Month: May 2021

Film series uncovers stories of Newcastle

Newcastle’s role in a 19th century art revolution that preserved important Aboriginal cultural knowledge has been highlighted in a new film.
Lycett and Wallis: Unlikely Preservers of Aboriginal Knowledge tells the story of English-born convict Joseph Lycett, who was transported to Australia for forgery in 1815 and was later commissioned by Captain James Wallis, Commandant of Newcastle, to document the landscape and burgeoning township of Coal River/Mulubinba (Newcastle).
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen, City of Newcastle Director of City Wide Services Alissa Jones, filmmaker Tony Whittaker, Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton, filmmaker Chit Chat von Loopin Stab, Councillor Carol Duncan, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz and City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath.
Created in a time before cameras existed, Lycett’s paintings have become an invaluable record of traditional Aboriginal life in Newcastle as it had existed for thousands of years, depicting the rich culture and lifestyle of Australia’s first peoples with images of corroborees, hunting techniques, fishing, funerals and visions of laws being enacted.
The film examines the significance of Lycett’s work and its importance to Aboriginal people today, as well as the role Wallis played in the development of Newcastle and Lycett’s work.
It was created by Newcastle songwriter, producer and musician Chit Chat von Loopin Stab (aka Glenn Dormand) and fellow filmmaker Tony Whittaker as part of their Stories of Our Town series, which also includes films on the Star Hotel riot, BHP and the Scott Sisters.
With grants from City of Newcastle, the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund and private sources, the filmmakers are hoping to make at least 12 documentaries as part of the series.
Lycett and Wallis: Unlikely Preservers of Aboriginal Knowledge features interviews with a range of subjects including Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton and Gallery Curator Sarah Johnson, Newcastle Museum Director Julie Baird and Councillor Carol Duncan, whose personal Facebook group Lost Newcastle provided the initial inspiration for the Stories of our Town series.
Three of Lycett’s paintings examined in the film form part of the Newcastle Art Gallery collection – ‘Inner View of Newcastle’ c1818, ‘Newcastle NSW looking towards Prospect Hill’ c1818 and ‘View with cattle in foreground, Hunter River’ c1818.
The film was officially launched with a special screening at Newcastle Art Gallery and is now available to view via the Stories of Our Town website.
The filmmakers also recently released a short film, The Islanders: Chats with Vera Deacon, which was created in collaboration with Newcastle Libraries and University of Newcastle Library and is a collection of stories from Vera’s early life on the islands of the Hunter River.
The writer, philanthropist and passionate historian was named a Freeman of the City in 2019 in recognition of her contribution to Newcastle’s heritage, conservation and local history.
The film was commissioned by Newcastle Libraries as a contemporary twist to traditional oral history projects and makes the most of the capabilities of the new Digital Library Storywall, where it will be available to view by the community.

MASS VACCINATION CENTRE OPENS

The mass vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park has opened today with thousands of people booked in to receive the COVID-19 vaccine this week.
During its first weeks of operation, the Centre will focus on delivering Pfizer vaccinations to priority groups including healthcare workers, emergency services workers as well as quarantine and border workers and their households.
Bookings are required.
Members of the general public aged 40-49 are invited to register their interest in receiving the Pfizer vaccine through NSW Health. They will be contacted when a booking is available. People aged 40-49 can register here from 5pm today: nsw.gov.au/
From Wednesday 12 May, people aged 50 and over can book their AstraZeneca jab at the mass vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park, if they are unable to obtain the vaccination from their GP. These bookings will be available here; covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the centre at Sydney Olympic Park would operate six days per week from 8am to 8pm.
“The mass vaccination centre will be able to administer up to 30,000 vaccines per week once it is up and running, that means around 5,000 vaccinations per day,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The Centre, combined with the more than 100 NSW Health run clinics and hubs, means NSW Health can administer around 60,000 vaccines each week across the State.”
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said about 200 registered nurses and midwives will work at the Centre forming about two-thirds of its 300-strong workforce.
“Opening a vaccination centre of this scale at Sydney Olympic Park is a massive and unprecedented undertaking, and one I’m very proud of as Health Minister,” Mr Hazzard said.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant urged everyone in NSW who can be vaccinated to do so.
“Vaccination is very effective at reducing your risk of serious illness and death from COVID-19 and will also reduce the chance you will pass on the infection to your loved ones,” Dr Chant said.

