The proposal would expand the number of conditions screened for in the bloodspot screening of all newborn babies (existing screening ranges between 25 to 28 conditions depending on the state and territory).

Newborn Bloodspot Screening programs would continue to be funded under the National Health Reform Agreement (NHRA) whereby the Australian Government contributes 45% of the growth in costs of all public hospital services.

The proposal would also provide funding to support upgrades to screening facilities.

Screening would be expanded to 80 conditions in total, with a start date of 1 July 2022.