SENATOR THE HON KATY GALLAGHER
MINISTER FOR FINANCE
MINISTER FOR WOMEN
MINISTER FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE
SENATOR FOR THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

THE HON DR ANDREW LEIGH MP
ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR COMPETITION, CHARITIES AND TREASURY
MEMBER FOR FENNER

DAVID SMITH MP
MEMBER FOR BEAN

ALICIA PAYNE MP
MEMBER FOR CANBERRA

MAKING MEDICARE STRONGER FOR CANBERRANS

Today, the largest investment in bulk billing in the 40-year history of Medicare takes effect thanks to the Albanese Labor Government, with the tripling of the bulk billing incentive for local GPs.

Bulk billing is the beating heart of Medicare.

After nine years of cuts and neglect by the former government, bulk billing rates have declined sharply and it’s never been harder or more expensive for Australians to see a GP.

This historic investment means in Canberra, there will be a 34% increase in the payments to a bulk billing GP.

On top of our investment in bulk billing, we are investing in an $1.5 billion indexation boost across the board to Medicare rebates, increasing the amount that doctors receive for Medicare services and reducing pressure on GPs.

The Albanese Government is committed to making it more affordable for you and your family to get the health care you need.  

Quotes attributable to Senator Katy Gallagher. 

“Our historic investments into bulk billing will make a big difference in Canberra.

“Doctors’ groups have called this a “game-changer” and GPs have said this will help them maintain and even shift back to bulk billing.”

Quotes attributable to the Hon Andrew Leigh MP, Member for Fenner: 

"When I speak to doctors and nurses in my electorate the need for more support for Medicare to make bulk-billing sustainable is the first thing they raise.

“Labor's always backed Medicare in and these investments are very welcome after nine years of Coalition neglect."

Quotes attributable to Dave Smith MP, Member for Bean: 

“Bulk billing is a significant issue in my community. It needs to be addressed.

“I welcome this initiative and look forward to seeing this make a real difference on the ground.”

Quotes attributable to Alicia Payne MP, Member for Canberra: 

“Canberra has some of the lowest rates of bulk billing in the country, and Canberrans know how hard it can be to find a bulk billing doctor.”

“The Government’s historic investment in bulk billing means more children, families, pensioners and concession card holders in Canberra will have access to the universal, prompt and world class medical care they deserve.”

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1 2023