Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Health Legislation Amendment (Prescribing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Bill 2025, Translating and Interpreting Services Bill 2025; Second Reading

Senate · Thursday 5 February 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The Minister for Industry and Innovation moved the second reading of two bills in the Senate. The first bill aimed to allow designated registered nurses to prescribe certain medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, thereby improving access to care and reducing pressure on general practitioners. The second bill sought to establish a statutory framework for TIS National, ensuring the continued provision of translating and interpreting services. The debate was adjourned with no other members speaking.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned until the first sitting day of the next parliamentary session.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Tim Ayres (NSW) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Ayres argued that the health legislation would allow nurses to practise within their full professional scope, improving access to affordable medicines and reducing wait times in emergency departments. Ayres stated that the reform aligns with recommendations from the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce and supports the National Medicines Policy. Ayres noted that the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia had developed standards for nurse prescribers, with the first cohort expected to be endorsed by July 2026. Ayres emphasised that the changes would strengthen the health system by easing workforce pressures and ensuring safe, high-quality care.