Opened the debate
Ryan opposed the bill, arguing it unfairly targeted aged pensioners who had contributed to the country for decades. Ryan stated that the legislation would cut over $1.5 billion in support from this demographic, forcing many to downgrade or drop their cover. Ryan claimed this would destabilise the private health insurance risk pool and increase premiums for remaining members. Ryan moved an amendment to preserve higher rebate rates for age pension recipients to ensure they could afford insurance in retirement.