Patients welcome new

Parkinson’s treatment PBS listing 

Australians living with Parkinson’s are welcoming the Federal Government’s listing today of a new Parkinson’s treatment on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

The new treatment, VYALEV® (foslevodopa with foscarbidopa), is administered under the skin via a 24-hour infusion and is now available under the PBS, following a tireless campaign from advocacy group Parkinson’s Australia.

The treatment helps restore dopamine levels in the brain to reduce on and off periods that can persist for patients under traditional oral therapies. It gained Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval last year but was unaffordable for most patients.

Olivia Nassaris, CEO of Parkinson’s Australia, said the decision reflects the important role the community has in shaping PBS priorities:

“Parkinson’s Australia has advocated for access to VYALEV® in Australia to ensure people living with advanced Parkinson’s have a wider choice of treatments that can help improve daily living,” she said.

“Throughout this process, consumer voices have been vital in helping decision makers understand the impacts of living with Parkinson’s. We are delighted the Australian Government has made this treatment affordable and available for the Parkinson’s community.”

From Couch to Catwalk: Paula’s Story

After living with Parkinson’s for over 30 years, Paula Argy thought her mobility and independence were gone for good. She had been housebound for five years — until she participated in the clinical trial for VYALEV®.

Now, she’s walking tall — and even made it to the Australian Fashion Week catwalk.

“This has given me another chance at life after living with Parkinson’s for more than 30 years,” Paula said. “After being housebound for five years, I’ve regained my mobility and independence. I hope the listing of this treatment will provide other Australians the same chance to regain their quality of life.”

Her story is a powerful reminder of what access to innovative treatment can mean. Hear her tell her story in the YouTube video.

Craig’s Story: Fighting Forward

For Craig Gillespie, living with Young Onset Parkinson’s means navigating unpredictable “on and off” periods, where oral medications no longer provide consistent relief.

Now, with access to VYALEV®, Craig sees a future with more stability, more time with family, and more years in the workforce.

“Oral medications have begun to lose their efficacy for me,” Craig said. “I have lots of on and off periods. This new treatment will mean I can be a better dad, a better husband and stay in the workforce longer.”

Craig’s story highlights why choice in treatment matters... especially for younger Australians living with Parkinson’s. Hear him tell his story in the YouTube video.

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