PBS Update: Expanded Access to Nivolumab and Ipilimumab

There is important news for Australians living with advanced or metastatic cancers, including melanoma. From 1 March 2026, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) has introduced changes that expand and streamline access to the immunotherapies nivolumab and ipilimumab. 

These two treatments, often used together, are critical options for many people navigating complex cancer diagnoses. The new PBS structure brings together multiple previous item codes into one simplified listing, reducing administrative hurdles and supporting faster, clearer pathways to care. 

What this Means for People with Melanoma

For those diagnosed with unresectable Stage III or Stage IV melanoma, nivolumab and ipilimumab remain key therapies in modern cancer care. 

The PBS changes will make it easier for clinicians to prescribe, monitor, and continue treatment—an important improvement during an already challenging time. 

The new broad listing replaces a number of previous PBS items across several cancer types, including: 

• Unresectable Stage III or Stage IV malignant melanoma 

• Advanced or metastatic nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) 

• Stage IV renal cell carcinoma (clear cell variant) 

• Recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma 

• Advanced or metastatic gastrooesophageal cancers 

• Unresectable or metastatic urothelial carcinoma 

This streamlined approach means greater consistency across cancer indications and less paperwork for clinicians—helping patients start or continue treatment without unnecessary delays. 

What Patients Need to Know

Some individual PBS item codes have been removed and are not transitioning to a ‘Supply Only’ status. This means: 

• Prescriptions for affected indications will need to be rewritten to ensure treatment continues under the updated PBS listing. 

Your care team is aware of these changes and will guide you through anything needed. 

Benefits for Patients at a Glance

• Easier access to nivolumab and ipilimumab 

• Less administrative delay in prescribing 

• Clearer and more consistent PBS pathways 

• Better support for timely treatment decisions 

• Reduced complexity across multiple cancer indications 

Together, these improvements aim to make your care journey smoother and more supported. 

Do I Need to do Anything?

Right now, you do not need to take any action. 

Your healthcare team will: 

1. Review your current treatment plan 
2. Issue a new PBS prescription after 1 March 2026 
3. Ensure your treatment continues as scheduled 

If anything needs to change, your care team will talk it through with you. 

Where to Find More Information

From 1 March 2026, the updated PBS criteria will be available on the PBS website. 

If you have questions about how these changes may affect your treatment, you can speak with: 

• Your oncologist or cancer specialist 

• Your cancer care coordinator 

• Your pharmacist 

If you or a loved one is affected by Melanoma and needs support, Melanoma Patients Australia provides a wide range of free services including: 

• National Melanoma Support Line – 1800 884 450 – a confidential guidance from trained support staff. 

• Nurse Counselling – free sessions with a melanoma nurse counsellor. 

• Peer-to-Peer Support Programs – community connection no matter where you live 

• Melanoma Education Resources – trusted information for patients, carers, and families 

Like this blog? Head to Melanoma Patients Australia News & Events to read more.