North Queensland and review of fatal mental health events Rebuilding intensive mental healthcare for young people in North Queensland The Government’s election commitment Rebuilding intensive mental healthcare for young people, proposes an expansion of services in Townsville for young people with serious mental health issues and includes the following components: establish youth residential rehabilitation facilities for up to eight young people; and est
Response to Report on Auditor General Reports on Private practice arrangements in Qld hospitals In late 2012, the Crime and Misconduct Commission reported significant findings to Government in relation to the operation of Right of Private Practice (RoPP) arrangements in Queensland Health. The report highlighted that the scheme was not managed effectively. In November 2012, the Queensland Audit Office (QAO) commenced an audit into the RoPP arrangements in Queensland Health to determine wheth
Queensland Alcohol and Other Drugs Action Plan 2015-17 Queenslanders consume alcohol at risky levels, smoke tobacco daily and use other drugs including illegal drugs at levels which exceed national rates. While not everyone who uses these drugs will become dependent, many experience harms which can have a significant impact on their mental and physical health and their ability to contribute to the community. In Queensland drug use accounts for an es
Appointment to the Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2000 for the purposes of reviewing the involuntary status of persons with mental illnesses. The Tribunal consists of a full time President and other members, including psychiatrists, community members, psychosurgeons, lawyers and other persons with relevant qualifications and/or experience. Under section 44
Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2015 The Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2015 (the Bill) amends various Health portfolio Acts to support the implementation of policy initiatives to protect and improve the health of Queenslanders, and to improve operation of the relevant Acts. In particular, the Bill amends: the Food Act 2006 to establish a statewide menu labelling scheme and to enable the chief executive of Queensland Health to aut
Hospital and Health Boards (Safe Nurse and Midwife to Patient Ratios) Amendment Bill 2015 The purpose of the Hospital and Health Boards (Safe Nurse-to-Patient and Midwife-to-Patient Ratios) Amendment Bill 2015 (the Bill) is to provide a legislative framework to enable nurse-to-patient and midwife-to-patient ratios and workload provisions to be mandated in public sector health service facilities. The Bill implements the Government’s commitment in the Nursing Guarantee policy to legislat
Tobacco and Other Smoking Products (Smoke Free Places) Amendment Bill 2015 The Tobacco and Other Smoking Products (Smoke-Free Places) Amendment Bill 2015 amends the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 to: create more smoke-free public places across Queensland prohibit the sale of smoking products from temporary retail outlets make minor and technical amendments to clarify or strengthen Queensland’s tobacco laws. The objective of the Bill is to strengthen existing
Appointment Childrens Health Queensland Hospital and Health Board The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Appointment Townsville Hospital and Health Board The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Report on investigation into asbestos related health concerns from former factories In October 2014, the former Government announced an investigation of asbestos-related health concerns in relation to the operation of asbestos factories at Gaythorne and Newstead in Queensland. The Wunderlich factory, located at 51 Prospect Road, Gaythorne, opened in October 1936 for the manufacture of asbestos cement. The James Hardie factory, located at the corner of Longland Street and Breakfas
Improved health services at Wynnum Metro South Hospital and Health Service has been working with the Department of Health to develop a plan in respect to the provision of health services in Wynnum. The plan involves the following key elements: a new Wynnum Integrated Health Care Centre – which provides oral health services, breast screening services, allied health as well as addiction and mental health services, new specialist out
Appointment Central Queensland Hospital and Health Board The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland, having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician en
Appointment of assisting psychiatrists to Mental Health Court Established under section 381 of the Mental Health Act 2000, the Mental Health Court: determines the mental condition of persons charged with indictable offences decides on appeals against decisions made by the Mental Health Review Tribunal considers other matters relating to the detention of patients and applications for changing forensic orders. It also has special powers of inquiry into the
Appointment to Council of Queensland Institute of Medical Research The Queensland Institute of Medical Research is established under section 3 of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research Act 1945 Act (‘the Act’) for the purpose of research into any branch or branches of medical science. Section 4 of the Act provides that Membership of the Council consists of at least seven, but not more than 11, members appointed by the Governor in Council. Section 5B of the
Addressing Crystal Methamphetamine (Ice) in Queensland The upsurge in the use of ice in Australia has had a chaotic effect on many individuals, families and communities and Queensland has not been exempt from this growing national and international problem. While Queensland will continue to work collaboratively with all other Australian Governments through the National Ice Taskforce to develop a National Ice Action Strategy, it is important that Quee
Mental Health Bill 2015 A Draft Mental Health Bill was released for a two-month consultation period to 26 June 2015. An extensive range of consultation workshops and meetings were held during the consultation period. Feedback provided during consultation indicated strong support for the Bill from most stakeholders. Mental health consumers and their representative groups were particularly supportive of the provisions of t
Early Action - Queensland Mental Health Promotion Prevention and Early Intervention Action Plan 2015-2017 The Queensland Government is committed to improving the mental health and wellbeing of Queenslanders and to reducing the incidence, severity and duration of mental illness and mental health problems. Good mental health and wellbeing affects our ability to cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to the community. However many people experience poor mental health wit
Establishment of Radiation Oncology Service at Rockhampton Regional Cancer Centre Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service has a multidisciplinary team including public medical oncologists, haematologists, nurses, allied health staff, pharmacists, and technical staff to support a best practice radiation oncology service, but does not have the necessary specialised workforce to deliver the radiation oncology service itself. Radiation oncology service at Rockhampton would p
Health and Ambulance Services Committee Report No 2 Inquiry into personal health promotion interventions The Inquiry into personal health promotion interventions using telephone and web-based technologies, Report No. 2, details the findings of the Health and Ambulance Services Committee in relation to the evidence for the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of health coaching interventions, specifically those which relate to increasing physical activity, improving nutrition and reducing weight. The
