The Albanese Government has pledged to make the largest investment in Medicare since its creation over 40 years ago, injecting $8.5 billion to expand bulk billing, increase doctor training, and ease financial pressures on Australian families.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the landmark investment would deliver an additional 18 million bulk-billed GP visits each year, ensuring Australians can access healthcare without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses.
“Labor built Medicare, we will protect it and improve it for all Australians,” he said.
“I want every Australian to know they only need their Medicare card, not their credit card, to receive the healthcare they need.”
By 2030, nine out of ten GP visits are expected to be bulk billed, tripling the number of fully bulk-billing practices to around 4,800 nationwide. The initiative will see patient savings of $859 million annually, significantly reducing the financial strain on households.
For the first time, bulk billing incentives will extend to all Australians, with an additional incentive payment introduced for practices that bulk bill every patient. From 1 November, practices adopting full bulk billing will receive an extra 12.5% loading payment on their Medicare rebates.
Health Minister Mark Butler said the initiative would reverse cuts made under the previous Coalition government, which the Australian Medical Association estimates drained $8.3 billion from Medicare due to a funding freeze initiated by Peter Dutton a decade ago.
He added that the freeze had put significant financial pressure on GP practices, making it harder for Australians to afford essential medical care.
In addition to expanding bulk billing, the Labor Government is investing in the future of the healthcare workforce. The plan includes 400 nursing scholarships and the largest GP training program in Australian history, funding the training of 2,000 new GP trainees per year by 2028.
Albanese said the initiative was about strengthening Medicare for future generations.
“No Australian should have to check their bank balance to see if they can afford to see a doctor,” he said.
“That is not who we are. That is not the future we want for Australia.”
With the cost of living continuing to rise, the government hopes this investment will provide relief while reinforcing Australia’s commitment to universal healthcare.
“This is a policy that lifts up our entire nation and ensures no one is held back, and no one is left behind,” Albanese said.
“It will make Medicare even stronger, help with cost-of-living pressures and ensure every Australian receives the best healthcare that they deserve.”
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