Feedback on the draft National Microbial Genomics Framework 2024-2025

Overview

Microbial genomics is the application of genome sequencing technologies to characterise and analyse pathogens for the purposes of informing clinical and public health investigation and response to communicable disease outbreaks. The implementation of this technology is rapidly transforming the Australian pathology sector and its accelerated implementation to support the COVID-19 response, provides a unique opportunity to leverage its value in understanding and controlling other communicable diseases of public health significance.

In 2019, Australia’s first National Microbial Genomics Framework 2019-22 was endorsed by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee and published. Soon after, an associated Implementation Plan was published in early 2021.

The Department has developed a revised draft Framework to cover the period of 2024-2025. In drafting this Framework, consideration has been given as to how this framework may evolve and be integrated into planning for the design of the Australian Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) to ensure the challenges, vulnerabilities and areas for improvement identified throughout this process (including lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic), are explored.

We are seeking your feedback on the new draft National Microbial Genomics Framework 2024-2025.

Why your views matter

The purpose of this consultation is to seek community and stakeholder feedback on the draft Framework. The diverse perspectives, experiences, knowledge of people are valued, respected, and will contribute to the final Framework.

We want to hear your opinions on areas such as the:

• vision set out for the Framework, and
• overarching goals, targets and priority areas that will guide the continued national implementation of microbial genomics

Your feedback from this consultation will inform the development of the final Framework.

What Consultation has already taken place?

The original Framework and associated Implementation Plan was drafted in partnership with key stakeholders, following targeted consultations with jurisdictions, sector peak bodies, national community organisations and national research centres of excellence.

This is the first and only public consultation for the National Microbial Genomics Framework 2024-2025, anticipated to be published on the Department of Health website in late 2023.

Please find the draft below for your review. You can download the PDF document via the below icon or at the end of this webpage under related documents. 

How to provide your input?

We are seeking your submission via survey responses. The consultation period will finish on Monday, 2 October 2023.

Late submissions or requests for extensions will not be accepted.

Questions about the Framework can be directed to: Pathogen.Genomics@health.gov.au

What happens next

Your feedback will help inform the development of the Framework which is expected to be finalised toward the end of 2023.