The Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) has been granted interim authorisation by the ACCC to allow its medical technology companies to coordinate the supply and potential manufacture in Australia of ventilators, testing kits, personal protective equipment and other medical equipment needed to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
This move comes in a bid to address the potential supply shortages more quickly.
It will also allow the MTAA to keep the Federal Government, and State and Territory Governments, along with relevant agencies up to date on supply issues.
“Our decision will help companies urgently address potential shortages or other constraints on the supply of crucial medical equipment,” ACCC Chair Rod Sims says.
“This supports government efforts to ensure governments and health services are able to provide a coordinate response to the pandemic.
“Medical technology companies will now be able to roll out a coordinated plan for supplies of medical equipment nationwide, which is likely to be crucial in assisting Australia’s response to COVID-19.”
The ACCC will now seek feedback on the interim authorisation as well as the application for final authorisation for a period of 12 months.
