Changes to PBS indications for nivolumab and ipilimumab
Page last updated: 1 March 2026
From 1 March 2026, the PBS listing for nivolumab and ipilimumab will be expanded to enable broader access for the treatment of advanced or metastatic cancers. The broad listing for nivolumab and ipilimumab will replace the PBS listing item codes for the following indications:
- Unresectable Stage III or Stage IV malignant melanoma
- Locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer
- Stage IV clear cell variant renal cell carcinoma (RCC)
- Recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, pharynx or larynx
- Unresectable Stage III or Stage IV malignant melanoma
- Stage IV (metastatic) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Advanced or metastatic gastro-oesophageal cancers
- Unresectable or metastatic urothelial carcinoma.
This means that some of the nivolumab and ipilimumab items will be removed from the PBS without ‘Supply Only’ arrangements. PBS prescriptions for the affected indications will need to be rewritten from 1 March 2026 for dispensing and subsidy under the PBS to occur.
The attached factsheet (PDF 140KB) - (Word 92KB) provides further information for patients.
