Victorian schools will soon have more options to respond to severe allergic reactions, with the Victorian government announcing two new emergency anaphylaxis treatments will become available from 2026 alongside expanded training for school staff.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said the changes are aimed at ensuring schools are prepared to act quickly when a student experiences anaphylaxis, a rapid and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment with adrenaline.
Anaphylaxis can be triggered by foods such as nuts, dairy and seafood, as well as insect stings. Because symptoms can worsen within minutes, schools are required to have trained staff and clear procedures in place for students known to be at risk.
At present, Victorian schools rely on two injection-based adrenaline devices, Epipen and Anapen. From 2026, two additional options will be introduced: the Neffy adrenaline nasal spray, which is Australia’s first needle-free adrenaline treatment, and the Jext adrenaline autoinjector.
The introduction of the nasal spray is expected to offer an alternative for children who may feel anxious about needles, while still providing the urgent medication needed during an emergency.
To support the rollout, training workshops will be held in Term 1 and Term 2 to help school staff learn how to use all four treatment devices. The sessions will also be open to staff in the independent and Catholic school sectors, allowing a broader range of schools to prepare ahead of the new options becoming available.
Education officials say the training will help schools update their anaphylaxis policies and ensure staff remain confident in responding to emergencies.
Carroll said the goal is to give families reassurance that staff are ready to act when every second counts.
“Every parent deserves to know that when they drop their child off at a Victorian government school, they will be safe and supported,” he said.
He added that symptoms can appear suddenly and deteriorate quickly, making it essential that teachers and school staff understand how to administer emergency treatment.
Families seeking more information about the new devices and when they will be available are encouraged to speak with their GP or visit Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia. Further details on school anaphylaxis policy are available here.
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