The Australian National Medicinal Drug Policy

A responsibility of Government is to ensure that safe and efficacious medicines are available for people, from local industry, to treat illness and to maintain health. However, the cost of these medications to the public must be such that access is not denied because of financial barriers. Accessibility alone does not ensure that health outcomes are maximized. It is also necessary to have in place structures and processes which involve all stakeholders in ensuring the quality use of medicines. All of these components need to be incorporated in a national, co-ordinated policy which acts as a reference point for appropriate drug use, policy development and evaluation.