PHYSIOTHERAPIST-LED CARE FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT Model of care study reduces time in ED when receiving standard care, earlier treatment and other outcomes With Associate Professor Gustavo Machado University of Sydney @Sydney_Uni & NHMRC Principal Research Fellow, Institute for Musculoskeletal Health @msk_health SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 Associate Professor Gustavo Machado is a leading physiotherapist, health services researcher, and advocate for evidence-based reform in musculoskeletal and emergency care. He holds prestigious fellowships from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC EL2 Investigator) and The University of Sydney (Robinson Fellow). Based at the Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, he leads an innovative research program transforming how back pain and musculoskeletal conditions are managed across emergency, hospital and virtual care settings. RESHAP-ED trialled new ways to reduce crowding across busy emergency departments (EDs), by testing whether physiotherapists could provide care for people with muscle, joint and bone conditions in the ED, while also ensuring safe and effective treatment. RESHAP-ED included 1,475 patients across five EDs in NSW. Patients received care from a physiotherapist or conventional doctor- or nurse-led care. Patients treated by physiotherapists spent an average of 2.4 hours in the ED compared with 3.4 hours for those receiving standard care. They were seen and treated sooner, were three times more likely to receive care within recommended triage timeframes, and 90% went home within four hours. Patients were more satisfied with their care, while pain levels, quality of life and safety outcomes were similar between both groups. The model also reduced healthcare costs by $35 per patient. Study collaboration partners included Australasian College for Emergency Medicine, Sydney Local Health District, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney Health Partners and Australian Physiotherapy Association @apaphysio If scaled across NSW, this approach could save an estimated $19 million each year and free up more than 540,000 hours in EDs, while maintaining safe, high-quality patient care. The study has been published in Lancet doi.org/10.1016/ S0140-6736(26)01327-9, Sigera C, Campos T, Coombs D et al. Physiotherapist-led care for musculoskeletal conditions in the emergency department (RESHAP-ED): a randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation The Lancet, 2026; 408, 1326-1336 Source: From University of Sydney biography & 2026 NSW Health Awards Finalist description for Health Research Award @NSWHealth Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

PHYSIOTHERAPIST-LED CARE FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT Model of care study reduces time in ED when receiving standard care, earlier treatment and other outcomes With Associate Professor Gustavo Machado University of Sydney @Sydney_Uni & NHMRC Principal Research Fellow, Institute for Musculoskeletal Health @msk_health SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 Associate Professor Gustavo Machado is a leading physiotherapist, health services researcher, and advocate for evidence-based reform in musculoskeletal and emergency care. He holds prestigious fellowships from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC EL2 Investigator) and The University of Sydney (Robinson Fellow). Based at the Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, he leads an innovative research program transforming how back pain and musculoskeletal conditions are managed across emergency, hospital and virtual care settings. RESHAP-ED trialled new ways to reduce crowding across busy emergency departments (EDs), by testing whether physiotherapists could provide care for people with muscle, joint and bone conditions in the ED, while also ensuring safe and effective treatment. RESHAP-ED included 1,475 patients across five EDs in NSW. Patients received care from a physiotherapist or conventional doctor- or nurse-led care. Patients treated by physiotherapists spent an average of 2.4 hours in the ED compared with 3.4 hours for those receiving standard care. They were seen and treated sooner, were three times more likely to receive care within recommended triage timeframes, and 90% went home within four hours. Patients were more satisfied with their care, while pain levels, quality of life and safety outcomes were similar between both groups. The model also reduced healthcare costs by $35 per patient. Study collaboration partners included Australasian College for Emergency Medicine, Sydney Local Health District, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney Health Partners and Australian Physiotherapy Association @apaphysio If scaled across NSW, this approach could save an estimated $19 million each year and free up more than 540,000 hours in EDs, while maintaining safe, high-quality patient care. The study has been published in Lancet doi.org/10.1016/ S0140-6736(26)01327-9, Sigera C, Campos T, Coombs D et al. Physiotherapist-led care for musculoskeletal conditions in the emergency department (RESHAP-ED): a randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation The Lancet, 2026; 408, 1326-1336 Source: From University of Sydney biography & 2026 NSW Health Awards Finalist description for Health Research Award @NSWHealth Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

