Conference Program

The MedTech Conference covers a broad range of topics affecting MedTech and the wider Healthcare community. Areas of reimbursement, regulatory, procurement, industry development and more are featured in this year's program. 

Wednesday, 23 October 2024

8:15am

Registration opens

Exhibition

8.45am - 9.05am

Plenary Room

Introduction

Warren Bingham is a distinguished leader in the medical devices, biotechnology, and digital health sectors with over 30 years of experience. As the Founder and Executive Chairman of MedTech International, Global Vice President of ARIA Research, Chairman of OmnisOva and Agscent and Board Member of MTAA, Warren has consistently driven innovation and success in the industry. Warren’s career highlights include establishing the Australian subsidiary of Given Imaging Ltd in 2001, pioneering PillCam® technology, and successfully integrating Capsule Endoscopy into Australia’s Medicare Benefits Scheme in 2004. His leadership significantly contributed to Given Imaging from startup to a multinational company with revenues exceeding $250 million, culminating in its acquisition by Covidien for approximately $1 billion in 2014. Recognised for his contributions, Warren received the prestigious MTAA Outstanding Achievement Award in 2021 and was acknowledged by AusBiotech for his ‘Outstanding Contribution to AusMedtech’ in 2018. He is also deeply committed to philanthropy, serving as an Ambassador for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout and Diabetes Australia, and contributing to various healthcare initiatives. Warren’s expertise in global strategic execution, commercialisation, and board leadership, combined with his passion for improving patient outcomes, makes him a valuable voice in discussions on the future of healthcare technology and data management.

Welcome to Country

Mr Allan Murray is a descendant of the Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi nation where his parents belong too. His father is a stolen generation and he comes from the Cummunga village on the Murray River. His mother is from north west of NSW, a little town ship called Walgett which is in the heart of the Kamilaroi nation. Allan has held both the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson role of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council and has been a member of the Land Council for more than 15 years. Mr Murray is backed by a solid board who are task to bring change, strive for economic and self determination to represent 17,000 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people who reside in the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council boundaries. He has several qualifications in business management and human resources practices. And hope to go forward in providing leadership to the members, more so to assist our youth and continue the recognition of our elders who are the gate keepers of knowledge, respect and wisdom.

Welcome & Official Opening

Ian Burgess is the CEO of the Medical Technology Association of Australia. Ian is a long-term leader in the Australian healthcare space having previously held CEO positions at the Australian Dental Association, Ortho Group Pty Limited and Australian Orthopaedic Association Limited.Ian is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a non-executive director of Red Nose Ltd and SIDS and Kids (ACT) Ltd.   

9.05am - 9.55am

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Sharing his inspiring and incredible story of humanity while confronted by the inequalities faced when accessing healthcare, Dr Daniel Nour brought to life a concept of free healthcare to the streets of society’s most vulnerable people with Street Side Medics.

Street Side Medics is a not-for-profit, GP-led mobile medical service for people experiencing homelessness. Currently, it is supported by more than 600 volunteers and ten clinics across the state. They treat many communicable and non-communicable illnesses, deal with neglected medical needs, and detect conditions that would otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Working as a full-time doctor at Royal North Shore Hospital, Dr Nour identified a gap in accessing quality healthcare. At the age of 26, he led the first mobile medical clinic, bringing volunteer GPs, trainee doctors and allied health professionals to treat Sydney siders experiencing homelessness, some of whom may not have seen a doctor for a decade or longer.

Street Side Medics has changed the lives of thousands of patients in New South Wales since it started. Dr Daniel Nour’s selfless work in creating the homeless medical service was recognised in 2022 as The Young Australian of the Year and The New South Wales Young Australian of the Year.

This is an incredible Australian story on how one socially conscious doctor, driven by the inequalities in accessing quality healthcare, is making a difference in the lives of many Australians.

Founder of Street Side Medics & NSW Young Australian of the Year 2022.

Identifying a gap in the healthcare of vulnerable people in New South Wales, Dr Daniel Nour founded Street Side Medics in August 2020. It’s a not-for-profit, GP-led mobile medical service for people experiencing homelessness.

