Opened the debate
Landry argued that removing the higher rebate for those aged 65 and over would penalise seniors who have maintained cover for decades. Landry stated that many pensioners hold private insurance to ensure choice and certainty in treatment, often sacrificing other expenses to keep it. Landry warned that the additional costs could force older Australians to downgrade or abandon their cover, particularly in regional areas where travel for care is already burdensome. Landry contended that this shift would increase pressure on public hospitals, such as Rockhampton Hospital, leading to longer waiting lists for elective surgeries.