RESEARCH AUSTRALIA AWARDS CELEBRATE RESEARCHERS IN LIFE-CHANGING SCIENCE & DISCOVERY Australia’s health and medical research awards, now in their 22nd year With Professor Dawn Freshwater, Chair Research Australia @ResAustralia Nadia Levin, CEO @nlsydney Research Australia @ResAustralia SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 For more than two decades, the Research Australia Health & Medical Research Awards have recognised the individuals and teams transforming health outcomes across the country. Now in their 22nd year, these prestigious awards showcase the depth and breadth of Australia’s research and innovation community — from discovery and translation through to commercialisation. The awards shine a spotlight on the researchers, clinicians, philanthropists and advocates whose work improves lives, strengthens the health system and supports Australia’s global leadership in health and medical research. This year’s combined 2025–26 awards brought together a field of nominees from across the country, reflecting the remarkable strength and diversity of Australia’s health and medical research community. The Award categories were - Discovery Award - Health Services Research Award - Digital & Data Health Innovation Award - Advocacy & Philanthropy Award - Frontiers Award Australian Health Journal spoke with the Research Australia Chair and CEO immediately following the Awards ceremony. The winners were announced here researchaustralia.org/austra… Source: Adapted from Research Australia program for Awards Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

CONNECTING STUDENTS WITH CAREERS IN MEDTECH Interactive speed networking session gives students direct access to professionals & insights into their career journeys With Laila Abdul Waheed, Associate Regulatory, Digital and Policy Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) @MedTechAUS Thaniya Panapiti, Senior Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Medtronic Australasia Deema Arraf, Biomedical Engineering & Commerce Student University of Sydney & Student Volunteer Medical Technology Association of Australia RegConnect Summit 2026 SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 The Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) is the national peak body representing the MedTech industry. MTAA members deliver technologies spanning surgical robotics, diagnostic imaging, implantables, and digital health. MTAA partners with government, regulators, and clinicians to shape policy, expand patient access, and drive innovation across Australia's health system. The MedTech Match Student Career Development Session in partnership with Engineers Australia ran alongside MTAA’s RegConnect Summit 2026, and gave student volunteers the opportunity to learn about the Australian MedTech landscape, discussing what the industry looks like, where entry points exist, and how the device lifecycle maps to careers. In a unique format, 8 pre-selected professionals rotated through small student groups in 8 minute rounds. Conversational and candid, and students heard what the work is really like, across the below fields of clinical affairs, product management, academia, regulatory/quality affairs, sales and marketing, government, service engineering and systems engineering. Now in its second year, the format connects students directly with the range of professionals in an informal, high-energy speed networking format. The Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal spoke with the MC and 2 participants about the value of speed networking between students and professionals across the medical technology ecosystem. Their interviews highlighted the importance of firsthand industry insights, understanding career pathways and discovering opportunities beyond university study. – Media access credit: RegConnect 2026 Summit | Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) Source: Written by Australian Heath Journal using session description from RegConnect Summit program Australian Health Journal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

HEALTH CARE BRIEF: Incidence rates, symptoms, risks, prevention, treatment & research in Shingles (Herpes Zoster) With Dr Queenie Luu Rheumatologist, Sydney HEALTH CARE BRIEF SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 Dr Luu responds to the following questions 1. What is the incidence of herpes zoster (shingles) in the Australian population? 2. How does shingles present clinically, and what complications can affect patient outcomes? 3. How does early medical intervention influence disease progression and the risk of complications associated with shingles? 4. What demographic and clinical factors are associated with an increased risk of shingles? 5. What infection prevention and control measures are recommended for patients presenting with shingles? 6. Which clinical settings can shingles be appropriately managed? 7. What is the association between rheumatoid arthritis and the incidence of shingles? 8. What conversations should healthcare professionals have to identify patients who may benefit from shingles vaccination? Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

