Time is running out for general practices to ensure their protocols and practices for accessing My Health Record comply with updates introduced by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (DHDA).
The new rules came into force in April 2026, the first update for a decade. Practices have until 30 September 2026 to ensure compliance.
The changes tighten, modernise and clarify what practices need to have in place, particularly concerning security, record-keeping and system standards.
Updated guidance now available
The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) has updated its My Health Record participation obligations webpage with information and guidance to help participants understand and meet their obligations under the 2026 rules. The update for establishing and maintaining a compliant security and access policy.
In collaboration with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), the ADHA is also developing a My Health Record security and access policy template for health care provider organisations. This will help participants meet the new obligations.
Key resources
- Implementing My Health Record in your healthcare organisation | AHDA
- My Health Records legislative instruments FAQs | DHDA
- My Health Records legislative instruments FAQs (.pdf) | DHDA
- Interoperability requirements and updates | ADHA
- My Health Record legislation and governance | ADHA
- My Health Record: what’s new in 2026 | Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (webinar)
Practice templates
Templates to manage your transition are available. See, for example, these from Medical Business Services:
- My Health Record security and access policy (.docx)
- My Health Record user access register (.docx)
- My Health Record staff training register (.docx)
- My Health Record data breach and incident response procedure (.docx)
- My Health Record share by default procedure (.docx)
- My Health Record annual compliance review checklist (.docx)
If you have any further questions, our Primary Health Care Improvement Team is here to help you. You can Request a Visit, call us on (03) 9347 1188 or email primarycare@nwmphn.org.au for support.
