GPs may face stricter rules on prescribing repeat antibiotics under radical plans being considered by the Federal Government.

According to the Australian newspaper the Department of Health is looking at removing doctors’ ability to issue repeat antibiotic scripts in a bid to tackle rising rates of antimicrobial resistance in the community and aged care homes.

The PBAC is expected to consider a report on the issue later this year.

The proposal comes in the wake of a consultation paper called Australia’s Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy – 2020 and Beyond, co-authored by the health department and the Department of Agriculture.