With 600 volunteers, and ten clinics across New South Wales, Street Side Medics has changed the lives of more than thousands of patients. It has treated many communicable and non-communicable illnesses, dealt with neglected medical needs, and detected conditions that would otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Despite working full time at Royal North Shore Hospital, Daniel has rarely missed a clinic across the sites since Street Side Medics launched. He volunteers his afternoons to ensure the clinics are run smoothly and patients are receiving the care they deserve.

With his leadership and social consciousness, Daniel is committed to making a real difference to the lives of many Australians. He’s also making significant improvements to society.

Daniel’s dedication to serving the community, his commitment to Street Side Medics while working full time at Royal North Shore Hospital and his efforts to not miss a clinic across the sites demonstrates his strong sense of responsibility and passion for providing healthcare to those in need.

He volunteers his afternoons to ensure the clinics are run smoothly and patients are receiving the care they deserve.

10:00am - 10:40am

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Address followed by Q&A with MTAA CEO, Ian Burgess

Ian Burgess is the CEO of the Medical Technology Association of Australia. Ian is a long-term leader in the Australian healthcare space having previously held CEO positions at the Australian Dental Association, Ortho Group Pty Limited and Australian Orthopaedic Association Limited.Ian is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a non-executive director of Red Nose Ltd and SIDS and Kids (ACT) Ltd.   

10.45am - 11.30am

Morning Tea

Exhibition

11:35am - 12:20pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Join us for a session where regulation meets AI MedTech innovation, exploring the future of medical device compliance. Discover how innovators can balance cutting-edge technology with evolving regulatory frameworks to ensure optimal outcomes for patients and the healthcare system.

Tracey Duffy is the First Assistant Secretary of the Medical Devices and Product Quality Division in the Health Products Regulation Group in the Commonwealth Department of Health. The Health Products Regulation Group comprises the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Office of Drug Control. Her current responsibilities include medical device regulation, Good Manufacturing Practice medicine inspections and Laboratory testing. Tracey has held several leadership roles within the Department of Health and private sector experience including consultant health related advisory roles.

11:35am - 12:20pm

Concurrent Room

#MTAAConcurrent

This panel session will explore the latest developments in the National One Stop Shop (NOSS) implementation, as well as workforce development and emerging decentralised clinical trials/tele-trials activities. It will pose questions regarding the impact of increasing requirements for reimbursement approval to adopt alternative study designs that enable comparative performance analysis and journal publications of relevant findings.

12:25pm - 1:10pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Discussion about the current management of the Prescribed List, future reforms and what industry should know.

12:25pm - 1:10pm

Concurrent Room

#MTAAConcurrent

This panel session will discuss innovations coming down the pipeline for the neurostimulation industry. Will brain-computer interfaces (BCI) live up to the promise or struggle to find clinical significance? Are there other bottlenecks in technology and what opportunities await new entrepreneurs?

1:10pm - 2:10pm

Lunch

Exhibition

2:10pm - 3:05pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

AI, deep brain stimulation, Augmented Reality and other groundbreaking digital technologies, and the skills required to revolutionise the future of healthcare. How can the multiple stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem collaborate for improved patient access to care?

Warren Bingham is a distinguished leader in the medical devices, biotechnology, and digital health sectors with over 30 years of experience. As the Founder and Executive Chairman of MedTech International, Global Vice President of ARIA Research, Chairman of OmnisOva and Agscent and Board Member of MTAA, Warren has consistently driven innovation and success in the industry. Warren’s career highlights include establishing the Australian subsidiary of Given Imaging Ltd in 2001, pioneering PillCam® technology, and successfully integrating Capsule Endoscopy into Australia’s Medicare Benefits Scheme in 2004. His leadership significantly contributed to Given Imaging from startup to a multinational company with revenues exceeding $250 million, culminating in its acquisition by Covidien for approximately $1 billion in 2014. Recognised for his contributions, Warren received the prestigious MTAA Outstanding Achievement Award in 2021 and was acknowledged by AusBiotech for his ‘Outstanding Contribution to AusMedtech’ in 2018. He is also deeply committed to philanthropy, serving as an Ambassador for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout and Diabetes Australia, and contributing to various healthcare initiatives. Warren’s expertise in global strategic execution, commercialisation, and board leadership, combined with his passion for improving patient outcomes, makes him a valuable voice in discussions on the future of healthcare technology and data management.

