Paterson MP Bob Baldwin has announced Abraxane will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from November 1.

“Sadly, the rates of pancreatic cancer have increased significantly over the last 10 years, with the majority of new pancreatic cancer cases diagnosed in people aged 60 years and over,” Mr Baldwin said.

“We all know someone who has been affected by cancer.  This new subsidised drug will ease the financial toll that this disease places on families.”

Pancreatic cancer is highly aggressive with few treatment options.

The government has committed more than $92 million over four years to subsidise Abraxane on the PBS.

Health Minister Peter Dutton said more than 1500 patients would benefit each year from the PBS listing.

“This listing provides patients with a new treatment option that has demonstrated an increase in overall survival by around two months, compared to other treatments,” Mr Dutton said.

Without the PBS listing, patients would face an average cost of $16,000 for a course of treatment, at an average cost of $1300 per prescription.

Once listed on the PBS, a script will cost a concessional patient only $6.

“This demonstrates that, when the pharmaceutical companies and government work closely together, important medicines can be made available quickly and at affordable prices,” Mr Baldwin said.