New Adrenaline Devices Now Available in Australia – Guidance for Schools and Childcare Services

New adrenaline devices are now available in Australia, including:

• Neffy – a needle-free nasal spray

  
  

• Jext – an adrenaline auto-injector

  
  

As these devices roll out nationally, schools and education and care services may begin seeing different device types presented by students or staff.

This article explains what has changed — and what has not.

What Is Neffy?

Neffy is a needle-free adrenaline nasal spray used in the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.

It:

• Delivers adrenaline (epinephrine) via the nostril

• Does not require injection

• Is available in Australia as a Schedule 4 (prescription-only) medicine

• Has a Schedule 3 (over-the-counter) application underway

  
  

Neffy is an additional treatment option. It does not replace existing auto-injectors.

Official product information:🔗 https://www.neffy.com.au

Administration Overview – Neffy

Always follow device instructions and the individual’s ASCIA Action Plan.

General process:

1. Remove from packaging

2. Insert tip into one nostril

3. Press plunger to deliver full dose

4. Call 000 immediately

5. Monitor closely

6. Administer a second dose after 5 minutes if required and available

   
   

Relevant ASCIA guidance:

🔗 https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/anaphylaxis/adrenaline-injectors

🔗 https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/anaphylaxis/ascia-action-plan-for-anaphylaxis

What Is Jext?

Jext is an adrenaline auto-injector used in the treatment of anaphylaxis.

It:

• Is injected into the outer mid-thigh

• Contains a needle

• Has a different activation design compared to EpiPen or Anapen

• Delivers a measured dose of adrenaline

  
  

Official product information:🔗 https://www.jext.com.au 

Administration Overview – Auto-Injectors

General process:

1. Remove safety cap

2. Place against outer mid-thigh

3. Push firmly until activated

4. Hold in place as instructed

5. Call 000

6. Monitor the person

Key Differences in Administration

Comparison of anaphylaxis devices Australia – injection vs nasal spray

Feature	Auto-Injectors	Neffy
Delivery method	Injection into thigh	Nasal spray
Needle	Yes	No
Technique	Push and hold	Insert and depress plunger
Purpose	Treat anaphylaxis	Treat anaphylaxis

The emergency response principles remain consistent:

✔ Recognise anaphylaxis early

✔ Administer adrenaline promptly

✔ Call 000

✔ Monitor closely

However, the administration method differs between injection and nasal devices. Staff should follow the instructions on the device presented and the ASCIA Action Plan.

What About Requirements in South Australia?

This rollout is Australia-wide.

South Australian schools and education and care services must continue to follow:

SA Department for Education – Anaphylaxis and Allergies Procedure

🔗 https://www.education.sa.gov.au/policies/shared/anaphylaxis-and-allergies-procedure

Supporting Children and Students with Anaphylaxis

🔗 https://www.education.sa.gov.au/schools-and-educators/health-safety-and-wellbeing/specific-health-conditions-and-needs/supporting-children-and-students-anaphylaxis-and-severe-allergies

ASCIA Action Plans

🔗 https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/anaphylaxis/ascia-action-plan-for-anaphylaxis

Education and Care Services National Regulations

Services must ensure staff hold appropriate first aid qualifications such as:

• HLTAID012 – Emergency First Aid Response in an Education and Care Setting

Does This Change SA Obligations?

At this stage:

• Existing anaphylaxis management procedures remain valid

• ASCIA Action Plans remain the primary guide

• No new accredited unit is mandated in SA

• General use adrenaline devices remain required in schools

However, services may now encounter different device types.

Awareness supports confidence.

When Might an Awareness Update Be Helpful?

You may consider refresher discussion if:

• A student presents with Neffy

• A student transfers from interstate

• Staff are unfamiliar with new devices

• Your last practical refresher was some time ago

  
  

National Allergy Council recommendations support regular reinforcement of anaphylaxis training:

🔗 https://allergyaware.org.au/schools/

How Safe Hands SA Supports Education Settings

Safe Hands SA delivers:

• HLTAID012 – Emergency First Aid Response in an Education and Care Setting

• CPR updates

• Practical refresher sessions

• Contextualised discussion of emerging devices

We incorporate current device information into training to ensure staff remain confident and capable.

Because first aid in education settings is not just compliance — it is preparedness.

FAQ

Is Neffy available in Australia?

Yes. Neffy is available as a Schedule 4 (prescription-only) medicine.

Does Neffy replace EpiPen?

No. It is an additional treatment option.

Do South Australian schools need new anaphylaxis qualifications?

No additional mandated unit has been introduced in SA specific to Neffy or Jext.

Does the emergency response change?

No. The recognition and response principles remain consistent. Administration technique differs depending on the device.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of new adrenaline devices does not change the fundamentals of anaphylaxis management.

It reinforces the importance of:

• Clear procedures

• Current training

• Device familiarity

• Confident staff

Safe Hands SA – helping workplaces stay safer, stronger, and more capable through ongoing learning, refreshers, and practical first aid resources.

Need Support or Clarification?

If your school or childcare service would like:

• A refresher session

• Practical discussion around device differences

• HLTAID012 training

• A review of your anaphylaxis response procedures

We are happy to assist.

Safe Hands SA delivers contextualised training tailored to education and care settings across South Australia.

Contact Safe Hands SA

📧 contact@safehandssa.com

📞 0433 234 918

🌐 www.safehandssa.com