Queensland Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2015-2017 The Queensland Government is committed to reducing suicide and its impact on Queenslanders. In 2014, an estimated 627 Queenslanders died by suicide. While the suicide rate in Queensland has been relatively stable at 13.3 per 100,000, it continues to exceed the national average of 10.8 per 100,000 and is higher than that experienced in most other States and Territories. For every suicide an estima
Appointments to Queensland Mental Health and Drug Advisory Council Established under the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (the Act), the functions of the Council are to provide advice to the Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) on mental health or substance misuse issues and to make recommendations to the QMHC in relation to its functions. The Queensland Mental Health and Drug Advisory Council consists of the number of persons considered appropr
Appointments to Radiation Advisory Council The functions of the Radiation Advisory Council (RAC) are to examine, and make recommendations to the Minister, about the operation and application of the Radiation Safety Act 1999 (the Act) and other issues relating to radiation safety standards. The RAC may also conduct research into radiation practices, including the transportation of radioactive materials, within Queensland. The RAC consists o
My Health Queensland Future - Advancing Health 2026 A vision and 10 year strategy for the health system in Queensland has been developed, “My Health, Queensland’s Future: Advancing Health 2026” (Advancing Health 2026), that recognises that to continue to improve health outcomes it is imperative that the entire health system across all sectors works together with a shared vision for the future healthcare of Queenslanders. Advancing Health 2026 outli
National Injury Insurance Scheme (Queensland) Bill 2016 The establishment of a National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS) alongside the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was recommended by the Productivity Commission in its 2011 Inquiry Report, Disability Care and Support. The Productivity Commission proposed that a NIIS would cover the lifetime (i.e. until death) care and support needs of catastrophically injured people across four main stream
Connecting Care to Recovery - Plan for Queensland State-funded Mental Health Alcohol and other Drug Services 2016-21 Connecting Care to Recovery - A Plan for Queensland’s State Funded Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Services 2016-2021 (the Plan) provides an overarching framework to link significant new initiatives and ensure their coordination and integration within an ongoing program of mental health, alcohol and other drug reforms for the State. The Plan aligns with the directions articulated in My healt
Farm Business Debt Mediation Bill 2016 The Government is committed to assisting rural producers and communities across the State that are affected by debt and unprecedented drought conditions. With 83.92% of the State drought-declared, the additional $77.9 million in funding over five years for the Rural Assistance and Drought Package provided in the 2016-17 Budget comes at a crucial time for rural and regional Queensland. The $36 mill
Gene Technology Queensland Bill 2016 Gene technology activities in Australia are regulated through an integrated national legislative scheme which aims to protect the health and safety of people and the environment by identifying and managing risks. State, Territory and Commonwealth legislation are all required to achieve a nationally consistent scheme to provide full regulatory coverage for gene technology. Currently, Queensland’s g
Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social and Emotional Wellbeing Action Plan 2016-18 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders are resilient with cultures and customs continuing to be a source of strength and pride and the foundation for good social and emotional wellbeing. However there is a significant gap in mental health and life outcomes with Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders being more likely to: experience psychological distress; be hospitalised for m
Government Response - Health and Ambulance Services Committee Report - Mental Health and Mental Health Recovery Model Bills 2015 The Health and Ambulance Services Committee released a Report on the Mental Health Bill 2015 and the Mental Health (Recovery Model) Bill 2015. The Committee’s Report makes 15 recommendations. The Committee was unable to make a recommendation on whether either Bill should be passed, with Government members supporting the Mental Health Bill 2015 and Opposition members supporting the Private Member’s
Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016 The purpose of the Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2015 is to provide a regulatory framework to facilitate treatment with medicinal cannabis, while also preventing unauthorised use of such products. Under this proposed regulatory framework, the supply chain of medicinal cannabis will be extremely tight. A medical practitioner who believes their patient may benefit from treatment with medi
Government Response - Health Legislation Waiting List Integrity Amendment Bill 2015 On 19 May 2015, the Queensland Member for Caloundra, Mark McArdle, introduced the Health Legislation (Waiting List Integrity) Amendment Bill 2015 (the Bill), proposing amendments to the Health Ombudsman Act 2013 and the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011, to provide for the auditing and reporting of data relating to waiting times for patients of Hospital and Health Services. The Health and Ambul
Government response to Inquiry into fire fighting foam contamination Fire-fighting foam containing the chemicals perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was used in fire-fighting and fire-fighting training from the 1970s to the early-mid 2000s. Use of the foams has occurred at sites such as civil airports, military air bases, large fuel storage terminals and refineries, and ports. A plume of groundwater contaminated with PFOS and PFOA, a
Government response to contamination caused by perfluorinated aqueous fire-fighting foams Fire-fighting foam containing the chemicals perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was used in fire-fighting and fire-fighting training from the 1970s to the early-mid 2000s. Use of the foams has occurred at various Australian sites including civil airports, military air bases, large fuel storage terminals and refineries, and ports. A plume of groundwater contaminated
Queensland Rural and Remote Mental Health and Wellbeing Action Plan 2016-18 Rural and remote Queensland is home to just over 1.65 million Queenslanders from diverse backgrounds. While some communities in rural and remote areas are thriving and growing, others are facing significant adversity and uncertainty and are at risk of experiencing lower levels of wellbeing. This contributes to higher suicide rates and a higher proportion using alcohol and other drugs. Lower wellb
Response to Inquiry into tobacco licensing in Queensland - Committee Report No.19 In October 2015, the Legislative Assembly referred an inquiry into licensing arrangements in Queensland to the Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic Violence Prevention Committee. As part of its inquiry, the Committee examined and considered the history of tobacco control and usage, types of tobacco licensing schemes, arrangements in other jurisdictions and international research.
