Newborn bloodspot screening update – Open call launch

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has launched an ‘open call’ as part of the first stage of the newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) decision-making pathway.  

Open call launch
The first open call is launching today, on 14 October and will close on 14 January 2026.  

More information is available on our website, including: 

• the condition identification form  

• a frequently asked questions document, 

• an animated video that provides further information on the process. 

How the open call process will work
Members of the public - including consumers, family members, researchers, clinicians and other experts -  can identify conditions for consideration that align with the decision-making criteria in the NBS National Policy Framework. Conditions can be put forward by completing the condition identification form. 

After a condition is identified for consideration, it will be assessed for suitability. Decisions on suitability will be made collectively by all governments in Australia, based on the NBS decision-making criteria, which include:  

• the condition is a serious health problem and benefits from early diagnosis in the newborn period  

• there is a suitable test available, which is socially and ethically acceptable^.  

• there is an acceptable and effective intervention or treatment available.  

Suitable conditions will progress to the next stage in the decision-making pathway. Conditions with low alignment to the criteria will not be included in NBS programs at this time. 

Should you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected].