Doing Business in Australia: Healthcare and MedTech Sector Offers Strong Pathways for Exporters
Introduction
Australia’s healthcare and medical technology (medtech) sector is among the most advanced and innovation-driven in the Asia-Pacific region. With a growing, ageing population, rising demand for digital health solutions, and government investment in public-private R&D, the country offers fertile ground for international exporters of medical devices, diagnostics, digital health platforms, and health-focused consumer products.
For U.S., UK, and European medtech companies looking to expand globally, Australia is not only an attractive standalone market but also a strategic launchpad into the wider Indo-Pacific.
Why Australia’s Healthcare Sector Matters
Australia’s healthcare system is a hybrid of universal public coverage (Medicare) and private health insurance, creating strong demand for both frontline hospital solutions and high-end private care innovation. As of 2024:
Healthcare spending exceeds A$100 billion annually, and is projected to grow at 5–6% per year.
Medical technology imports account for the majority of devices used in both public and private systems.
Digital health is a key growth area, with telehealth adoption, e-prescriptions, and AI diagnostics gaining widespread traction post-COVID.
Additionally, Australia’s reputation for clinical research, regulatory integrity, and high per capita health spending makes it a low-risk, high-value target for expansion.
Key Areas of Opportunity
Digital Health and Remote Monitoring
Post-pandemic acceleration of telehealth has opened opportunities for exporters offering remote patient monitoring, digital diagnostics, chronic disease management apps, and secure data sharing platforms.Medical Devices and Diagnostics
The demand for advanced imaging tools, wearable technologies, surgical equipment, and smart diagnostics is growing—particularly in aged care, orthopaedics, and cardiology.Aged Care Innovation
With over 15% of Australians now aged 65+, aged care is under national reform. Solutions focused on automation, mobility, falls prevention, and AI-enhanced support systems are in high demand.Hospital Infrastructure and Health IT
The public hospital sector is upgrading legacy systems and seeking integrated platforms for patient management, AI triage, cybersecurity, and workflow optimisation.
Regulatory Landscape
To enter the Australian market, medtech exporters must comply with Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulations—Australia’s equivalent of the FDA. While the system is rigorous, it is harmonised with international frameworks such as the EU’s MDR and IMDRF guidelines, making approval and cross-market entry relatively streamlined.
Foley assists companies in understanding these requirements and provides local introductions to regulatory consultants, importers, and distributors.
Market Access and Distribution
Australia’s market is primarily accessed via:
Specialist importers and medical device distributors
Tender processes with public hospital groups
Private hospital networks and aged care providers
Strategic partnerships with digital health platforms or insurers
Working with an in-market partner is essential for navigating procurement cycles, securing contracts, and adapting product positioning to local health priorities.
Why Foley?
Foley has over 20 years’ experience supporting international healthcare and medtech companies into the Australian market. From digital startups to surgical hardware providers, we have delivered:
In-market research and competitor analysis
Targeted B2B meeting programs
Introductions to hospital buyers, regulators, and health-tech clusters
Support at industry expos such as Australasian MedTech Forum, Digital Health Summit, and Australian Healthcare Week
Conclusion
Australia’s healthcare and medtech sectors offer dynamic, scalable opportunities for international businesses with solutions that improve patient outcomes, digitise care, or support healthy ageing. With an experienced local partner like Foley, you’ll avoid common missteps and accelerate commercial traction.