Appointments to Safe Food Production QLD Board Safe Food Production QLD (Safe Food) is a statutory authority established under the Food Production (Safety) Act 2000. Safe Food is required to develop, implement and administer food safety schemes, based on national standards, for a range of primary produce. Food safety schemes for the seafood, meat, dairy, egg and horticulture (seed sprouts) sectors have been implemented. Safe Food has a board
Legislation (Declaration) Amendment Bill 2016 The Legislation (Declaration) Amendment Bill 2016 validates the Mental Health Act 2016 and the Racing Integrity Act 2016 and, in particular, validates the assent given to both Acts. The Bill is required because the Acts as assented to differ from the Acts as passed by the Legislative Assembly. The difference is the result of administrative errors made in the Acts presented for assent. Cabinet app
Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 The Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 (the Bill) makes legislative amendments to a range of health portfolio Acts to support the implementation of policy initiatives to protect and improve the health of Queenslanders, and to improve the operation of the Acts. The Bill amends: the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 to facilitate general practitioners having access to the Queensland
Queensland an age friendly community strategic direction statement The proposed seniors strategy follows the ‘age-friendly community’ model developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and is comprised of eight domains: social participation; transportation; respect and social inclusion; civic participation and employment; communication and information; community support and health services; housing; and outdoor spaces and buildings. Queensland: an age-friend
Public Health (Water Risk Management) Amendment Bill 2016 The Bill amends the Public Health Act 2005 to implement a legislative framework that: improves the management and control of health risks associated with the supply and use of water in hospitals and residential aged care facilities, in particular the health risks associated with Legionella bacteria; and provides greater transparency of water testing activities being undertaken by facilities. The B
Appointments to Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016 The purpose of the Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016 is to provide a regulatory framework to facilitate treatment with medicinal cannabis, while also preventing unauthorised use of such products. The Bill provides two pathways for a patient to receive treatment with medicinal cannabis: Under the single-patient prescriber pathway, a medical practitioner who believes their patient may be
Draft Queensland Sexual Health Strategy 2016-2021 The Queensland Government is developing a Queensland Sexual Health Strategy 2016-2021 (Sexual Health Strategy), which aims to support healthy and safe sexual experiences based on respect and consent, and to provide Queenslanders with the knowledge required to maintain optimal sexual and reproductive health. A key action of the Sexual Health Strategy is to improve sexual health outcomes for priori
Mental Health Amendment Bill 2016 The Mental Health Amendment Bill 2016 (the Bill) amends the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Mental Health Act) and the Public Health Act 2005 (the Public Health Act) to support implementation of the Mental Health Act. The Bill amends the Mental Health Act to clarify that oral or written statements made by a person: during an assessment regarding unsoundness of mind or fitness for trial are not admiss
Implementation plan for Government response to Barrett Adolescent Centre Commission of Inquiry Report The Barrett Adolescent Centre Commission of Inquiry Report and the Queensland Government’s Response were released on 18 July 2016. The Government response accepted all six recommendations of the Barrett Adolescent Centre Commission of Inquiry Report in principle.  Also on 18 July 2016, Government publicly committed to developing a detailed plan for implementation of the Queensland Government Res
Queensland sentinel events review into homicide and public sector mental health services In March 2015, the Queensland Government approved the commencement of a state-wide clinical review of sentinel events involving individuals with a mental illness, to be managed by Queensland Health (the Sentinel Events Review). An independent review committee was appointed to conduct the clinical review pursuant to the provisions of Part 6, Division 3, of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011.
Queensland Mental Health Commission effectiveness review - final report The Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) was established on 1 July 2013 under the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (the Act). The main object of the QMHC is to drive ongoing reform towards a more integrated, evidence-based, recovery-oriented mental health and substance misuse system. Pursuant to section 55 of the Act, in April 2016 the Director-General of Queensland Health reques
Amendments to the Mental Health Amendment Bill 2016 The Mental Health Amendment Bill 2016 (the Bill) amends the Mental Health Act 2016. The Bill was introduced into the Legislative Assembly on 30 November 2016. The Government identified further provisions for inclusion in the Mental Health Act 2016 to address matters relating to the Mental Health Review Tribunal. Specifically, the proposed amendments to the Bill will amend the Mental Health Act 20
Appointments to Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2000 (the Act). Its primary role is to provide independent review of persons subject to involuntary detention and treatment under the Act. The Tribunal conducts hearings for involuntary, including forensic, patients throughout Queensland. Hearing panels are composed of three categories of members: legal;
Appointment of Assisting Psychiatrists to Mental Health Court Established under the Mental Health Act 2000, the Mental Health Court determines the mental condition of persons charged with indictable offences, decides on appeals against decisions made by the Mental Health Review Tribunal and considers other matters relating to the detention of patients and applications for changing forensic orders. It also has special powers of inquiry into the lawfulness of
Responding to Crystal Methamphetamine in Queensland Ice is having a significant adverse impact across many Queensland communities. The increasing prevalence of the drug’s use, the disproportionate levels of harm it can cause, as well as the involvement of organised crime in its production, supply and distribution means that a coordinated whole of government response is needed to tackle this growing problem. Action on Ice is the Queensland Governmen
Implementation of Connecting Care to Recovery 2016-2021 – A Plan for Queensland State Funded Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drug Services In October 2016, the Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services announced Connecting Care to Recovery 2016-2021 – A Plan for Queensland’s State Funded Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drug Services.   The Department of Health is leading the implementation of Connecting Care to Recovery 2016-2021 and has to date undertaken a number of activities to progress these requirements, includin
Implementation of Queensland Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Strategic Plan 2014-19 The Queensland Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Strategic Plan 2014-2019 (the Strategic Plan) was developed by the Queensland Mental Health Commission (the Commission) as required by the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (the Act). It aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders. The Act requires the Commission, as an independent statutory authority, to monitor an
Discussion Paper on expanding patient safety and quality reporting across Queenslands health system In June 2017, the Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services announced the intention to consult with the community and key stakeholders about expanding the public reporting of patient safety in Queensland. . Evidence from both Australia and international jurisdictions continues to confirm that the safest hospitals which provide the highest quality of care to patients are those that ha
Report on efficacy and utilisation of Townsville youth residential rehabilitation units and family accommodation On 21 April 2015, Government announced funding of $11.8 million (over four years) to establish two, four bed youth residential and rehabilitation units (YRRUs) and family accommodation in Townsville. The two YRRUs opened in January and March 2016 to provide clinical and psychosocial support to a young person aged 16-21 years with severe, complex and persistent mental illness medium to long term
Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017 The National Registration and Accreditation Scheme for Health Professions (the National Scheme) was implemented through the adoption of the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (National Law) by all states and territories in 2009 and 2010. The National Law regulates the following 14 health professions: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practice, Chinese medicine, chiropractic, de
