Policy & Advocacy Update - Vicki Durston - Sep26

For many women affected by breast cancer, the past few months have been filled with uncertainty, frustration and, in some cases, fear. 

When the decision was announced to removemonthly Zoladex (goserelin 3.6mg) from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and  Australia, thousands of women who rely on ovarian suppression as part of their treatment were left wondering what would happen next. With no confirmed monthly alternative available on the PBS at the time, many women were understandably concerned about whether they would continue to have access to the treatment they depend on.  

Today, we can share some welcome news. 

The Australian Government has announced that monthly triptorelin will be listed on the PBS from 1 October 2026, providing an evidence-based, funded  treatment option for people who require ovarian suppression as part of their care. Triptorelin is a well-established treatment that has been used safely for many years and has been studied extensively. Its PBS listing means women will have access to a funded monthly option with evidence supporting its use as an ovarian suppression treatment for women with breast cancer. 

This is an important outcome for our community and one that BCNA has been advocating strongly for alongside consumers, clinicians and other stakeholders. 

For many women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, ovarian suppression is not optional. It is a critical part of treatment. 

Put simply, some breast cancers are fuelled by oestrogen. Ovarian suppression helps switch off a major source of that fuel, reducing the risk of cancer returning and helping to control metastatic breast cancer. For some younger women, it can also help protect ovarian function and preserve the possibility of having children in the future.  

This is not simply about managing symptoms. 

It is about treating cancer, protecting lives and preserving future choices. 💗 

 🌸 The Impact of Uncertainty 

Since the announcement of the withdrawal of monthly Zoladex, BCNA has heard from women across Australia who were deeply concerned about what this might mean for their treatment and future. 

Many shared fears about treatment disruptions. Others were left trying to understand what alternatives might be available. Some questioned whether they would need to make significant decisions about their bodies because they could not be certain that ongoing treatment would remain accessible.  

These stories highlighted just how important it was to ensure a funded monthly alternative would be available before the withdrawal of monthly Zoladex took effect. 

No woman should be left worrying about whether an essential cancer treatment will still be there when she needs it. 

🤝 BCNA's Advocacy Efforts 

Throughout this process, BCNA's role was to listen, advocate and work towards a solution. 

We heard directly from women affected by breast cancer and brought those experiences together with clinical expertise and evidence. We engaged closely with government, the Department of Health, clinicians and industry representatives to ensure the voices of those affected remained at the centre of discussions.  

Our message was clear: 

Women needed a funded monthly alternative available through the PBS before monthly Zoladex was withdrawn.  

Today’s announcement means that goal has been achieved. 

💞 A Collective Effort 

This outcome would not have been possible without the efforts of many people and organisations. 

BCNA acknowledges  Minister Mark Butler, the Department of Health, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee and the clinicians who responded quickly to this issue and recognised the impact it was having on women affected by breast cancer.  

We also acknowledge Ipsen, which stepped forward with tTriptorelin, an established treatment that has been used internationally for many years, and worked through the necessary processes to make it available to Australian women.  

Most importantly, we want to thank the women who courageously shared their stories. Your voices mattered. Your experiences informed the conversation. And your advocacy helped drive this outcome.  

❓What Happens Next? 

While today's announcement provides welcome certainty, we know that many people will still have questions. 

BCNA will continue to support our community by sharing information, answering questions and helping people understand what this change means for them. We encourage anyone with concerns about their treatment to speak with their healthcare team about the options available to them. 

Every person's situation is unique, and treatment decisions should always be made in partnership with your medical team. 

💗 Looking Forward 

At the heart of this announcement is something women have been asking for throughout this process: certainty, continuity of treatment, affordability and choice.  

Cancer already brings enough uncertainty. 

Access to essential treatment should not be another burden for women and their families to carry. 

This is a positive step forward and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when consumers, clinicians, advocates and government work together to put patients first. 

To every woman who shared her story, asked questions, advocated for change, or supported others through this period of uncertainty, thank you. 

Today, women have greater certainty about their treatment options and that is something worth celebrating. 🌸💕