Bulk Billing has Collapsed in Bonner under Labor
SENATOR THE HON ANNE RUSTON
Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care
Shadow Minister for Sport
Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate
ROSS VASTA MP
Federal Member for Bonner
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
Bulk Billing has Collapsed in Bonner under Labor
It has never been harder or more expensive for the people of Bonner to see a doctor than under the Albanese Labor Government. Data from the Department of Health continues to confirm the severity of this primary care crisis.
According to new data released by the Department, access to GP bulk billing has fallen in Bonner by 14.2% to 67.5% in 2023-24 under Labor, in comparison to 81.8% in 2021-22 under the Coalition.
This has resulted in 288,320 less bulk billed GP visits across Bonner under Labor in 2023-24, compared to the Coalition’s last year in government.
Shadow Minister for Health, Senator Anne Ruston said that despite all of Labor’s promises, grandstanding and lies, the data makes it clear that Medicare has only been weakened under the Albanese Government’s watch.
“It is seriously concerning that Australians living in Bonner have had their access to free GP appointments sent backwards, particularly in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis,” Shadow Minister Ruston said.
“Less Australians are getting access to bulk billing under Labor, which means they are having to pay record high out-of-pocket costs to see a doctor because of this government’s mismanagement.
“We know that this is forcing more and more Australians to avoid seeing a doctor because they just cannot afford it. This is a choice no one should have to make.
“Instead of addressing this crisis, Labor’s focus is on lying to Australians about Medicare. On the other hand, the Coalition is focused on how to restore bulk billing and get our healthcare system back on track.”
Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, said that it is incredibly disappointing to know our Bonner community isn’t receiving the access to healthcare needed.
“The health of locals will always be a top priority.”
“There is nothing more important than ensuring we are a healthy and active society, which is why I will continue to fight for access to quality healthcare for all Australians.”
Only a Dutton Coalition Government will fix Labor’s primary care crisis to ensure the people of Bonner have timely and affordable access to a GP.
ENDS
Media Contacts:
Ruston: Sophia Marsh-Corbin | 0408 350 117
Vasta: Sarah Crawford | 0431 435 362