Updates to the RACGP Infection prevention and control guidelines

The updates align with Australian Standard AS 5369 – Reprocessing of reusable medical devices and other devices in health and non-health related facilities. These updates are necessary so that general practice aligns with nationally consistent, evidence‑based reprocessing standards, addressing changes in national expectations and reducing infection risk while supporting safe, high‑quality care.

The updated reprocessing section has been published within the current IPC Guidelines this week.

While AS 5369 reflects the national benchmark across healthcare, the RACGP has carefully contextualised the requirements for general practice so they remain practical, proportionate and achievable. These changes will have varying impacts across practices, depending on the type of procedures they perform and whether they currently reprocess reusable medical devices onsite.

What has been updated and why?

The reprocessing section of the IPC Guidelines has been updated to strengthen patient safety, create national consistency, and provide accreditation clarity. Key updates include: 

• introduction of a structured, risk‑based framework for reprocessing
• mandatory use of a washer–disinfector for pre‑cleaning (manual cleaning alone is no longer sufficient unless specified by the device manufacturer)
• clearer requirements for training and competency of staff involved in reprocessing
• defined timeframes for initial treatment (ideally within 1 hour, no later than 4 hours)
• strengthened expectations for traceability, validation and equipment monitoring
• updated guidance for outsourcing, which now must be to accredited facilities, hospitals or accredited practices.

These updates support consistent, safe reprocessing practices across primary care and reduce variation that can lead to patient harm. They also align general practice with national safety expectations and the upcoming sixth edition of the Standards for general practices.

What this means for your practice

Practices that reprocess reusable medical devices onsite may be affected by these updates. While many practices may already meet some requirements, others may need to:

• review and update reprocessing workflows
• modify or segregate reprocessing areas
• invest in a washer-disinfector or additional equipment
• update staff training and competency documentation
• revise outsourcing arrangements where applicable.

A transition period until 1 January 2028 will give practices time to plan, assess costs and implement changes before these requirements become mandatory for accreditation.

The RACGP has published an FAQ resource and video introducing new content. Ongoing support from the RACGP standards team is also available.