Update on Closing the Gap in health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders Queensland continues to make progress in improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders: Life expectancy is improving for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders. Mortality rates continue to decrease for Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children; Fewer older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders are dying from cardiova
Public Health (Infection Control) Amendment Bill 2017 The Public Health (Infection Control) Amendment Bill 2017 (the Bill) responds to a recent incident involving unsafe infection control practices at a Brisbane dental clinic. Those practices, which included inadequate staff training and sterilisation procedures, were found to be placing staff and patients at risk of coming into contact with infectious, blood-borne diseases, and breached the mandator
Government response to Committee Report No 31 Inquiry into performance of Health Ombudsman functions In June 2016 the Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee (the Committee) resolved to conduct an inquiry into the performance of the Health Ombudsman’s functions pursuant to section 179 of the Health Ombudsman Act 2013. The Committee tabled its report in December 2016. The Committee noted significant concerns that the Office of the Health Ombud
Appointments to Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Appointment of the Queensland Mental Health Commissioner The Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) is constituted under the provisions of the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (the Act) and its main object is to develop a whole-of-government strategy to address systemic mental health, alcohol and other drugs issues. This includes coordinating an integrated approach to innovation, knowledge sharing, and evidenced-based policy and practic
Building and Construction Legislation (Non-conforming Building Products - Chain of Responsibility and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 2017 Non-conforming building products (NCBPs) pose a significant risk to the health and safety of all Queenslanders. The use of NCBPs threatens the integrity of a building, putting all users of the building, as well as people on building sites potentially at risk. Incorporating NCBPs in a building can also impose significant costs on owners to rectify damages or undertake remedial action. The Queenslan
Healthy Futures Commission Queensland Bill 2017 The Healthy Futures Commission Queensland Bill 2017 provides the legislative framework for the establishment and operation of the Healthy Futures Commission Queensland (the Commission). The overarching purpose of the Commission is to support the capacity of children and families to adopt a healthy lifestyle, with particular focus on reducing health inequity. In doing so, the Commission will focus
Queensland Advancing Health Research 2026 Health and medical research plays a central role in generating innovative, more effective and more efficient (better value) ways to prevent, diagnose and treat disease. Queensland Advancing Health Research 2026 has been developed as Queensland Health’s Strategy for guiding research investment decisions and actions to support the type of health and medical research that will ultimately lead to bett
Appointment of Health Ombudsman The Health Ombudsman is established under the provisions of the Health Ombudsman Act 2013 (the Act). Pursuant to section 25 of the Act, the Health Ombudsman’s role includes undertaking investigations, inquiries and other relevant action and reporting on systemic issues relating to health service complaints. The Health Ombudsman reports to the Minister for Health and the Health, Communities, Disab
Delivery of Government response to Report of Barrett Adolescent Centre Commission of Inquiry The Barrett Adolescent Centre (BAC) was Queensland’s only long-term residential mental health facility for adolescents at risk of suicide. Following the closure of the BAC in January 2014, three former patients died by suspected suicide, which led to widespread community concern about the processes and supports offered to patients around the closure. The Queensland Government established a Commiss
Reconciliation Plan for children who as wards of the State were placed in adult mental health facilities During the 1950s through to the 1980s, some Queensland children in the care of the State, who did not have an identified mental illness, were placed in adult mental health institutions. In 2010, the Queensland Government apologised to those who, as children in the care of the State of Queensland, suffered in any way while resident in an adult mental health facility. In 2016, Queensland Health beg
Queensland submission to Commonwealth Government public consultation on funding for private patients in public hospitals There has been an upward trend in the number of private patients being treated in public hospitals. On 19 August 2017, the Commonwealth Department of Health released a public consultation paper entitled ‘Options to reduce pressure on private health insurance premiums by addressing the growth of private patients in public hospitals’. The consultation paper seeks public feedback on reducing pressure
Our Future State - Advancing Queensland Priorities Our Future State: Advancing Queensland’s Priorities was developed to build on the Government’s commitments and to harness a whole-of-Government effort to deliver for Queensland. There are six outcome priorities for the Queensland community: Create jobs in a strong economy Give all our children a great start Keep Queenslanders healthy Keep communities safe Protect the Great Barrier Reef Be a res
Appointments to Mental Health Court Established under section 637 of the Mental Health Act 2016, the Mental Health Court: determines the mental condition of persons charged with indictable offences; decides on appeals against decisions made by the Mental Health Review Tribunal; and considers other matters relating to the detention of patients and applications for changing forensic orders. The Mental Health Court also has special
Appointments to Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). Its primary role is to provide independent review of persons subject to involuntary detention and treatment under the Act. The Tribunal consists of a President, Deputy President and other members located across Queensland, comprised of psychiatrists, lawyers and other persons with relevant q
Appointments to Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: strengthening local decision-making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Appointment of Health Ombudsman The Health Ombudsman is established under the provisions of the Health Ombudsman Act 2013 (the Act). The Health Ombudsman reports to the Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services and the Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Committee of the Queensland Parliament on the administration of the health service complaints management system. Pursuant to
Implementation of Our Future State - Advancing Queensland’s Priorities In June 2018, the Queensland Government released Our Future State: Advancing Queensland’s Priorities, which are the Queensland Government’s Statement of Objectives for the Community in accordance with the Financial Accountability Act 2009. There are six outcomes for the Queensland community: Create jobs in a strong economy Give all our children a great start Keep Queenslanders health Keep communit
Appointment of members to panels of assessors In accordance with the Health Ombudsman Act 2013, panels of assessors contribute to upholding professional standards by providing expert advice in response to questions of fact from judicial members who constitute the independent Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). QCAT deals with serious disciplinary matters which, if substantiated, may result in the cancellation or suspension of
Appointments to Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) was established under the former Mental Health Act 2000 and is continued under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). Its primary role is to provide independent review of persons subject to involuntary detention and treatment under the Act. The Tribunal conducts hearings for involuntary, including forensic, patients throughout Queensland. Hearing p
Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 The Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 amends Health and other portfolio legislation to give effect to key policies and improve the operation of relevant Acts. The Bill gives effect to recommendations of the Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis Select Committee of the Queensland Parliament by establishing a notifiable dust lung disease register. The Bill amends the Public Health Act 2005 to
Appointment of assisting clinicians to the Mental Health Court Established under the Mental Health Act 2016, the Mental Health Court is constituted by a Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland, assisted in relation to psychiatric and medical matters by one or two assisting clinicians to enable mentally ill and intellectually disabled offenders to be moved from the criminal justice system into the mental health system. An assisting clinician may be a psychiat
Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 Queensland is the host jurisdiction for the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (National Law), under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009 (Qld). The National Law establishes 15 National Boards that regulate 16 nationally registered health professions. It also establishes the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, which is the administrative arm of the Natio
