Health Legislation Amendment (Prescribing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Abdo argued that the bill strengthens the health system by allowing designated registered nurses to prescribe PBS-subsidised medicines, improving access and reducing delays. Abdo highlighted that the reform is based on years of consultation and evidence, ensuring patient safety and professional standards. Abdo noted that PBS costs were capped at $25 from 1 January 2026, with concession holders paying $7.70, and praised the expansion of bulk-billing incentives and urgent care clinics. Abdo stated that in Calwell, the proportion of bulk-billing practices had risen from fewer than 40 per cent to 90 per cent.

Coker supported the bill as a practical reform to improve access to timely care, particularly in regional communities like Corangamite. Coker explained that only nurses meeting strict standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia would be eligible, with medicines assessed by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee. Coker highlighted government investments in Medicare, including $14.5 million for 306 new GP training places in 2026 and the expansion of urgent care clinics. Coker noted that women had saved significant amounts on newly listed medicines, with over 610,000 women benefiting from cheaper contraceptives and menopause treatments.

Moncrieff argued that the bill enhances access to medicines and supports the health workforce by allowing designated registered nurses to prescribe under the PBS. Moncrieff noted that the reform is grounded in extensive research and consultation, with a new registration standard approved in December 2024 and effective from September 2025. Moncrieff stated that the first cohort of nurse prescribers would begin in July 2026, working in partnership with authorised health practitioners. Moncrieff highlighted that the bill includes oversight through the Professional Services Review Scheme and aligns with state and territory legislation amendments.

Elliot supported the bill, stating it removes barriers to accessing medicines, particularly in rural and regional areas. Elliot noted that nurses are the health workers most spread out across the country and enabling them to prescribe PBS medicines would improve access and reduce travel costs. Elliot highlighted government achievements, including the opening of the Tweed Heads Medicare Urgent Care Clinic and the expansion of bulk-billing incentives to all Australians from November 2025. Elliot mentioned that the cost of PBS medicines was reduced to $25 from 1 January 2026, and that 60-day prescriptions were introduced for chronic conditions.

Zappia commended the bill for empowering nurses to prescribe medications, thereby reducing pressure on the health system and emergency departments. Zappia noted that nurses are highly trusted and experienced, and the reform includes safeguards such as additional training and oversight by authorised health professionals. Zappia highlighted that the first cohort of nurse prescribers would commence in July 2026. Zappia also referenced broader health reforms, including the opening of 122 urgent Medicare clinics and the reduction of PBS costs to $25 for general patients and $7.70 for concession holders.

Laxale argued that the bill reduces friction in the health system by allowing designated registered nurses to prescribe PBS-subsidised medicines, improving efficiency and access. Laxale noted that the reform is targeted and does not replace doctors but removes unnecessary barriers to care. Laxale highlighted that in Bennelong, the number of bulk-billing practices had increased from nine to 14 since November 2025. Laxale also mentioned the opening of Medicare urgent care clinics in Top Ryde and Chatswood and the construction of a mental health centre in Ryde.

Stanley supported the bill as a measure to support the health workforce and improve access to affordable medicines. Stanley noted that the bill amends the National Health Act 1953 to allow endorsed registered nurses to prescribe under the PBS and includes them in the Professional Services Review Scheme. Stanley highlighted that the first cohort of nurse prescribers would be endorsed by July 2026, with all states and territories amending their legislation to enable this. Stanley mentioned the recent opening of a Medicare urgent care clinic in Werriwa and the government's broader investment in primary care and bulk-billing.