AVOIDING LUNG COMPLICATIONS FOR PATIENTS POST-SURGERY Improved patient recovery in muscle relaxant reversal drug, according to Specialist anaesthetist-led SNaPP study With Professor Kate Leslie AO, Specialist anaesthetist, Royal Melbourne Hospital & Honorary Professor, University of Melbourne & Member, ANZCA Clinical Trials Network RESEARCH TO PRACTICE SEGMENT Filmed in Melbourne | October 2026 A “hidden pandemic” of lung complications after surgery has been highlighted by an international study led by Australian researchers that has found how a newer muscle relaxant reversal drug can help improve patient recovery. The findings of the SNaPP Study (Sugammadex, Neostigmine and Postoperative Pulmonary complications), led by the Department of Critical Care, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne and the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) Clinical Trials Network (CTN) were published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine in June 2026 (doi.org/10.1016/S2213-2600(2…) Forty-four hospitals and 3500 patients in Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong were involved in the four-year study, which received $2.9 million from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF). The study’s Principal Investigator, specialist anaesthetist Professor Kate Leslie AO, spoke to Australian Health Journal and said the study answers one of the most hotly debated questions in anaesthesia: “Lung complications can increase the need for oxygen after surgery and cause distress to patients. By reversing muscle relaxant drugs more effectively, sugammadex helps patients breathe more deeply and prevents collapse of lung tissue,” she said. Professor Leslie said the trial findings highlighted a “hidden global pandemic” of lung complications for many patients after surgery. However, while collapse of lung tissue was common, more serious lung complications such as pneumonia were infrequent. There were also no differences in the need for intensive care treatment or length of hospital stay between the two groups of patients studied. The SNaPP Study recruited patients aged 40 years and older having abdominal or thoracic surgery. “The study results will have immediate benefits for patients and healthcare systems,” she said. Source: Adapted from Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) media release (June 2026) Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

ALARMING MOVE AWAY FROM PLANTS BASED FOODS AND REDUCED VARIETY IN DIETS Exercise levels in the healthy and population with chronic conditions, also cause for concern With Julie-Ann Yap Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and Nutritionist & Founder, Julzhealth Drew Harrisberg Exercise Physiologist & Diabetes Educator & Founder, Drew’s Daily Dose Podcast SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 Australian Dietary Guidelines (eatforhealth.gov.au/guidelin…) recommend enjoying a wide variety of nutritious foods every day, including plenty of vegetables of different types and colours, and fruit.1 Yet recently released National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS) data show fewer than one in four people (23.1 per cent) met the recommendation for fruit intake on a usual basis, and just 4.3 per cent met the recommendation for vegetables, legumes and beans ( abs.gov.au/statistics/health…) Exercise physiologist and diabetes educator Drew Harrisberg and Accredited Practising Dietitian Julie-Ann Yap have highlighted concerns about Australians’ physical activity levels and dietary habits in interviews with Australian Health Journal. Harrisberg raised concerns about insufficient physical activity and strength training, alongside poor adherence to dietary guidelines. He also highlighted the importance of understanding how different forms of exercise affect blood glucose levels for people living with diabetes, “So as a population, we're probably not moving enough, and the modalities that we're doing is also not quite optimised,” Harrisberg said. Harrisberg himself was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 21, and made it his mission to better understand and manage his health by making positive changes to the way he lives, eats and moves, as well as the mindset he brings to everyday life. Drew is also a spokesperson for new Australian consumer research revealing nearly half of Australians (47 per cent) eat four or fewer colours of fruits and vegetables each week. “The new research reveals a clear gap between perception and reality. While seven in 10 (71 per cent) Australians feel confident that their diet includes a variety of plant foods, nearly half (47 per cent) consume four or fewer colours of fruits and vegetables each week,” (doi:10.1155/2019/2125070) said Drew. Yap highlighted declining plant-food consumption and variety, with cost-of-living pressures influencing Australians’ food choices. Reduced consumption of vegetables, fruit, beans and legumes can affect fibre and micronutrient intake. Both Yap and Harrisberg, citing Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures highlight a substantial gap between Australians’ dietary habits and national dietary guidelines, particularly for vegetables, legumes and beans. “Two concerns that I'm seeing is that people are eating less variety of plant foods and also less overall plant foods,” Yap said. Both interviews highlight the importance of sustainable dietary habits, informed nutritional choices and appropriate physical activity to support long-term health and wellbeing. Source: Adapted from transcript and Viva Communications media release for eimele (October 2026) Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

