Australians fighting the incurable lung disease cystic fibrosis will get access to a drug which can extend lives by decades.
The drug, Orkambi, was due to be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from October 1 but manufacturer Vertex has agreed to provide early access for patients.
There are 1000 Australians above the age of 12 who will be eligible, along with 300 children aged between six and 11.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcement alongside Health Minister Greg Hunt at a childcare centre in Sydney on Sunday.
"We're standing together with those who are suffering from cystic fibrosis," Mr Morrison told reporters.
"Today we've said we're with you because we've been able to list this very important drug which is going to change their lives."
Without the government subsidy, the treatment ordinarily costs $250,000 a year.
In Australia, one in every 25,000 babies is born with cystic fibrosis, which affects the lungs and digestive system.