BRAND NEW POLICE STATION FOR SINGLETON

The Singleton community in the Upper Hunter will benefit from a brand new police station, thanks to $12 million in funding from the NSW Government.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott joined NSW Nationals candidate for the Upper Hunter Dave Layzell at Singleton Police Station today to make the announcement, and said it will be a significant boost for the region.
“The current police station in Singleton has been serving the community since 1867 and the heritage listed building is home to around 50 staff,” Mr Barilaro said.
“The new fit-for-purpose station will meet the needs of the growing Hunter Valley Police District and mean Singleton can continue to be well resourced by NSW Police as part of the NSW Government’s commitment to building a safer and stronger Upper Hunter.
“I want to thank all the officers and staff working within the Hunter Valley Police District for your service and dedication to the people of NSW and this brand new police station should better serve the deserving community of Singleton and surrounds.”
Mr Elliott said the Singleton Police Station will have the state-of-the-art resources that our modern police force needs to operate effectively.
“Police numbers in the Hunter Valley Police District have been steadily increasing, from 163 in 2019 to 181 this year, and with the NSW Government’s commitment to delivering an additional 1500 police over four years, that number is only likely to grow,” Mr Elliott said.
“A new police station for Singleton will accommodate the growing number of officers for years to come and provide a fantastic facility for current staff and the community.
“This is another example of the NSW Government’s commitment to the NSW Police Force, with 36 Police stations built or upgraded since 2011 and continued investment in police infrastructure.”
In 2020-21, the NSW Government is investing a record $287.7 million in NSW Police Force capital projects.

BUILD BEGINS ON AUSTRALIAN FIRST HOSPICE IN MANLY

Manly will soon house Australia’s first palliative care hospice for young people living with an incurable illness, with construction to commence shortly.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Member for Manly James Griffin visited the site of the former Manly Hospital today to turn the first sod on the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice.
“This is the first hospice in Australia dedicated to 15-24 year old patients living with an incurable illness, providing first class palliative care services and support during the most challenging of times,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The hospice will welcome families from right across NSW, including in rural and  regional areas.”
Member for Manly James Griffin said the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice will provide specialised care, including bereavement support and counselling.
“The Manly community has made the development of this vital hospice right here on our beautiful coast possible through their wonderful support and donations,” Mr Griffin said.
“More than $6.5 million has been raised by the community for this project. This was boosted by an $8 million investment from the NSW Government along with $5 million from the Federal Government.
“This hospice will fill a much-needed gap for young people who outgrow Manly’s renowned Bear Cottage or have been diagnosed with life-limiting conditions as a young adult.”
The Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice will have eight bedrooms for patients, breakout spaces including a media and games room, as well as two family accommodation units with two bedrooms each.
Construction of the hospice is scheduled for completion in late 2022 and is jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments, as well as generous community donations.
Health Infrastructure is working closely with the Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) and expert clinicians to deliver the hospice, which will be located at the former Manly Hospital site on the North Head headland.
For further information and to support the Hospice, visit the NSLHD website.

NSW GOVERNMENT WEEKLY UPDATE – 7 MAY 2021

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS UPDATE

  • Given the latest cases of community transmission and updated health advice from the Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant, COVID-19 restrictions will be temporarily tightened across Greater Sydney.
  • The following measures are effective until 12.01am Monday, 10 May for the Greater Sydney region (including Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains):
    • Visitors to households will be limited to 20 guests – including children;
    • Masks will be compulsory on public transport and in all public indoor venues, such as retail, theatres, hospitals, aged care facilities and for front-of-house hospitality staff (except in a hospitality venue when eating or drinking);
    • Drinking while standing up at indoor venues will not be allowed;
    • Singing by audiences at indoor shows or by congregants at indoor places of worship will not be allowed;
    • Dancing will not be allowed at indoor hospitality venues or nightclubs however, dancing is allowed at weddings with a strong recommendation that no more than 20 people should be on the dancefloor at any one time; and
    • Visitors to aged care facilities will be limited to two people.
  • It is also strongly recommended the community avoids mingling in large groups over the coming days, and is careful not to put our most vulnerable at risk.
  • For the latest information and COVID-19 testing sites please visit: www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19.

NSW LOOKS TO LEAD THE WAY WITH mRNA VACCINES

  • Premier Gladys Berejiklian has brought together the State’s leading experts in mRNA technology as NSW looks to create a new medical manufacturing and research industry.
  • Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines use mRNA technology. However, Australia currently has no long-form RNA manufacturing capacity.
  • NSW is home to nationally and globally significant programs of genomic medicine development, particularly in the fields of gene therapy, gene-modified cell therapy and RNA therapy. These therapies treat a wide range of conditions including genetic diseases, cancers, infectious diseases and cardiac conditions.
  • NSW already has capabilities in the advanced manufacture of viral vectors, plasmids and short-form RNA, which are key technologies used for these therapies. The addition of mRNA capacity to this manufacturing network would significantly strengthen local research and development programs.

