NQS QA 2 Are you aware of recent changes to the management of Anaphylaxis's?
2026 Allergy Management Updates: What ECEC Services Need to Know
The landscape of allergy management in early childhood education and care (ECEC) continues to evolve, and 2026 brings some of the most significant updates we’ve seen in recent years. With new adrenaline devices entering the Australian market, refreshed ASCIA Action Plans, and strengthened regulatory expectations, services must ensure their policies, training, and documentation remain current and compliant.
At Elevate Success Consultancy, we’re committed to helping services stay ahead of these changes—so children at risk of anaphylaxis receive the safest, most confident care possible.
Updated 2026 ASCIA Action Plans:
What’s Changed and Why It Matters
The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) has released fully updated 2026 Action Plans for Anaphylaxis, including:
Five versions of the red ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis – A general version – Four device‑specific versions (EpiPen®, Anapen®, Jext®, and Neffy® nasal spray)
A refreshed Orange First Aid Plan for Anaphylaxis
Updated travel and allergic reaction plans
Anaphylaxis - Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
New Adrenaline Devices in 2026: Beyond the EpiPen®
2026 marks a major shift in anaphylaxis management with the introduction of:
Neffy® – a needle‑free adrenaline nasal spray
Jext® – a new adrenaline autoinjector
These devices expand treatment options and may reduce hesitation during emergencies, particularly for staff anxious about needle‑based administration.
What this means for services:
Children may now arrive with nasal spray–specific ASCIA Action Plans.
Policies must be updated to reflect multiple device types.
Staff training must include device‑specific administration, including nasal spray technique.
Services must ensure they have trainer devices for practice where available.
Schools and ECEC settings will also see updated training requirements, including new workshops for Neffy® and Jext® in 2026.
What ECEC Services Need to Do Now
To remain compliant and confident, Elevate Success Consultancy recommends the following immediate actions:
✔ Review all current ASCIA Action Plans
Ensure each child’s plan:
Is the 2026 version
Matches the prescribed device
Is signed by an authorised prescriber
Is displayed and stored according to regulation
✔ Update your Medical Conditions Policy
Include:
Neffy® nasal spray procedures
Jext® autoinjector procedures
Device‑specific storage, expiry checks, and risk minimisation strategies
✔ Refresh staff training
Training must now include:
Administration of all adrenaline devices
Recognising anaphylaxis without skin symptoms
Updated CPR and emergency response steps
Practice with trainer devices where possible
✔ Communicate with families
Inform families about:
The need for updated 2026 ASCIA plans
Device‑specific requirements
Any changes to service procedures
How Elevate Success Consultancy Can Support You
We provide tailored support to help services confidently implement these changes, including:
Policy and procedure updates
Staff training and capability building
Compliance audits
Family communication templates
Emergency management reviews