From 3D-printed micro-lenses to microscopic endoscopes, there is no shortage of health and medical innovation across the globe right now – with plenty originating right here in Australia.
In this edition, we mark World Immunisation Week (24–30 April) – a timely reminder of the role vaccines play in protecting lives and strengthening our health system. We also spotlight exciting Australian health innovations that are redefining how we detect, treat and prevent disease.
Tell us what topics you would like covered in upcoming editions. Email us at social@digitalhealth.gov.au.
World Immunisation Week: Vaccinations for all
World Immunisation Week (24–30 April) serves as an important opportunity to reflect on how vital vaccines are in protecting our health through every stage of life. This global awareness week highlights how vaccines protect people of all ages against disease and underscores the collective action needed to build this protection for healthier communities, stronger health systems and a more resilient Australia. It is also a great time to check that you and your family are up to date with your recommended vaccinations.
The National Immunisation Program
The Australian National Immunisation Program provides free vaccines against several diseases, to increase national immunisation rates and reduce vaccine preventable disease. To check your eligibility, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website.
my health app
The my health app provides a secure and convenient way for you to access your immunisation information, including the date given, diseases, dose number, source and vaccine details. Learn more about accessing your immunisation information by visiting our website.
3D printing at the frontline of Australian health innovation
Australian health researchers and professionals continue to pioneer global medical innovation that redefines how we detect, treat and prevent disease. From reconstructing bone at the nano level to building hair-thin lenses that explore inside arteries, 3D printing is paving the way to less invasive and more personalised patient care in Australia and beyond.
3D-printed micro-lens
Researchers from the Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) at the University of Adelaide have created a 3D printed micro-lens that can peer inside blood vessels which is a new technology that can lead to preventing heart attacks. The endoscopes are hair-thin, and are a less invasive way to see real-time physiological data.
3D printing bones at nanoscale
Meanwhile, in Sydney, researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a nanoscale 3D printing technique that closely mimics the mineral composition and structure of natural bone.
The technology allows human cells to recognise and interact with the synthetic material in a way that mirrors real bone, achieving comparable strength and biological properties of natural bone while reducing the risk of long-term complications.
'This technology brings us a step closer to transforming bone graft surgeries in the future,' said Professor Hala Zreiqat, the Payne-Scott Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Sydney.
By pushing the boundaries of biomedical 3D printing, Australian researchers are building the next generation of diagnostic and therapeutic tools to make healthcare safer, faster and more human-centred.
Embedding digital health education into degrees across Australia to deliver greater capability
A national approach to embed digital health education into university degrees is part of a groundbreaking project to deliver greater capability to Australia's healthcare workforce.
As part of the National Digital Health Capability Action Plan (CAP), the Agency will collaborate with the Australian Council of Senior Academic Leaders in Digital Health to support digital health capability for new and existing health workers.
Agency CEO Amanda Cattermole PSM said the Agency recognises how important it is to build the digital health capability of the health workforce.
Expanded investment in Allied Health to accelerate connected care
Tripling its investment, the Agency is accelerating the connection of allied health professionals to comprehensive consumer healthcare data via My Health Record and electronic prescribing services through its expanded Allied Health Industry Offer.
Agency CEO Amanda Cattermole PSM said the expanded investment underscores the Agency's commitment to improving clinical decision-making at the point of care.
Webinar: How pharmacies can assist consumers to view their Active Script List (ASL) | 30 April 2025, 2.30pm (AEST)
Want to help your patients view their ASL? Learn about its functionality in the my health app, what the activation code is and how to generate it for your patients.
Webinar: Protect your digital life | 8 May 2025, 2pm (AEST)
Hosted by the Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF), join Agency experts for advice on how to keep your personal and health information secure, the importance of setting strong passwords and other practical tips.
Preventative Health Conference | 28 – 30 April | Canberra, ACT
Convened by the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA), this conference will focus on the theme 'Prevention is political' to explore the influence of politics on public health initiatives. The event provides a platform for professionals in preventive health to discuss the challenges, benefits and opportunities arising from the political landscape.
Digital Health Festival | 13–15 May | Melbourne, VIC
The Digital Health Festival brings together 8,000+ senior execs for two dynamic days of learning, networking and fun. Full of spaces for connection to thrive, where attendees can rub shoulders with leaders in digital transformation including senior executives, clinicians and tech experts from hospitals, primary and allied health, pharma and aged care, alongside Australia's wellness community.
Speakers from the Agency include:
- Amanda Cattermole PSM, Chief Executive Officer
- Peter O'Halloran, Chief Digital Officer
- Danielle Pentony, Chief Information Security Officer
- Sandra Cook, Branch Manager Connected Care
- Chris Boyd-Skinner CF, Director Clinical Governance
View the Digital Health Festival agenda.
HealthTech | 12 June 2025 | Sydney, NSW
HealthTech 2025 brings together the nation's brightest minds to explore patient-centred innovation and the digital future of healthcare.
Ines Sostaric, the Agency's Branch Manager, Customer Experience and Products will join a panel of experts to share her insights and expertise on translating digital adoption to operational delivery.
If you’re looking for a role that’s professionally and personally rewarding and offers career growth and mentoring, check out the latest jobs at the Australian Digital Health Agency.
- Junior Data Engineer – applications close 30 April, 11pm (AEST)
- Service Desk Support – applications close 4 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Contract Administration Officer – applications close 5 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Contract Manager – applications close 5 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Senior ServiceNow System Administrator – applications close 5 May, 11pm (AEST)
- ServiceNow System Administrator – applications close 5 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Service Provider Coordinator – applications close 5 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Product Design Lead – applications close 5 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Assistant Director, Compliance Outreach – applications close 5 May, 11:30pm (AEST)
- Service Design Lead – applications close 6 May, 11pm (AEST)
- APS5 Security Advisor – applications close 7 May, 11pm (AEST)
- Temporary Employment Register – Never closes
- APS Section 26 Transfer – Permanent and Temporary – Employment Register – Never closes
See more vacancies on our careers page.
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