Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Health Legislation Amendment (Improving Choice and Transparency for Private Health Consumers) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Monday 14 September 2026

Continued from Monday 29 June 2026.

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

At a glance

The debate concerned a bill aimed at increasing transparency in private health costs and closing loopholes in insurance premium regulations. The Greens supported the legislation as a positive initial step but argued it failed to address the underlying affordability crisis, citing high specialist fees and the need for broader public health investment. The Liberal Party also supported the bill in principle, acknowledging their role in creating the original Medical Costs Finder, but raised concerns about the specific drafting of the measures. The debate was interrupted before a final vote or conclusion was reached.

Outcome

The debate was interrupted before a conclusion was reached.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Jordon Steele-John (WA) (Australian Greens) Greens

Steele-John argued that the bill was a welcome step toward transparency but insufficient to solve the broader healthcare affordability crisis. Steele-John highlighted that specialist fees had risen significantly, forcing many to delay care or choose between health and essentials. Steele-John supported the ban on insurers using phoenixing tactics to bypass premium approval processes. Steele-John called for greater investment in public healthcare and the inclusion of dental care in Medicare to ensure universal access.

Opposition response

Leah Blyth (SA) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Blyth stated that the coalition supported the principle of transparency and would not oppose the bill. Blyth noted that the coalition had originally established the Medical Costs Finder in 2019 to help patients understand potential costs. Blyth expressed concern that the bill as drafted did not adequately address the issues, citing feedback from the scrutiny of bills committee and stakeholders. Blyth highlighted high out-of-pocket costs and the significant number of Australians avoiding specialist care due to financial concerns.