Terms of Reference for a Queensland Parliamentary Inquiry into Aged and End-of-Life Care On 2 September 2018, the Premier and Minister for Trade announced a Parliamentary Inquiry into issues to do with aged and end-of-life care, including aged care, palliative care and dying with dignity. There is a growing body of evidence that the current aged care system is resulting in negative outcomes for older Queenslanders, their families and carers, as well as State and Territory health syste
Shifting Minds - Queensland Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Strategic Plan 2018-2023 Mental illness, problematic alcohol and other drugs use, and suicide have substantial and far reaching impacts for individuals, families, communities and governments. The Queensland Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Strategic Plan 2018-2023 (the Strategic Plan) is the mechanism by which the Queensland Government demonstrates its commitment to improving the mental health and wellbeing of all Q
Queensland Government ongoing approach to Per- and polyfluroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination Fire-fighting foam containing the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) chemicals perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was used in fire-fighting and fire-fighting training from the 1970s to the early-mid 2000s. Use of the foams has occurred at various Australian sites including civil airports, military air bases, large fuel storage terminals and refineries and p
Coal Mining Safety and Health (Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis) Amendment Regulation 2018 Following the re-identification of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) in 2015, the Queensland Government has been actioning a response which encompasses dust exposure, health screening and support for workers with the disease. This has included the implementation of recommendations from both the independent review conducted by Monash University in collaboration with the University of Illinois at C
Response to Parliamentary Committee Inquiry into establishment of a pharmacy council In October 2018, the Queensland Parliament Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee tabled its Report Number 12: Inquiry into the establishment of a pharmacy council and transfer of pharmacy ownership in Queensland. The Report found that there is no public interest case for establishing a separate state authority, such as a pharmacy council, in
Appointment to Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). Its primary role is to provide independent review of persons subject to involuntary detention and treatment under the Act. The Tribunal consists of a President, Deputy President and other members located across Queensland, comprised of psychiatrists, lawyers and other persons with relevant q
Health and Wellbeing Queensland Bill 2019 The Health and Wellbeing Queensland Bill 2019 aims to: improve the health and wellbeing of the Queensland population; reduce the burden of chronic disease through targeting risk factors for those diseases; and reduce health inequity in Queensland communities. To achieve these aims, the Health and Wellbeing Queensland Bill 2019 would establish a health promotion agency, Health and Wellbeing Queensl
Queensland Government 12 month progress report - impementation of Action on Ice The use of crystal methamphetamine (ice) in Queensland has led to increased harms to individuals, their families and the broader community including drug dependence, violence and injury, mental and physical health issues and negative impacts on employment and relationships. Ice misuse continues to place a burden on frontline services, law enforcement and the health system. On 10 February 2018, th
Update on Economic Conditions and Key Achievements in Sunshine Coast Region The economy of the Sunshine Coast region is supported by health care and social services, construction, retail services, education and tourism. To support economic growth across the Sunshine Coast region, the Queensland Government is leading or helping facilitate progress on projects that include upgrades to road infrastructure, telecommunications infrastructure, schools, health services, and init
Appointments to Hospital and Health Boards The objects of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act) are to establish a public sector health system that delivers high quality hospital and other health services to persons in Queensland having regard to the principles and objectives of the national health system by: Strengthening local decision making and accountability, local consumer and community engagement, and local clinician eng
Appointments to paramedics panel of assessors In accordance with the Health Ombudsman Act 2013, panels of assessors contribute to upholding professional standards by providing expert advice in response to questions of fact from judicial members who constitute the independent Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). QCAT deals with serious disciplinary matters which, if substantiated, may result in the cancellation or suspension of
Appointments to Board of Health and Wellbeing Queensland Health and Wellbeing Queensland is a new entity established by the Health and Wellbeing Queensland Act 2019 to address long-term and chronic health issues across Queensland and improve the health and wellbeing of the Queensland population. Health and Wellbeing Queensland is governed by a board of at least two, but not more than ten people, one of whom must be the Chief Executive of a government de
Every Life - Queensland Suicide Prevention Plan 2019-2029 More than 800 Queenslanders lost their lives to suicide in 2017. It is estimated that for every suicide death there are suicide attempts. Suicide rates have been increasing in Queensland over the past decade. Suicide and suicide attempts have a significant impact across the community, affecting families, friends, colleagues and service providers, with an estimated 135 people affected by each suici
Health Transparency Bill 2019 The Health Transparency Bill 2019 (Bill) has three main components: establishes a legislative framework for obtaining information about public and private hospitals and residential aged care facilities (RACFs) for publication on a website; amends the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 to introduce a minimum nurse and support worker skill mix ratio and minimum average daily resident care hours in
Termination of Pregnancy Bill 2018 The Termination of Pregnancy Bill 2018 (the Bill) provides certainty and clarity for women, health practitioners and the community about the circumstances in which a termination is lawfully permitted. It also includes measures to ensure reasonable and safe access to termination services. The Bill is based on the recommendations and draft legislation in the Queensland Law Reform Commission report
Appointment of Director of Forensic Disability The Forensic Disability Act 2011 (the Act) provides that there is to be a Director of Forensic Disability. The Director has an independent statutory oversight role to ensure the protection of the rights of forensic disability clients, and that the detention, assessment, care and support, and protection of clients comply with the Act. Under section 85 of the Act, the Director is appointed by the G
Appointment of Public Guardian Section 9 of the Public Guardian Act 2014 (the Act) provides that there must be a Public Guardian. Section 10 of the Act provides that the Public Guardian’s role: in relation to adults who have impaired capacity for a matter is to protect their rights and interests; and in relation to relevant children and children staying at a visitable site is to protect their rights and interests. Section 94 o
Appointments to Mental Health Court Established under the Mental Health Act 2016, the Mental Health Court is constituted by a Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland, assisted in relation to psychiatric and intellectual disability matters by one or two assisting clinicians to enable mentally ill and intellectually disabled offenders to be moved from the criminal justice system into the mental health system. An assisting clinician m
Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2019 The Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2019 (the Bill) amends: the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 to implement recommendations of the expert panel appointed to advise on Queensland Health’s governance framework by: moving Queensland’s public sector health services to a networked governance model; and removing institutional barriers to public sector health services and implement important chang
Appointments Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) was established under the former Mental Health Act 2000 and is continued under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). The Tribunal’s primary purpose is to review the involuntary status of persons with a mental illness and/or intellectual disability. The Act authorises the Tribunal to hear specified reviews, applications and appeals including treatm
Public Health (Declared Public Health Emergencies) Amendment Bill 2020 The Public Health (Declared Public Health Emergencies) Amendment Bill 2020 allows a declared public health emergency to be extended by regulation for periods of up to 90 days. This will allow the Queensland Government to communicate with certainty about public health emergency arrangements up to 90 days in advance. The Public Health (Declared Public Health Emergencies) Amendment Bill 2020 includes
