In response to growing concerns over errors in IVF clinics, Australia's health ministers have agreed to create a national accreditation body to oversee the fertility industry.

This decision follows a review initiated on June 13, 2025, which aims to determine the best model for independent accreditation and potentially replace state-based regulators with a national entity.

FSANZ has expressed support for this review, advocating for national regulation to enhance clarity and accountability in the oversight of assisted reproductive technology.

Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas criticized the current self-accreditation system as ineffective, arguing that providers should not be responsible for their own accreditation.

The urgency for reform was underscored by recent incidents at Monash IVF, which led to the resignation of CEO Michael Knaap and an apology from acting CEO Malik Jainudeen to affected patients.

Thomas noted that the errors at Monash IVF might reflect broader issues within the sector, suggesting that current oversight mechanisms fail to address the full scope of patient problems.

Monash IVF has faced serious consequences, including a $56 million settlement related to a class action involving 700 families due to a failed genetic-testing program.

While there is a consensus among health ministers about the need for independent oversight, the specific approach will depend on the findings of the ongoing three-month review.

Industry leaders, such as Genea's CEO and No.1 Fertility's medical director, have welcomed the government's push for national regulation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards and patient trust.

The current oversight is managed by the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee, established by FSANZ, which has faced criticism for its self-governing nature.

Recent high-profile errors at Monash IVF, including a woman being implanted with the wrong embryo and another case where a woman gave birth to a stranger's baby, have highlighted the urgent need for reform.

Options under consideration for the new regulatory framework include standardizing regulations across states, replacing state regulators with a national body, and extending registration requirements to embryologists and scientists.