National Pharmaceutical Services Association (NPSA)

On 6 September 2021, the National Pharmaceutical Services Association (the NPSA) lodged an application for re-authorisation on behalf of itself, its members and Community Service Obligation Distributors (the Participants) to enable them to have discussions, enter into or give effect to arrangements, or engage in conduct for the purpose of facilitating the supply of, and access to, medicines and pharmacy products. In addition, the NPSA has sought authorisation to allow for collective bargaining by the NPSA on behalf of its members in relation to possible vaccine distribution arrangements with the Government.

On 10 September 2021, the ACCC granted interim authorisation to allow the Conduct to continue while the ACCC completes its assessment of the application for authorisation, as well as to allow for collective bargaining by the NPSA on behalf of its members in relation to possible vaccine distribution arrangements with the Government.

On 9 December 2021, the ACCC issued a draft determination in respect to the application for authorisation proposing to grant authorisation with a condition until 28 February 2023.

On 17 February 2022, the ACCC issued a determination granting authorisation, with a reporting condition, until 28 February 2023. The final determination is available under the Decisions heading below.