MEDICAL DEVICE REGULATIONS EVOLVE FOR AUSTRALIAN INNOVATORS WITH EUROPEAN AMBITIONS Notified body and approved body attend Regulatory Summit to support access to the EU market. With Gabrielle Cesvet, Head of Public Affairs, Scarlet Tirion Evans, Head of Technical Operations & Head of Notified Body, Scarlet SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 Medical device regulation is undergoing significant change as regulators across major jurisdictions grapple with the rapid growth of software and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. Speaking with Australian Health Journal at the Medical Technology Association of Australia’s @MedTechAus RegConnect Summit 2026 in Sydney in September, Gabrielle Cesvet, Head of Public Affairs at Scarlet, said manufacturers need greater clarity and sufficient lead time as new regulatory frameworks emerge. “We need to make sure that from a regulatory perspective and from a conformity assessment perspective, we're able to keep pace with that innovation,” she said. Cesvet highlighted reforms underway in the European Union, including efforts to simplify the Medical Device Regulation (MDR), reduce regulatory burdens and create a framework better suited to software and AI. She also pointed to the UK’s plans to revamp its regulatory system and increase international reliance. Tirion Evans, Head of Technical Operations and Head of Notified Body at Scarlet, said the company is increasingly working with Australian manufacturers seeking access to international markets. Scarlet operates as a Notified Body in the EU, an Approved Body in the UK and a Third Party Review Organization in the US. Evans encouraged innovators to address regulatory requirements early rather than waiting until products are fully developed. “The most important thing is to try and tackle the regulatory issues right at the beginning,” she said. The interviews highlighted the growing importance of regulatory expertise in helping innovative software and AI medical devices reach markets efficiently while keeping pace with technological change. Source: Adapted from transcript using AI Media access credit: Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA), RegConnect Summit 2026, Sydney September, 2026 @MedTechAus Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

PREVENT AND PROTECT: NSW POLITICAL CANDIDATES OUTLINE POLICY PRIORITIES IN GREAT HEALTH DEBATE co-hosted by PHAA NSW Branch & University of Sydney’s School of Public Health With Anita Dessaix, NSW Branch President Public Health Association of Australia & Director of Cancer Prevention & Advocacy Cancer Council NSW @CCNewSouthWales Professor Camille Raynes-Greenow @C4Camille, Deputy Associate Dean (Research), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney @syd_health @Sydney_Uni SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | October 2026 Heading towards NSW State Election in March 2027, the NSW Health Minister, Shadow Minister for Health and Greens Health spokesperson met to debate one another this week – laying out their vision of how they would protect the health of NSW residents and use prevention to reduce demand on NSW hospitals, doctors and ambulances. Held on 1 October and co-hosted by the Public Health Association of Australia NSW Branch and the University of Sydney’s School of Public Health, the debate examined how NSW can reduce pressure on hospitals and health services by addressing health risks before they develop into serious illness. The discussion highlighted priorities including obesity, tobacco control, climate change, gambling, health inequities and the broader social determinants of health. Speakers also emphasised the need for sustained investment in prevention rather than relying solely on expanding hospital and clinical capacity. Anita Dessaix, NSW Branch President of the Public Health Association of Australia, told Australian Health Journal that a key priority is for the next NSW Government to commit to a long-term preventative health strategy. “One of our critical policy asks is for the next NSW Government to introduce a five-year New South Wales Preventative Health Strategy.” Professor Camille Raynes-Greenow, Deputy Associate Dean (Research) at the University of Sydney, also highlighted the importance of prevention and research-informed policy. Speaking in her interview with Australian Health Journal, she said: “Ultimately, I'd really like to see a much stronger focus on prevention.” The debate reinforced the growing focus on prevention as a critical component of a sustainable NSW health system. POLITICAL CANDIDATES IN GREAT HEALTH DEBATE - The Hon. Ryan Park MP, NSW Minister for Health, Minister for Regional Health, - The Hon. Sarah Mitchell MLC, Shadow Minister for Health, Shadow Minister for Regional Health, and Shadow Minister for Mental Health - Dr Amanda Cohn MLC, a Member of the NSW Legislative Council, and the NSW Greens spokesperson for Health. Source: Adapted from PHAA media release (September, 2026) & transcript Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

BUILDING ON TRUST AND COLLABORATION TO ROADMAP NEXT PHASE OF AUSTRALIA’S VACCINE SUCCESS Conference returns to lead charge in strengthening the entire life cycle of vaccine development With Leah Goodman Chief Executive Officer Biointelect @BiointelectInfo SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | September 2026 Trust, collaboration and a stronger vaccine ecosystem were the focus of the second Australian Vaccine Value Chain Conference, held in Sydney, September 2026 and hosted by life science consultancy Biointelect. More than 200 leaders from government, industry, academia, research, investment and the immunisation community attended, joined by international representatives including the International Vaccine Institute @IVIHeadquarters and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations @CEPI. The conference took place amid falling global immunisation rates, rising misinformation, shrinking funding and a resurgence of measles. In Australia, childhood immunisation rates have fallen by between 2.3 and 4.3 percentage points at standard age milestones each year since 2020. Discussions covered research funding, regional health security, sovereign manufacturing, data and capacity building, vaccine access, uptake resistance and pandemic preparedness. Delegates noted progress through the new Australian Centre for Disease Control and the updated National Immunisation Strategy, but experts say further action is needed. In an interview with the Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal , Biointelect CEO Leah Goodman said the mood had shifted since the inaugural 2024 conference, when nervousness was evident. This year, she said, attendees were "feeling that they had a role to play in the shaping of the Australian ecosystem." She pointed to the first six companies announced in the Biointelect Venturer incubator, funded through the Medical Research Future Fund, as a sign of progress. Goodman also stressed the importance of international cooperation, stating that "no country can build a resilient vaccine ecosystem alone." A white paper will capture the discussions and set priorities for the next two years. Source: Adapted from Biointelect media release (September 2026) and transcript Australian Health Journal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

