The Albanese Government is investing $251.7 million, with $91.1 million already spent on the interim agency.

It will launch on 1 January 2026, bringing Australia’s disease-control powers under a single Director-General with sweeping data authority.

The CDC can withhold FOI material if disclosure risks “physical harm, social stigma, bullying, or vilification.”

Health Minister Mark Butler described it as Australia’s “single trusted source” of health advice and data.

The bill passed 34–22, backed by Labor, Greens and Independents.

Liberals, Nationals, One Nation, Ralph Babet and Jacinta Price opposed it.