2:10pm - 3:05pm

Concurrent Room

#MTAAConcurrent

The evidence requirements published in the draft Prescribed List Guide in December 2023 set a high bar even for devices that are only seeking to list in the same group and the same benefit on the PL. The industry is concerned that the requirements are very difficult to meet and are much higher hurdles that in comparable overseas jurisdictions. What drives the requests by ECAGs and MDHTAC for these evidence requirements? What risks are they trying to mitigate? How do they fit with the efficacy and safety assessments of the TGA? This session will discuss these issues and more with chairs of key committees and the Department.

3:05pm - 3:35pm

Afternoon Tea

Exhibition

3:35pm - 4:15pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Hear the latest about the regulatory landscape as MTAA’s Jas Baveja interviews Tony Lawler from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

4:15pm - 5:05pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

This session aims to share the value of health data and discuss the current health data governance challenges regarding privacy and cyber security. How to ensure a balance between data privacy & security with access for innovation and development.

5:05pm - 5:10pm

Plenary Room

Closing Remarks

5:15pm – 7:15pm

Welcome Reception | Pre-dinner Drinks

Exhibition

Taking place in the Exhibition space, this session will be an entertaining and insightful look into financing the MedTech commercialisation journey. From early-stage angel investment, venture capital and private equity, to ASX listing and potential acquisition, this hypothetical session will explore the critical early stages to help these startups access funding to grow, consolidate and succeed in the market. Delegates can enjoy this session during pre-dinner drinks.

7:15pm - Late

MTAA MedTech Industry Awards Dinner

7:15pm - Late

MedTech Evening Event

This is the MTAA MedTech Industry’s night of nights! Enjoy a relaxed and entertaining evening hosted by Claire Hooper, whilst celebrating and acknowledging the incredible individuals, companies and technology of our industry.

Claire Hooper  had a busy first few years in comedy, as a Raw Comedy national finalist in 2004, a coveted spot on the Melbourne Comedy Festival’s Comedy Zone in 2005, and a Best Newcomer Nomination in 2006.

For four years Claire shared a set with Paul McDermott and Mikey Robbins on the iconic comedy show Good News Week as a team captain.

Claire hosted 5 seasons The Great Australian Bake Off for Foxtel’s LifeStyle Channel alongside the seriously funny Mel Buttle, and has been seen on Channel Ten’s The Project , ABC’s The Weekly, Question Everything and Spicks & Specks, SBS’ Celebrity Letters & Numbers and Channel Ten’s Would I Lie To You?

Claire is an accomplished podcaster, with 3 seasons of ABC’s acclaimed show The Pineapple Project under her belt, plus her own podcast “I’m the Worst with Claire Hooper” where she delves into the darkest secrets of her comedy mates.

Claire is also a children’s book author, a comedy director and (though it’s unlikely to be relevant) a qualified garden designer.

Her latest stand up comedy show So Proud recently toured the country, and her Melbourne Comedy Festival season won her the Piece of Wood Award.

For four years Claire shared a set with Paul McDermott and Mikey Robbins on the iconic comedy show Good News Week as a team captain.

Claire hosted 5 seasons The Great Australian Bake Off for Foxtel’s LifeStyle Channel alongside the seriously funny Mel Buttle, and has been seen on Channel Ten’s The Project , ABC’s The Weekly, Question Everything and Spicks & Specks, SBS’ Celebrity Letters & Numbers and Channel Ten’s Would I Lie To You?

Claire is an accomplished podcaster, with 3 seasons of ABC’s acclaimed show The Pineapple Project under her belt, plus her own podcast “I’m the Worst with Claire Hooper” where she delves into the darkest secrets of her comedy mates.

Claire is also a children’s book author, a comedy director and (though it’s unlikely to be relevant) a qualified garden designer.

Her latest stand up comedy show So Proud recently toured the country, and her Melbourne Comedy Festival season won her the Piece of Wood Award.