FROM SINGLE USE TO CIRCULAR USE Increased attention from Governments, health services and industry evolving policy and regulatory frameworks With Jane Crowe, Vice President Asia Pacific Cardinal Health @cardinalhealth Neroli Manning Managing Director, ANZ at Cardinal Health @cardinalhealth Dan Vukelich, CEO and President, @DVukelich Association of Medical Device Reprocessors (AMDR) SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | September 2026 Healthcare sustainability is increasingly becoming a strategic priority, extending beyond environmental goals to influence procurement, regulation, costs and supply-chain resilience. Against this backdrop, medical device reprocessing is emerging as a potential pathway towards a more circular healthcare system. In September 2026 at the RegConnect26 Summit, hosted by the Medical Technology Association of Australia, Dan Vukelich, President and CEO of the Association of Medical Device Reprocessors, outlined the international evolution of reprocessing, remanufacturing and refurbishment of single-use medical devices (SUDs). Drawing on more than two decades of experience across the United States, Europe and other major healthcare markets, Vukelich explored how these models are increasingly influencing sustainability strategies, procurement policies and regulatory frameworks. Reprocessing can help reduce medical waste and emissions while improving resource efficiency and strengthening supply-chain resilience. In an interview with Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal , Vukelich was joined by Jane Crowe and Neroli Manning from Cardinal Health, a global medical device and healthcare company. The discussion examined the company’s experience in the United States and its plans to establish a remanufacturing facility in Newcastle. Expected to open in 2027, the facility will be among the few in Australia capable of remanufacturing single-use medical devices, with products returned to circulation following quality testing and high-level disinfection processes. Vukelich highlighted the need for greater regulatory clarity around cleaning validation, cycle limits and demonstrating that reprocessed devices meet medical device manufacturing standards. “These devices are as safe and as effective as original equipment,” he said. The speakers also identified opportunities for Australia to develop green MedTech manufacturing capabilities and potentially expand sustainable healthcare solutions across the Asia-Pacific region. Media access credit: RegConnect 2026 Summit | Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) @MedTechAus PowerPoint slides supplied by Association of Medical Device Reprocessors (AMDR) Source: Written by Australian Health Journal using AI Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

BUILDING WOMEN'S HEALTH TECHNOLOGY APPS TO CATER FOR EXPLODING DEMAND With Alecia Taryn, CEO and Founder SistaShop PEOPLE IN HEALTH CARE SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | September 2026 After more than a decade developing women’s health technology, SistaShop CEO and Founder Alecia Taryn is focused on addressing a growing challenge in reproductive health: creating trusted digital infrastructure that connects consumers, healthcare professionals and commercial providers. Taryn began developing pregnancy and post-pregnancy fitness apps before moving into technology supporting women undergoing IVF. Her experience has led her to combine her interests in women’s health and technology through SistaShop, a platform designed to help women’s health startups and established businesses reach their audiences without the significant marketing costs often associated with launching new products. Speaking in an interview with Australian Health Journal, Taryn said one of the platform’s key challenges is bringing its different stakeholders together while preparing for its planned launch. “It's a really big problem. So what I'm building now with SistaShop is the capability to reach your audience in women's health,” she said. Taryn also highlighted trust and verification as increasingly important issues as women seek health information and products online. She said misinformation shared through social media platforms can create significant risks, reinforcing the need for qualified professionals and credible products to be clearly identified. “I focused on verification in women's health specifically because I want to reduce risk to women online,” Taryn said. SistaShop is preparing to launch across Australia and the US, initially onboarding healthcare professionals, service providers and product suppliers. Taryn said the platform will need to continually adapt as technology, regulations and jurisdictional requirements evolve. Source: Adapted from transcript Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Get your interviews captured across Australia audienced.org/contact

