Value Review,available in Australia

The availability of semaglutide in Australia has been a topic of significant interest, particularly with the introduction of Wegovy for weight management and Ozempic for type 2 diabetes. Understanding the current and future availability of these medications, along with their subsidisation status, is crucial for Australians seeking treatment. While there have been periods of shortage and varying approval timelines, a clearer picture is emerging regarding when semaglutide will be more broadly accessible and affordable.

The Current Landscape of Semaglutide in Australia

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Ozempic has been available in Australia for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, with its listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) confirmed from 1 July. This means Ozempic will become a more accessible treatment option for eligible individuals managing their diabetes.

For weight management, Wegovy, which contains the same semaglutide compound, is now available in Australia as of August 2024. Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company behind these medications, launched Wegovy on a private prescription basis. Initially, Wegovy is available in Australia through telehealth clinics and compounding pharmacies, as well as being prescribed by GPs. The cost for a private prescription is estimated to range from $260 to $460, depending on the specific dosage and pharmacy.

However, it's important to note that Ozempic is only approved for the treatment of diabetes in Australia. Its off-label prescribing for weight loss has contributed to supply issues. Wegovy, on the other hand, is specifically indicated for weight loss and is now available for this purpose.

Future Availability and PBS Listing for Wegovy

The significant question for many Australians is when Wegovy will be listed on the PBS, making it substantially more affordable. While there is currently no confirmed timeline for when Wegovy will be listed on the PBS, considerable progress has been made.

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has recommended that semaglutide (Wegovy®) be listed on the PBS for specific patient groups. In November 2025, the PBAC recommended listing semaglutide (Wegovy®) on the PBS for people with established cardiovascular disease with obesity. Furthermore, as of 11 January 2026, the cost of weight loss drug Wegovy will soon be massively subsidised for Australians with severe obesity who have had a stroke or heart attack. This indicates a strong move towards PBS subsidisation for Wegovy.

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has recommended Wegovy (semaglutide) be subsidised. This recommendation, made in March 2026, is a crucial step towards broader access. The federal government is set to act on advice to list Wegovy on the PBS, with potential subsidisation for eligible Australians expected around 19 January 2026. Diabetes Victoria CEO Glen Noonan has welcomed this development, highlighting the potential for significant cost reductions for patients.

Addressing Past and Ongoing Shortages

Semaglutide has experienced periods of unavailability in Australia. For instance, semaglutide (sold as Ozempic) was advised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to be unavailable in Australia until the end of March 2023. There were also concerns about Ozempic not being available in Australia until at least the end of 2023 due to ongoing supply issues.

Currently, while Wegovy has launched, and Ozempic supply is stabilising, it's important for patients to be aware of potential fluctuations. The semaglutide medicine shortage information indicates a potential deletion from the market by 31 December 2025, with a reduction in supply until stock is exhausted. However, this may refer to specific formulations or a broader market shift. It is generally understood that the supply of Ozempic in Australia has stabilised, and while Wegovy is now available, ongoing demand can still impact immediate access.

What You Need to Know for Access

For Australians seeking semaglutide:

* Ozempic: Available for type 2 diabetes treatment and will be listed on the PBS from 1 July.

* Wegovy: Specifically for weight loss, is now available in Australia as of August 2024 on a private prescription. It is expected to be subsidised on the PBS for eligible individuals with obesity and cardiovascular disease from early 2026.

* Compounded Semaglutide: Available through telehealth clinics and compounding pharmacies. These may offer an alternative, though it's essential to consult with a healthcare