A key advisory group to the Federal Government has taken the unusual step of publicly condemning big pharmaceutical companies for pushing expensive cancer medications that have limited benefit.

In a submission to a senate inquiry, the body that recommends which drugs should get government subsidies has accused major international companies of misleading the public.

But the lobby group representing drug companies, Medicines Australia, has hit back criticising Australia's approval process.

For more details, go to: http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2015/s4199785.htm