FINE EDGE OF DENTISTRY RETURNS, RACDS scientific program takes dental care and dental surgery into the next era With Dr Erin Mahoney, Paediatric Dentist & President Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) @RACDSEducation SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | September 2026 In September 2026, the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons returned with its bi-annual, Fine Edge of Dentistry 2026 Conference. The conference was held is Sydney and was also an opportunity to honour recent outstanding contributions and achievements from College Members and Fellows, within the curated scientific program. Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal spoke with RACDS President Dr Erin Mahoney about the themes and how the college and it’s members are embracing the next era in personal and professional development opportunities for enhanced patient care underpinned by clinical excellence. Source: Written by Australian Health Journal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

RESEARCH, MENTORSHIP AND THE PHD EXPERIENCE Supervisor and candidate reflect on confidence, independence and recognition With Associate Professor Kara Vine-Perrow, Deputy Director Community Partnerships and Impact, Molecular Horizons Research Institute UOW & Group Leader, Targeted Cancer Therapeutics Research Laboratory, University of Wollongong @uow Dr Elahe Minaei, Associate Research Fellow, University of Wollongong @uow SEGMENT Filmed in Wollongong, NSW | September 2026 Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers, with survival rates below 10 per cent and treatments often as harsh as the disease itself. Finding better ways to treat one of the deadliest cancers has become the focus of a University of Wollongong research team, where the relationship between a PhD supervisor and candidate has also played an important role in shaping the next generation of researchers. Associate Professor Kara Vine-Perrow, Deputy Director of Community Partnerships and Impact at the Molecular Horizons Institute and Group Leader of the Targeted Cancer Therapeutics Lab at UOW, leads research into improving the delivery of drugs directly to diseased tissue. Her team is particularly focused on diseases with high unmet medical needs, including inoperable pancreatic cancer. Whilst being a PhD candidate, Dr Minaei and her team developed biodegradable micro-implants that deliver chemotherapy and immunotherapy directly into tumours, targeting treatment at the source. This innovation reduces toxic side effects, activates the immune system, and makes powerful therapies safer and more effective. Her preclinical studies show promising results, with industry partners calling the approach a “game changer” and clinicians hopeful it could finally make immunotherapy effective for pancreatic cancer. For Dr Elahe Minaei, a recent PhD graduate and Associate Research Fellow in Vine-Perrow’s laboratory, the pancreatic cancer and immunotherapy project aligned closely with her background and research interests. Her previous experience in immunology and cancer cell and molecular biology helped shape her decision to undertake her PhD with Vine-Perrow. The pair discussed their experience in a PhD Supervisor and PhD Candidate interview with Australian Health Journal, highlighting the importance of mentorship alongside scientific research. “I think it’s very important that you know your supervisor,” Minaei said, emphasising the role of a supervisor in supporting both personal and professional growth. Vine-Perrow said the progression of a PhD candidate towards independence was among the most rewarding aspects of supervision, particularly as the relationship ultimately develops into one between colleagues. Source: Adapted from Shaping Australia Awards (Universities Australia @uniaus ) website and University of Wollongong media release (February 2026) Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

NATIONAL INCUBATOR SHIFTS INTO GEAR, ANNOUNCING VACCINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE INNOVATION COHORT Six Australian infectious disease innovations receive $10.48 million to accelerate commercialisation potential With Jenny Herz, Co-Founder and Executive Director Biointelect @BiointelectInfo Danielle Shand, General Manager Biointelect Venturer SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | September 2026 Biointelect Venturer is Australia’s national incubator for infectious disease innovation, helping promising Australian scientific innovators accelerate their path from discovery to impact. Funded by the Australian Government's Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) through the 2024 BioMedTech Incubator grant opportunity, Biointelect Venturer combines catalytic non-dilutive funding with commercialisation expertise, strategic guidance, networks and tailored support to progress early-stage innovations towards commercial and investment readiness. Managed and operated by Biointelect, the incubator builds on Biointelect’s deep expertise and success in supporting early-stage biotech and medtech commercialisation. Biointelect Venturer has announced six Australian infectious disease innovations will share $10.48 million in the incubator’s first funding round giving the successful research teams the ability to advance their early-stage breakthroughs to commercial and investment readiness. - AdaptiVax Pty Ltd - Ebivanta Therapeutics Pty Ltd - ENA Respiratory Pty Ltd - Proboxis Biotechnology Pty Ltd - Saccharide Therapeutics Pty Ltd - SAMMvax Pty Ltd The recipients address significant local and global unmet health needs in infectious disease and include three vaccine offerings, a unique nasal antiviral technology and two vaccine platform technologies. The projects will now enter the Biointelect Venturer incubation program for up to two years and receive non-dilutive funding, tailored commercialisation support, expert mentoring and access to national and international networks to help progress their technologies to secure commercial interest and funding. Biointelect Venturer was established through a $32.9 million Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant from the Australian Government’s MRFF Medical Research Commercialisation initiative. It will support two national cohort intakes, this being the first, and a dedicated top-up round for high-potential projects as part of the program. Biointelect Venturer is helping to build local capability in translational research and commercialisation and supporting the creation and growth of Australian biotech companies developing health technologies across the infectious disease sector. Ultimately the ambition is to strengthen Australia’s position as a global infectious disease innovation hub. Source: Adapted from Biointelect media release (August 2026) Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

