The federal government has secured bipartisan support for a $8.5 billion Medicare expansion, guaranteeing universal bulk-billing access for all Australians—a move hailed as critical cost-of-living relief for older citizens and low-income households. The reform aims to eliminate financial barriers to primary healthcare, addressing years of strain on Australians struggling with rising medical fees.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Australia praised the decision as a “common-sense” victory for equitable healthcare.
COTA CEO Patricia Sparrow emphasised the historic exclusion of many over-50s from bulk-billing incentives, stating, “For too long we’ve been in a situation where many Australians over the age of 50, and indeed Australians of all ages, have been forced to think twice about whether they can afford to go and see a doctor. Whether or not you can see a doctor shouldn’t depend on your bank account.”
“Anything that eases cost-of-living pressures is welcome,” Sparrow added. “This is a common-sense reform that will hopefully improve the wellbeing of older Australians while also helping to ease some of the cost of living pressures people are facing.”
However, COTA warns that dental care remains a glaring gap in Australia’s healthcare safety net. Sparrow urged policymakers to prioritise a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme next, citing dire consequences of unaddressed oral health issues. “Too many older Australians are missing out on crucial oral and dental care because they simply can’t afford it,” she said.
“Good oral health is vital for maintaining good overall health, and the risks of not getting the care people need can be incredibly serious – even life-threatening in some extreme cases.”
The group argues that affordable dental care would reduce long-term strain on hospitals, freeing resources for urgent needs.
“Making sure all Australians, including older Australians, get access to the quality, affordable health and dental care they need will keep them healthier for longer – decreasing the burden on our public health care system and freeing it up for those who need it most,” Sparrow said.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
