Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Health Insurance Amendment (Incentive Payments and Other Measures) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Wednesday 16 September 2026

Continued from Thursday 2 July 2026.

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

At a glance

The debate concerned the legislative framework for Medicare incentive programs, including bulk-billing and workforce incentives. Senator Whiteaker supported the bill, citing improved transparency and significant increases in bulk-billing rates. Senator Ruston stated the Coalition would not oppose the bill but criticised the government's record on out-of-pocket costs and rural health access. Ruston moved an amendment noting these issues and condemning the government, which was not passed before the debate was interrupted.

Outcome

The debate was interrupted before the amendment was put to the vote.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Ellie Whiteaker (WA) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Whiteaker argued the bill strengthened Medicare by placing incentive programs on a clear legislative footing and improving accountability. Whiteaker highlighted the success of the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program, noting that national bulk-billing rates rose to 84.1 per cent by June 2026. Whiteaker stated that over 3,800 practices were now registered as bulk-billing, covering 97 per cent of the population. Whiteaker emphasised that Western Australia saw a five per cent increase in bulk-billing rates since November 2025. Whiteaker concluded that the government's $8.5 billion investment was delivering real results for families and older Australians.

Opposition response

Anne Ruston (SA) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Ruston stated the Coalition supported the bill's administrative reforms but argued it did not address underlying issues in primary care. Ruston claimed average out-of-pocket costs for GP visits had risen to over $50, a 21 per cent increase in two years. Ruston noted that GP attendances fell by 1.8 million in the past year due to affordability concerns. Ruston argued the government was pressuring GPs to bulk-bill despite modelling showing nearly one in three would be financially worse off. Ruston moved an amendment to note these failures and condemn the government for misleading the public.