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Vorasidenib added to Australian PBS offers new hope for rare brain cancer
The targeted drug vorasidenib, sold under the brand name Voranigo, was listed on Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme on 1 August 2026, providing the first new treatment option for the rare IDH‑mutant astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma brain cancers in two decades. The medicine, previously priced at about AU$28,000 per month, is now subsidised, reducing the cost for patients.
Health Minister Mark Butler said the PBS listing could benefit roughly 135 Australians diagnosed each year, most of whom are under 45. Peter McCallum Cancer Centre oncologist Jim Whittle noted that the scheme gives clinicians a targeted tool to add to existing options. Victorian patient Leah Ferguson, diagnosed at 38 and mother of a two‑year‑old daughter, has been taking vorasidenib for two years and says it has given her more quality time with her family.
Eligibility covers adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who have not previously received systemic anti‑cancer therapy or radiotherapy.
Entities
Australian Government · Jim Whittle · Leah Ferguson · Mark Butler · Vorasidenib
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Before PBS listing, vorasidenib cost about AU$28,000 per month; after listing it is subsidised. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] Leah Ferguson, a 38‑year‑old Victorian mother, has been taking vorasidenib for two years and says it has given her more quality time with her daughter. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] Oncologist Jim Whittle said PBS access provides clinicians with a targeted treatment option. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] Vorasidenib (brand Voranigo) was added to Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme on 1 August 2026. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] PBS eligibility includes adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who have not previously received systemic anti‑cancer therapy or radiotherapy. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] Vorasidenib slows the progression of IDH‑mutant astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, a rare and incurable brain cancer. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] This is the first targeted treatment for this disease in 20 years. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] Health Minister Mark Butler said the medicine could help about 135 Australians diagnosed each year, most younger than 45. www.perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au