Greater access to life-extending drug for people with metastatic breast cancer

In a significant decision set to benefit around 1,700 people each year, access to cancer drug trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu) is being expanded from 1 September 2024.

For those living with the newly defined HER2-low subtype of metastatic breast cancer, this is a vital development that will extend their lives and improve quality of life.

Until now, the high cost of each treatment – $10,000 to $15,000 every three months – has kept it out of reach of most Australians. The Government’s milestone decision to list it on the PBS reduces that cost to just $31.60 ($7.70 concession) per treatment.

We are extremely proud to have played a role in this achievement through working with government and amplifying the voice of our members.

This is a part of our commitment to secure better treatments, support, and policies to benefit those living with metastatic disease.

Sarah's story

Sarah Lee, who has spent more than $200,000 on Enhertu to treat her metastatic breast cancer, welcomes this announcement. She was diagnosed in 2017 at the age of 41 and accessed Enhertu through private treatment, spending more than $13,000 every three weeks.

“The financial burden of Enhertu drained my life savings, and the fear of what would happen when the money ran out was overwhelming. I'm deeply relieved that Enhertu is now on the PBS, ensuring that no one else has to endure the same financial and emotional strain that I did.” 

Sarah recently became eligible for subsidised access to the drug. Last weekend, she completed the Adelaide Marathon – her 10th marathon, and the first she has run with her daughter, which she described as "a pretty magical moment".

On the start line, she said: "I’ve had 32 treatments of Enhertu and still going strong, as you’ll see today."

With support from BCNA, including our Lived Experience Reference Group made up of people living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, Sarah has campaigned hard to raise awareness of the financial burden facing families like hers.

BCNA's advocacy work

Read about our previous advocacy efforts on this topic.

News and media

30 April 2024: Life prolonging breast cancer drug recommended for PBS subsidy

26 Apr 2024: Enhertu recommended for PBS subsidy, but it is not time to celebrate

23 Aug 2023: BCNA celebrates recent PBAC decisions

Advocacy

Time to Count People with Metastatic Breast Cancer - A Way Forward: the challenges, enablers and a path forward to the routine collection of stage and recurrence data.

Our policy and advocacy priorities, including access to new drugs and treatment