Australian Government launches national virtual care standards amid NDIS reform controversy

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has been tasked with developing national standards for virtual care. The Commission says virtual care, defined as any remote interaction between a patient and clinician using information technology, served over 11 million Australians in 2025. Commissioner Anne Duggan said the standards will apply the same safety and quality expectations as in‑person care and are expected to be published by the end of 2027, building on the National Model for Clinical Governance.

At the same time, a parliamentary inquiry into major reforms of the $56 billion National Disability Insurance Scheme was delayed. The report, due to be released on 19 June 2026, had been rushed and its postponement was described as “disrespectful” by disability advocates. The proposed changes could cut 160,000 participants from the scheme and have been warned could lead to loss of essential services and even deaths. NDIS Minister Mark Butler said the legislation is on track to pass parliament by early July, while opposition and disability groups are calling for amendments.