COVID-19 Emergency Response Bill 2020 On 29 January 2020, the Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services declared a public health emergency in relation to the outbreak of COVID-19. Following the Public Health and Other Legislation (Public Health Emergency) Amendment Act 2020, the COVID-19 Emergency Response Bill 2020 (the Bill) represents a second and whole-of-government response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Bill inclu
Appointments to Board of Health and Wellbeing Queensland Health and Wellbeing Queensland was established on 1 July 2019 by the Health and Wellbeing Queensland Act 2019 (the Act) to address long-term and chronic health issues across Queensland and improve the health and wellbeing of the Queensland population. Under the Act, Health and Wellbeing Queensland is governed by a board of at least two, but not more than ten, members appointed by the Governor i
Amendments to the Public Health Act 2005 On 29 January 2020, a public health emergency was declared under section 319 of the Public Health Act 2005 for COVID-19. Since 28 March 2020, a public health direction made by the Chief Health Officer has been in place requiring anyone arriving in Queensland from overseas to self-quarantine for a period of 14 days in a hotel or other premises nominated by an emergency officer for the Public Health
Appointment of Commissioner, Queensland Mental Health Commission The Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) is constituted under the provisions of the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (the Act). Its purpose is to drive ongoing reform towards a more integrated, evidence-based, recovery-oriented mental health and substance misuse system. This object is primarily achieved by the development of a whole-of-government strategy to address systemic ment
Appointments to Hospital and Health Boards Across Queensland, each of the 16 Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) are the principal providers of public sector health services within their region. Under section 7 of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act), each HHS is independently and locally controlled by a Hospital and Health Board (HHB). HHBs are accountable for the performance of their respective HHS and for establishing and m
Referral of voluntary assisted dying laws to Queensland Law Reform Commission In November 2018, the Premier and Minister for Trade asked the Parliamentary Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee (the Committee) to inquire into aged care, end-of-life and palliative care, including voluntary assisted dying. On 24 March 2020, the Committee tabled its ‘Aged care, end-of-life and palliative care’ report, making 77 recommend
Appointment of members to panels of assessors In accordance with the Health Ombudsman Act 2013, panels of assessors contribute to upholding professional standards by providing expert advice to judicial members who constitute the independent Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) in matters relating to disciplinary proceedings for health practitioners. QCAT deals with serious disciplinary matters which, if substantiated, may resul
Further extension of declared public health emergency for COVID-19 Under the Public Health Act 2005, a declared public health emergency will lapse unless it is extended by a regulation. The public health emergency declared on 29 January 2020, and most recently extended by the Public Health (Further Extension of Declared Public Health Emergency– COVID-19) Regulation (No. 3) 2020, was due to expire on 17 August 2020 unless further extended by regulation. To ensure
Amendments to Health legislation to create position of Deputy Chief Health Officer The amendments to the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 create the position of Deputy Chief Health Officer to support the Chief Health Officer in exercising the Chief Health Officer’s functions under the Public Health Act 2005 during the COVID-19 emergency and afterwards. The amendments to the Public Health Act 2005: allow the Chief Health Officer to delegate some COVID-19 emergency powers to th
Consultation RIS for licensing pharmacy business ownership The Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee (Committee) tabled Report No. 12, 56th Parliament – Inquiry into the establishment of a pharmacy council and transfer of pharmacy ownership in Queensland (Committee Report) in October 2018. One key recommendation was that the Pharmacy Business Ownership Act 2001 (Act) be amended to enable Queensland
Appointments to Sexual Health Ministerial Advisory Committee The Queensland Sexual Health Strategy 2016–2021 (Strategy) and associated action plans for HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C were launched in December 2016. The Queensland Government invested $5.27 million over four years from 2016–17 to progress priority actions in the Strategy. The Sexual Health Ministerial Advisory Committee (Committee) was established in June 2017 to guide the implementation of
Government response to Parliamentary Health Committee Reports 33 and 34 On 24 March 2020, the Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee published: Report No. 33, 56th Parliament (Aged care, end-of-life and palliative care) (Report No. 33). On 31 March 2020, the Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee published: Report No. 34, 56th Parliament (Voluntary assisted
Development and launch of the Queensland Government COVID-19 Check In Qld app A critical control in responding to community transmission of COVID-19 is rapid and comprehensive contact tracing. On 23 December 2020, requirements for certain restricted businesses to collect customer contact details during the COVID-19 pandemic were strengthened in line with the Public Health Direction Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction (No. 12). This Direction re
Partnership to support state-level services on Norfolk Island Norfolk Island is an Australian external territory, located 1,440 km east of Brisbane, which has a population of around 1,748 people (2016 census). The island was self-governed until 2015, when the Federal Government replaced the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly with an Administrator, established the Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) and assumed responsibility for funding and delivery of n
COVID-19 Emergency Response Bill – Non-residential Tenancies & Small Business Commissioner The economic impacts of COVID-19 are continuing to evolve and it is likely that there will be long-term effects on the Queensland economy and for the business community. On 7 April 2020, the Prime Minister announced the National Cabinet agreement on the National Cabinet Mandatory Code of Conduct – SME Commercial Leasing Principles, to be legislated by the State-Territory Governments to aid commer
Public Health and Other Legislation (Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2020 In 2020, amendments were made to the Public Health Act 2005 and the Mental Health Act 2016 to support the Queensland Government’s health response to COVID-19. Given the urgency of the amendments, sunset and expiry clauses were inserted into the amending legislation which are due to expire in early 2021. To ensure the Queensland Government can continue to respond to any potential outbreaks of COVID
Appointment Health Ombudsman The Health Ombudsman is established under section 24 of the Health Ombudsman Act 2013 (the Act). Section 25 of the Act provides that the Health Ombudsman’s main functions are to: receive health service complaints and take relevant action to deal with them under the Act; identify and deal with health service issues by undertaking investigations, inquiries and other relevant action; identify and re
Making Tracks discussion paper - a shared conversation In 2017, the then Queensland Anti-Discrimination Commission and the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) released the report Addressing Institutional Barriers to Health Equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People in Queensland’s Public Hospital and Health Services (the Health Equity Report). Queensland Health has since introduced a number of substantial policy, pro
Appointment of Chairs and members to various Hospital and Health Boards Across Queensland, each of the 16 Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) are the principal providers of public sector health services within their region. Under section of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act), each HHS is independently and locally controlled by a Hospital and Health Board (HHB). HHBs are accountable for the performance of their respective HHS and for establishing and ma
Health Service Investigation into The Prince Charles Hospital On 5 July 2021, a Health Service Investigation was commissioned to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Metro North Hospital and Health Service's (MNHHS) operation of its COVID-19 ward at The Prince Charles Hospital (the Investigation). The Investigation comprised a review of compliance with relevant COVID-19 public health directions, guidelines and requirements, arising from the events t
Amendments during consideration in detail Public Health and Other Legislation (Further Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2021 Proactive and effective contact tracing has been critical to preventing widespread community transmission of COVID-19 when positive cases have been detected in the community. The ‘Check In Qld’ app (App) has significantly enhanced Queensland’s contact tracing system and is widely used across the State. Amendments will be moved during consideration in detail to the Public Health and Other Legislat
