Health Legislation Amendment (Improved Medicare Integrity and Other Measures) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Darmanin emphasised the government's commitment to protecting Medicare, citing an $8.5 billion investment and the delivery of 87 urgent care clinics ahead of schedule. Darmanin argued that bulk-billing rates were rising again in every state and territory due to expanded incentives. Darmanin highlighted cost-of-living relief measures, including cheaper PBS medicines and record funding for public hospitals, contrasting this with previous coalition cuts.

Hume supported the bill as sensible compliance legislation but criticised the government's broader healthcare record. Hume argued that bulk-billing had fallen significantly under Labor and that out-of-pocket costs were at record highs. Hume claimed that the bill addressed administrative issues but failed to resolve the affordability crisis facing families. Hume urged the government to deliver on its promise of widespread bulk-billing.

Sheldon argued that the government was reversing a decade of neglect by the previous administration, which had cut billions from hospitals. Sheldon highlighted investments in mental health care, including new centres and youth support services. Sheldon noted that the bill strengthened investigative powers to combat fraud and supported vaping reforms that were reducing youth vaping rates. Sheldon emphasised that Medicare was a fundamental right that Labor was committed to protecting.

Mulholland supported the bill, noting its role in protecting Medicare from fraud and non-compliance. Mulholland highlighted the establishment of urgent care clinics and mental health clinics in Queensland, which provided free walk-in services. Mulholland argued that the integrity measures would ensure taxpayer funds were used effectively and that the majority of practitioners complied with rules. Mulholland emphasised the importance of bulk-billing for children and families.

Dolega supported the bill as part of a generational investment in healthcare, citing the expansion of GP training and urgent care clinics in Tasmania. Dolega highlighted the reduction in PBS costs and the impact of vaping reforms on youth health. Dolega argued that the government was restoring funding and improving access to care, particularly in regional areas. Dolega emphasised that Medicare was a cornerstone of Australian society that required strong protection.

Thorpe raised concerns about the lack of adequate healthcare for incarcerated First Nations people, describing the system as neglectful and discriminatory. Thorpe highlighted issues such as denied medication, untreated conditions, and unsafe prison conditions. Thorpe foreshadowed moving an amendment to address these priorities, including access to PBS medicines and culturally safe care. Thorpe criticised the government for failing to act on recommendations from reviews into First Nations healthcare in prisons.

Walker supported the bill, noting its technical measures to prevent fraud and streamline pharmacy approvals. Walker highlighted the government's investment in Medicare, including bulk-billing incentives and GP workforce expansion. Walker emphasised the importance of vaping reforms and the reduction in PBS costs for families. Walker argued that the bill was essential for maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the healthcare system.

Thorpe moved an amendment noting that preventable deaths continue in custody due to denied healthcare and systemic racism. The amendment called for the implementation of recommendations from the National Review of First Nations Health Care in Prisons and the removal of hanging points. Thorpe urged the government to establish nationally consistent standards for equitable healthcare in custodial settings and ensure First Peoples lead custodial health system transformations.