Health Insurance Amendment (Incentive Payments and Other Measures) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Briskey commended the bill as a measure to strengthen Medicare and protect universal health care. Briskey highlighted that the national GP bulk-billing rate had risen to 81.9 per cent, with more than 3,800 practices now fully bulk-billing. Briskey also referenced the government's $8.5 billion investment in Medicare and the reduction of PBS script costs to a maximum of $25, arguing these measures improved affordability for working families.

Wilson argued that the government's approach rationed health care by price rather than queue, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. Wilson cited data showing co-payments in the Goldstein electorate had risen from $44.31 in 2022-23 to $52.94 in 2025-26. Wilson criticised the removal of private health insurance rebates for people over 65, arguing this would increase demand on the public system during the most expensive stage of life. Wilson contended that the government's rhetoric did not match the lived experience of rising costs and reduced access.

Neumann defended the bill as essential for providing a clear legislative framework for primary care incentives. Neumann stated that bulk-billing rates were increasing in every state and territory, with 97 per cent of people living less than 20 minutes away from a bulk-billing practice. Neumann highlighted local successes in the Blair electorate, including a rise in bulk-billing practices and the establishment of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics. Neumann also noted the renaming of the Health Insurance Act 1973 to the Medicare Act 1973 as part of the reforms.

Webster stated the coalition would not oppose the bill but argued it addressed administrative processes rather than patient care outcomes. Webster highlighted that regional Australians faced significant barriers to access, including workforce shortages and high out-of-pocket costs, which the bill did not resolve. Webster called for structural reform to funding models to support rural practices and maternity services, arguing that current incentives were insufficient for thin markets. Webster emphasised that regional communities needed better health care access, not just improved paperwork.

Coffey supported the bill as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the health ecosystem, including primary care and mental health services. Coffey highlighted local organisations in the Griffith electorate that provided critical support, such as crisis counselling and youth advocacy. Coffey also mentioned the launch of 1800MEDICARE, a free after-hours telehealth service, and the Medicare Mental Health Check In. Coffey argued that strengthening Medicare through bulk-billing and affordable medicines improved overall community health outcomes.