Moderna’s mRNA vaccines to be exempted from advisory committee scrutiny under $2bn Morrison-era deal

Exclusive: Critics say exemption ‘deeply concerning’ and risks creating separate assessment systems

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

Australians will be offered respiratory vaccines from next year without the usual assessment that ensures they are the most effective available at the best possible price, under the confidential $2bn onshore manufacturing deal the Morrison government struck with Moderna.

The agreement exempts Moderna’s mRNA vaccines from assessment by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, a government memorandum has revealed.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email