Appointments Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) was established under the former Mental Health Act 2000 and is continued under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). The Tribunal’s primary purpose is to review the involuntary status of persons with a mental illness and/or intellectual disability. The Act authorises the Tribunal to hear specified reviews, applications and appeals including treatm
Appointment of the Deputy President Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act) to review the involuntary status of people with mental illness and/or intellectual disability. The Tribunal also provides approval for the performance of electroconvulsive therapy and non-ablative neurosurgical procedures. The Tribunal consists of the President, Deputy President and other me
Appointments to various Hospital and Health Boards Across Queensland, each of the 16 Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) are the principal providers of public sector health services within their region. Under section 22 of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (Act), each HHS is independently and locally controlled by a Hospital and Health Board (HHB). HHBs are accountable for the performance of their respective HHS and for establishing and ma
Public Health and Other Legislation (Further Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2021 In 2020, amendments were made to the Public Health Act 2005 and other legislation to support the Queensland Government’s response to COVID-19 and the Queensland economy and businesses affected by the pandemic. Given the urgency of the amendments, sunset and expiry clauses were inserted into the amending legislation, which are due to expire in September 2021. The public health emergency for COVID-1
Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 On 10 May 2021, the Queensland Law Reform Commission submitted its final report and Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 to the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence. The Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 provides for a voluntary assisted dying scheme that is compassionate, safe and practical. Under the Bill, a
Making Tracks Together Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Equity Framework The Queensland Government has introduced a number of substantial policy, program and service delivery reforms to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples achieve their health aspirations since the release of the Addressing Institutional Barriers to Health Equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People in Queensland’s Public Hospital and Health Services report by the then Quee
Appointment of Deputy Director, QIMR The Queensland Institute of Medical Research, trading as the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute (QIMR Berghofer), is established under section 3 of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research Act 1945 (the Act) for the purpose of research into any branch or branches of medical science. Pursuant to section 10 of the Act, QIMR Berghofer must have a Director and Deputy Director. The Director
Amendments to the COVID-19 Emergency Response Bill 2020 On 29 January 2020, the Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services declared a public health emergency under section 319 of the Public Health Act 2005 (PH Act). As a first response, the Public Health and Other Legislation (Public Health Emergency) Amendment Act 2020 (Public Health Emergency Act) was urgently passed by Parliament on 18 March 2020. As a second response on 22 April 2020,
Appointment of the Health Ombudsman The Health Ombudsman is established under section 24 of the Health Ombudsman Act 2013 (the Act). Section 25 of the Act provides that the Health Ombudsman’s main functions are to: receive health service complaints and take relevant action to deal with them under the Act; identify and deal with health service issues by undertaking investigations, inquiries and other relevant action; identify and re
Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 The Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 (Bill) improves the operation of health legislation and advance the health of Queenslanders. The Bill includes amendments to the: Ambulance Service Act 1991 to ensure the framework for the management of confidential information is clear and aligned with the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 and remove the disqualification criteria that require
Appointment of a full-time legal member to the Mental Health Review Tribunal The role of the Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act) to review the involuntary status of people with mental illness and/or intellectual disability. The Tribunal also provides approval for the performance of electroconvulsive therapy and non-ablative neurosurgical procedures. The Tribunal consists of the President, Deputy President
Public Health and Other Legislation (Extension of Expiring Provisions) Amendment Bill 2022 In 2020, amendments were made to the Public Health Act 2005 and other legislation to support the Queensland Government’s response to COVID-19, the Queensland economy and businesses affected by the pandemic. Given the urgency of the amendments, sunset and expiry clauses were inserted into the amending legislation. These amendments were extended by the Public Health and Other Legislation (Further Ex
Appointment of a member to the board of Health and Wellbeing Queensland Health and Wellbeing Queensland was established on 1 July 2019 by the Health and Wellbeing Queensland Act 2019 (the Act) to address long-term and chronic health issues across Queensland and improve the health and wellbeing of the Queensland population. Under the Act, Health and Wellbeing Queensland is governed by a board of at least two, but not more than 10 members appointed by the Governor in
Implementation of the Intergovernmental Partnership Agreement on State Service Delivery to Norfolk Island On 22 October 2021, the Premier and Minister for the Olympics signed the Intergovernmental Partnership Agreement on State Service Delivery to Norfolk Island (IGA), which sets out terms of the partnership with the Federal Government to support the delivery of Queensland services to Norfolk Island. Significant work has been undertaken by Queensland agencies cooperatively with the Federal Government
Appointments to the National Injury Insurance Agency Queensland Board The National Injury Insurance Agency, Queensland (the Agency), was established under the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Queensland) Act 2016 on 1 July 2016. The Agency’s Board is to have between four and nine members appointed by the Governor in Council. The functions of the Board are to: manage the Agency ensure the Agency performs its functions in a proper, effective and efficient way develo
Repeal of the Queensland Productivity Commission Act 2015 and other amendments On 7 September 2020, the Queensland Government announced that, as part of the Savings and Debt Plan, the Queensland Productivity Commission (QPC) would be integrated into Queensland Treasury to establish the Office of Productivity and Red Tape Reduction (OPRTR), better driving the government’s productivity agenda. The legislative amendments facilitate the integration of the productivity and regula
Appointment of chairs, a deputy chair and members to 16 Hospital and Health Boards Across Queensland, each of the 16 Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) are the principal providers of public sector health services within their region. Under section 22 of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act), each HHS is independently and locally controlled by a Hospital and Health Board (HHB). HHBs are accountable for the performance of their respective HHS and for establishing and
Strengthening Queensland tobacco legislation to further reduce smoking Smoking remains a significant public health concern in Queensland as it continues to be the leading preventable cause of death and disease.  The Queensland Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 and the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Regulation 2010 aim to improve the health of the community by reducing exposure to tobacco and other smoking products. This is achieved mainly by:   restrict
Appointment part-time members to MHRT The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) was established under the repealed Mental Health Act 2000 and is continued under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). The primary role of the Tribunal is to provide an independent review of treatment authorities, reviews of forensic disability clients who are subject to a Forensic Order under the Forensic Disability Act 2011, treatment support ord
Achieving Balance - The Queensland Alcohol and Other Drugs Plan 2022-2027 The Queensland Government is committed to preventing and reducing the significant harm and costs associated with alcohol and other drugs (AOD) use to improve outcomes for individuals, families, communities, and the economy. Many Queenslanders use AOD, spanning a continuum from occasional use to dependence. Harm can occur with any pattern of use across the spectrum. AOD-related harm includes injury
Appointments to Health and Wellbeing Board Health and Wellbeing Queensland was established on 1 July 2019 by the Health and Wellbeing Queensland Act 2019 (the Act) to address long-term and chronic health issues across Queensland and to improve the health and wellbeing of the Queensland population. Under the Act, Health and Wellbeing Queensland is governed by a board of at least two, but not more than 10 members appointed by the Governor in
Better Care Together and response to Mental Health Select Committee Report No. 1 The development of a new five-year plan for Queensland’s state-funded mental health, alcohol and other drug (MHAOD) services and suicide prevention is a key priority of the Queensland Government. Better Care Together: a plan for Queensland’s state-funded mental health, alcohol and other drug services to 2027 (Better Care Together) builds upon the successful implementation of Connecting Care to Rec
Public Health and Other Legislation (COVID-19 Management) Amendment Bill 2022 COVID-19 remains the most significant public health challenge for Queensland, and this is expected to continue as the virus continues to mutate at a rapid rate. With the risk of COVID-19 scaling up and down as transmission continues and new variants emerge, it is therefore necessary to amend the Public Health Act 2005 to support a proportionate response to the ongoing risk of COVID-19, outside a
Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and OLAB 2022 The Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 (Bill) will strengthen public safety and confidence in health services and improve the operation of the national registration and accreditation scheme for health professions. The Bill amends the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (National Law), set out in the scheduled to the Health Practitioner Reg
Interim Response to Committee Report No. 18 Inquiry into health care services On 17 November 2021, the Legislative Assembly established an inquiry into ‘the provision of primary, allied and private health care, aged care and NDIS care services and its impact on the Queensland public health system’ (the Inquiry), to be undertaken by the Health and Environment Committee (the Committee). The Committee was asked to report on the provision of: primary and allied health care; age
Appointments to Hospital and Health Boards Across Queensland, each of the 16 Hospital and Health Services are the principal providers of public sector health services within their region. Under section 22 of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 (the Act), each Hospital and Health Service is independently and locally controlled by a Hospital and Health Board. Hospital and Health Boards are accountable for the performance of their respect
Decision RIS Reducing the negative effects of smoking in Queensland On 30 May 2022, Queensland Health released a Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement Reducing the negative effects of smoking in Queensland (Consultation RIS). Stakeholders were invited to comment on the Consultation RIS, which was published on the Queensland Government’s GetInvolved site. The four-week consultation process closed on 26 June 2022. The Consultation RIS outlined various options rel
Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 The Health and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 (Bill) amends eight health portfolio and related Acts to facilitate initiatives that promote the health of Queenslanders, support the effective provision of health services and make technical improvements to improve the operation of health and related legislation. The Bill includes amendments to the: Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 to: str
10.Appointment of Assisting Clinicians to the Mental Health Court Established under the Mental Health Act 2016, the Mental Health Court is constituted by a Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland, assisted in relation to psychiatric and intellectual disability matters by assisting clinicians to enable mentally ill and intellectually disabled offenders to be moved from the criminal justice system into the mental health system. An assisting clinician may be a psy
Appointment of Assisting Clinicians to Mental Health Court Established under the Mental Health Act 2016, the Mental Health Court is constituted by a Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland, assisted in relation to psychiatric and intellectual disability matters by assisting clinicians to enable mentally ill and intellectually disabled offenders to be moved from the criminal justice system into the mental health system. An assisting clinician may be a psy
Palliative and End-of-Life Care Strategy and Qld Health Specialist Palliative Care Workforce People living with a life-limiting illness want choice in the type and setting for their palliative care, including when, where, and how it is provided. They also want to exercise choice about their place of death and assurance that their families, carers and loved ones are supported. All Queenslanders have a right to a good death that is free from suffering and pain, with the support of palliativ
Response to Committee Report No. 18 - Inquiry into health care services On 17 November 2021, the Legislative Assembly established an inquiry into the provision of primary, allied and private health care, aged care and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) care services and its impact on the Queensland public health system (the Inquiry), to be undertaken by the Health and Environment Committee (the Committee). The Inquiry was established in response to the increa
Cycling Action Plan 2023–2025 The Queensland Cycling Strategy 2017–2027 was released in 2017 and is a whole-of-government strategy that reflects the Queensland Government's vision for more cycling, more often. It was accompanied by the first biennial two-year Queensland Cycling Action Plan 2017–2019 and the Queensland State of Cycling Report 2017. In September 2020, the second Queensland Cycling Action Plan 2020–2022 and the
Appointment of members to the Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) was established under the repealed Mental Health Act 2000 and is continued under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). The primary role of the Tribunal is to provide an independent review of treatment authorities, reviews of forensic disability clients who are subject to a Forensic Order under the Forensic Disability Act 2011, treatment support ord
Appointment of the Deputy President Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) is established under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act) to review the involuntary status of people with mental illness and/or intellectual disability. The Tribunal also provides approval for the performance of electroconvulsive therapy and non-ablative neurosurgical procedures. The Tribunal consists of the President, Deputy President and other me
COI into Forensic DNA Testing in Queensland - Final Report and Initial Implementation On 6 June 2022, the Queensland Government announced the Commission of Inquiry into Forensic DNA Testing in Queensland (Commission of Inquiry). The Commission of Inquiry released its Final Report on 13 December 2022, which highlighted organisational and individual staff deficiencies and found that, in some cases, the methods, systems and processes used by the Queensland forensic DNA laboratory were
Appointment President, Mental Health Review Tribunal The Mental Health Review Tribunal (the Tribunal) was established under the repealed Mental Health Act 2000 and is continued under the Mental Health Act 2016 (the Act). The primary role of the Tribunal is to provide an independent review of treatment authorities, reviews of forensic disability clients who are subject to a Forensic Order under the Forensic Disability Act 2011, treatment support ord
Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (Surgeons) Amendment Bill 2023 The Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (Surgeons) Amendment Bill 2023 (Bill) amends the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to protect the title ‘surgeon’ within the medical profession to safeguard the public and strengthen the regulation of cosmetic surgery in Australia. This will be achieved by making it an offence for a medical practitioner to knowingly and recklessly use the
Appointment Commissioner Queensland Mental Health Commission The Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) is constituted under the provisions of the Queensland Mental Health Commission Act 2013 (the Act). Its purpose is to drive ongoing reform towards a more integrated, evidence-based, recovery-oriented mental health and substance misuse system. This object is primarily achieved by the development of a whole-of-government strategic plan to address systemi
Better Care Together Mental Health, Alcohol Other Drug Investment The 2022-23 State Budget included $1.645 billion over five years and a capital investment of $28.5 million to improve mental health, alcohol and other drugs services and for a range of initiatives to support suicide prevention as the demand for treatment, care and support continues to grow. The total investment includes initiatives under Better Care Together: a plan for Queensland’s state-funded
Appointments to Health and Wellbeing Queensland Board Health and Wellbeing Queensland was established on 1 July 2019 by the Health and Wellbeing Queensland Act 2019 (the Act) to address long-term and chronic health issues across Queensland and to improve the health and wellbeing of the Queensland population. Under the Act, Health and Wellbeing Queensland is governed by a board of at least two, but not more than 10 members appointed by the Governor in