LIVED EXPERIENCE with SEVERE AORTIC VALVE STENOSIS (AORTIC STENOSIS) From collapsing in Thailand to meeting technicians who hand-stitched heart valve in Singapore With Geoffrey Lewis, Age 75 Diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis, following collapse Rebecca Pickles, daughter of Geoffrey Lewis LIVED EXPERIENCE SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | September 2026 A Batemans Bay grandfather who dismissed months of breathlessness and fatigue as “just getting older” is now preparing to travel to Singapore to meet the technicians who hand-stitched the heart valve that helped save his life. In April 2026, retired logistics courier, Geoff Lewis, 75, collapsed in front of his daughter and grandchildren while on holiday in Thailand, after months of symptoms he had ignored. The collapse would lead to a diagnosis of severe aortic stenosis and urgent treatment back home. Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the heart valve which makes the heart work harder to pump blood around the body.(1) When left untreated, severe symptomatic aortic stenosis is associated with poor outcomes, with more than half of those affected potentially dying within two years. (2) The disease most commonly affects those aged 65 years and over, and its symptoms are often mistaken for the normal signs of ageing, (3) such as gradual reduction in exercise capacity, shortness of breath, fatigue (tiredness) and tightness, or pain in the chest. (4) An estimated 100,000 Australians are living with severe aortic stenosis, with a further 10,000 new cases developing each year.(2) The disease is increasingly treatable,(5) and can often be identified through a routine heart examination, including listening for a heart murmur with a stethoscope.(5) Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and an individual’s circumstances. Options may include monitoring or valve replacement, including surgical approaches or minimally invasive procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Citations: 1. Strange, G., et al., Uncovering the treatable burden of severe aortic stenosis in Australia: current and future projections within an ageing population. BMC Health Services Research, 2021. 21(1): p. 790. 2. Otto, C.M., Timing of aortic valve surgery. Heart (British Cardiac Society), 2000. 84(2): p. 211-218. 3. Hope For Hearts. Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis. [July 2026]; Available from: hopeforhearts.com.au/aortic-…. 4. Victor Chang Cardio Research Institute. Aortic Stenosis. [July 2026]; Available from: victorchang.edu.au/aortic-st…. 5. The Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute. Our hidden ageing: Time to listen to the heart. 2021; Available from: baker.edu.au/impact/advocacy…. Source: Adapted from media release, VIVA! Communications Pty Ltd - a GHMC Company August 2026. Supplied footage: Edwards Lifesciences (Singapore) Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED

MEDTECH INDUSTRY INVITED TO NSW PARLIAMENT HOUSE Local manufacturing emerges as key priority, along with jobs, supply chain resilience and patient benefits With Justin Foster, Associate Director, Advocacy and Government Relations, Medical Technology Association of Australia @MedTechAus Brendan Cummins VP & General Manager ANZ, Baxter Healthcare @baxter_intl The Hon Courtney Houssos MLC, Minister for Finance, Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement, Minister for Natural Resources, NSW Parliament @CourtneyHoussos James Doyle, Vice-Chair Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) @MedTechAus Lachlan Thorpe, Age 21 Diagnosed with CRPS following sporting injury, recipient of spinal cord stimulator SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | August 2026 The inaugural NSW Parliament MedTech Showcase, hosted by The Hon Courtney Houssos MLC has highlighted the medical technology sector’s contribution to patient care, local manufacturing, jobs and the broader economy. Speaking with the Australian Health Journal, Justin Foster, Associate Director of Advocacy and Government Relations at the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA), said the event provided an important opportunity for industry and government to work together on shared priorities. He said the showcase demonstrated that MedTech not only saves and improves lives, but also creates significant economic opportunities through manufacturing, investment, exports and employment. “We’re collaborating with them on a unity ticket in terms of delivering more value to the economy, manufacturing, and also to local jobs,” Foster said. The event brought together a diverse range of companies, from emerging startups and small and medium-sized businesses to global MedTech companies investing in NSW. The showcase also demonstrated the importance of sovereign manufacturing capability, particularly during supply disruptions. The message was local production could strengthen supply chains while supporting highly skilled employment and innovation. The event also provided an opportunity for the industry to discuss policy issues, including value-based procurement, which seeks to ensure purchasing decisions consider the broader value of medical technologies rather than price alone. Foster said the showcase could serve as a model for further engagement across Australia. “There is definitely an opportunity for us to be engaging across states and territories,” with future discussions potentially extending the initiative beyond NSW. Source: Written by Australian Health Journal from transcript. Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

GOVERNANCE, SAFETY AND QUALITY OF DIGITAL HEALTH PRODUCTS With Chris Boyd-Skinner, Chief Executive Officer Digital Health Standards Council of Australasia PEOPLE IN HEALTH CARE SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | August 2026 Chris Boyd-Skinner is Chief Executive Officer of the Digital Health Standards Council of Australasia (DHSCA). He is an experienced digital health and governance expert, having led national and international clinical governance in digital health and AI initiatives for the Australian Government. He is practicing registered nurse with over 15 years' experience in critical care and consults to the World Health Organization's Greece Office on Quality of Care and Patient Safety Office. As a founding member of the IEEE Standards Association Ethical Assurance of Data-Driven Technologies for Mental Healthcare sub-committee, hosted at Cambridge University and the Alan Turing Institute, his interests span AI governance, patient safety for healthcare technologies and clinical governance in health and care settings. Chris led implementation of Australia’s National Safety and Quality Digital Mental Health (NSQDHM) Standards, and holds undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in nursing alongside a dual Master of International Public Health and Health Management from UNSW. In 2022, Chris was the recipient of the distinguished Winston Churchill Fellowship, exploring global models for safety and quality in digital mental health technologies. Source: Supplied Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj

CHALLENGE ADVANCES HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES AND MEDICAL DEVICES IN THE MEDTECH SECTOR Building Better Futures for Health Reaches 11 Year Milestone With George Sidis, Managing Director, IDE Group @ide_group Teneille Murray, Innovation & Growth Lead Medical Technology Association of Australia @MedTechAus Nick Northcott, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman Eudaemon Technologies SEGMENT Filmed in Sydney | August 2026 In July IDE Group launched the 2027 Building Better Futures for Health (BBFH) Challenge, a program supporting early-stage MedTech innovators move from concept to commercialisation. Delivered with Medical Technology Association of Australia’s (MTAA) MedTech Compass, the 2027 program marks 10 years of impact. Now in its 11th year, BBFH supports researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs and early-stage ventures tackling urgent healthcare needs. Selected teams will pitch to industry experts, gaining feedback to strengthen commercial potential. BBFH combines IDE Group’s commercial and technical expertise with MTAA’s sector knowledge to help high-potential innovators validate, develop and commercialise health technologies. Since 2018, it has become a key platform for Australian MedTech innovation. Participants will compete for up to $40,000 in IDE Group services: a $30,000 jury prize and $10,000 People’s Choice Award. Finalists also receive tailored guidance from IDE Group’s engineers, designers and clinicians. The winning team will join MedTech Compass, MTAA’s program supporting early-stage medical device and digital health ventures with regulation, reimbursement, investment and market access guidance. Over the years several start-ups have reached maturation to enter or soon to enter the market such as the inaugural Building Better Futures for Health (BBFH) Winner 2016 Eudaemon Technologies. Applications close 31 August 2026, followed by a Semi-Finalist Showcase on the 12 November 2026 in Sydney and the Grand Final at the MTAA MedTech Conference on 3 March 2027 in Sydney. To apply, please visit the BBFH Challenge website at ide.group/bbfh-challenge. Source: Adapted from joint IDE Group and MTAA media release, July 2026 Australian Health Journal @AUHealthJournal Produced & published by AUDIENCED Appear on Australian Health Journal ahj.com.au/getting-on-ahj