Thursday, 24 October 2024

8:00am

Registration opens

8:30am - 8:40am

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Welcome

Warren Bingham is a distinguished leader in the medical devices, biotechnology, and digital health sectors with over 30 years of experience. As the Founder and Executive Chairman of MedTech International, Global Vice President of ARIA Research, Chairman of OmnisOva and Agscent and Board Member of MTAA, Warren has consistently driven innovation and success in the industry. Warren’s career highlights include establishing the Australian subsidiary of Given Imaging Ltd in 2001, pioneering PillCam® technology, and successfully integrating Capsule Endoscopy into Australia’s Medicare Benefits Scheme in 2004. His leadership significantly contributed to Given Imaging from startup to a multinational company with revenues exceeding $250 million, culminating in its acquisition by Covidien for approximately $1 billion in 2014. Recognised for his contributions, Warren received the prestigious MTAA Outstanding Achievement Award in 2021 and was acknowledged by AusBiotech for his ‘Outstanding Contribution to AusMedtech’ in 2018. He is also deeply committed to philanthropy, serving as an Ambassador for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout and Diabetes Australia, and contributing to various healthcare initiatives. Warren’s expertise in global strategic execution, commercialisation, and board leadership, combined with his passion for improving patient outcomes, makes him a valuable voice in discussions on the future of healthcare technology and data management.

8:40am - 9:25am

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

9:30am - 9:55am

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Patient advocacy plays a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare. Our distinguished speakers will share personal stories, highlight successful advocacy initiatives, and explore strategies for amplifying patient voices. Join us to learn how empowered patients can drive positive change, improve healthcare outcomes, and foster a more patient-centered healthcare system.

10:00am - 10:50am

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

With the growing awareness of the environmental damage and health risks of micro plastics, this panel session explores opportunities to reduce and reuse waste in the medical product sector – from alternative raw materials behind plastics to repurposing single use plastics devices.

10:50am - 11:20am

Morning Tea

Exhibition

11:25am - 12:10pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

Value Based Procurement is an approach to delivering high quality and sustainable healthcare by placing patient outcomes at the certain of purchasing decisions. However, with the environmental impacts of healthcare becoming an area of proposed reform in Australia, Value Based Procurement can play a role on supporting greener healthcare. This session will unpack the current application of VBP and its increasing ability to impact on environmental outcomes in healthcare. Value Based Procurement is an approach to delivering high quality and sustainable healthcare by placing patient outcomes at the certain of purchasing decisions. However, with the environmental impacts of healthcare becoming an area of proposed reform in Australia, Value Based Procurement can play a role on supporting greener healthcare. This session will unpack the current application of VBP and its increasing ability to impact on environmental outcomes in healthcare.

11:25am - 12:10pm

Concurrent Room

#MTAAConcurrent

Join Kerry Wilson a gender equality advocate and change maker as we explore: What if the key to unlocking your company’s full potential lies in addressing gender disparities in the workplace? Join us as we explore the transformative power of applying a gender lens and the practical steps you can take to drive organisational excellence.

12:20pm - 1:05pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

During the pandemic, there was an understanding of how critical healthcare supply chains were and the necessity to forward plan for a range of scenarios. As the world emerges from the pandemic, the MedTech industry is still faced with a range of interesting challenges that test the resilience of supply chains. How do suppliers, logistics providers and hospital procurement work together to navigate the current environment?

12:20pm - 1:05pm

Concurrent Room

#MTAAConcurrent

Susan is the founding director of The Gaimaragal Group, with her rich Woolwonga and Gurindji heritage and extensive experience in community consultation and empowerment, Susan will discuss the importance of facilitating the voices of Elders, empowering youth, and fostering cultural translation. Learn how her lived experiences as part of the Stolen Generations shaped her work in cultural competency and social planning, discover ways to bring individuals and communities together through understanding and respect.

1:05pm - 2:05pm

Lunch

Exhibition

2:05pm - 2:50pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

While Australia has made major strides integrating digital technology into healthcare, there are still a lot of potential gains for the Government to unlock. Industry and Government need to ask “Is digital technology genuinely helping to improve health care access and are the benefits making its way to patients? What measures are in place to justify its effectiveness of digital technology integration into healthcare? And is Government effectively harnessing the power of AI and Data?” Answering these questions from a Government and Industry perspective, this 45-minute session will discuss how we can better leverage digital technology in our healthcare system.

The Productivity Commissioner will discuss recent Productivity Commission reports: Advances in Managing Healthcare Productivity; and Leveraging Digital Tech in Healthcare.

2:55pm - 3:55pm

Plenary Room

#MTAAPlenary

What are the solutions to its current funding challenges, and what impact could these reforms have on device procurement and use?

3:55pm - 4:00pm

Plenary Room

Closing Remarks

4:00pm - 5:30pm

Closing Reception in the Cockle Bay Foyer