FASTSTREAM OPEN FOR TEACHERS AND GRADUATES

  • The first teaching career fast track program in NSW has opened for applications for aspiring graduates and current teachers who want to turbocharge their careers to become a principal within 10 years.
  • The FASTstream program, beginning in Term 1 2022, aims to attract high-quality teaching staff to regional NSW and other hard-to-staff parts of the state.
  • The FASTstream program will incentivise up-and-coming teachers and graduates by preparing participants for principal roles in up to 10 years, fast tracking the existing average of 20 years.
  • In the program’s inaugural year, 30 current teachers and 20 teaching graduates will be selected to participate.
  • For more information or to apply, visit: https://teach.nsw.edu.au/enhance-your-career/faststream-recruitment.

FIVE PROJECTS SET TO ACCELERATE BASIN PLAN

  • Implementation of the Murray Darling Basin Plan has shifted up a gear, following agreement between the Commonwealth and Basin states.
  • Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey has announced details of the five accelerated key Sustainable Diversion Limit (SDL) projects agreed to at last week’s Murray Darling Ministerial Council meeting.
  • In addition to agreement being reached last week to accelerate a suite of projects to enable delivery by 2024, Ministers have recognised the unique sensitives around Menindee and Yanco and have agreed that NSW will spend the next two months re-working these projects.
  • For details on the SDLAM Acceleration Program including full details of the five accelerated projects, please visit www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/sdlam.

AUSTRALIA’S LONGEST ROAD TUNNEL PROPOSED FOR GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY UPGRADE

FLYING KANGAROO TO STAY IN THE PREMIER STATE

  • Qantas will continue to call NSW home with its global headquarters to remain in Sydney following an in principle agreement with the NSW Government.
  • The announcement secures thousands of existing and future jobs for NSW and includes several other benefits including Sydney being the exclusive launch city for Qantas’ ultra-long-haul non-stop flights to cities such as London and New York.
  • The commitment also confirmed:
    • The construction of a new Flight Training Centre with aircraft simulators to be based in NSW from 2023;
    • Plans for expansion of Qantas Loyalty team in Mascot;
    • Qantas working with the NSW Government to develop a comprehensive indigenous and diversity employment program.
  • The final binding agreement will be subject to ongoing detailed negotiations.

FEMALE CHANGEROOMS ARE TOP PRIORITY IN $100 MILLION FUND FOR REGIONAL NSW

  • Female sporting teams across regional NSW will benefit from new and improved facilities and regional towns will soon see even more investment in community infrastructure and programs that will make a big difference to everyday life in the bush, thanks to the $100 million Stronger Country Communities Fund.
  • Applications are now open for Round Four and communities are encouraged to apply.
  • Getting facilities up to date, particularly women’s change rooms, will ensure all female athletes are supported to take part in a wide range of sports, including once male dominated codes.
  • The Stronger Country Communities fund is part of the NSW Government’s $2 billion Regional Growth Fund. Applications for Round Four open 1 May 2021 and close on 25 June 2021. For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/SCCF.

$135 MILLION TO HELP SAVE LIVES ON OUR ROADS

  • Road users across the state are set to benefit from a $135 million investment in road safety projects under the latest round of the $822 million Safer Roads Program.
  • 78 lifesaving projects will be financed this year through the Community Road Safety Fund.
  • The Safer Roads program is estimated to prevent the loss of more than 1500 lives and serious injuries on our roads over 15 years. That’s 1500 people making it home safely to their families because of these projects.

LOCALLY EXTINCT FISH RETURN TO MACQUARIE RIVER AFTER 70 YEARS

  • More than 70 years after the species were last recorded in the catchment, 7,500 juvenile Macquarie Perch have been released back into the Macquarie River catchment at Winburndale Dam.
  • The project was funded under the Government’s $10 million 2019/20 NSW Native Fish Rescue Program.
  • Conditions are now ideal for these fish to flourish in and it’s expected their populations will be able to thrive over the coming years.

Man dies in single-vehicle crash – Hunter Valley

A man has died following a single-vehicle crash in the state’s Hunter Region yesterday.
About 6pm (Monday 10 May 2021), emergency services were called to Myall Creek Road, Glendon Brook, following reports of a crash.
On arrival, officers from Hunter Valley Police District located a Toyota Landcruiser about 30 meters down an embankment that had crashed into a tree.
The 52-year-old male driver was found inside the car deceased.
A crime scene was established as inquiries into the cause of the crash commenced.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

$354 million to support the health and wellbeing of Australia’s women

The Morrison Government is investing $353.9 million over the next four years as part of the 2021-22 Budget to support women’s health, including funding for cervical and breast cancer, endometriosis and reproductive health.
This significant investment builds on our Government’s commitment to implementing the five priority areas of the National Women’s Health Strategy 2020–2030 and improving long term health outcomes for women and girls.
Key investment measures include:

  • $100.4 million for improvements to cervical and breast cancer screening programs which will help detect these life-threatening cancers earlier, improving survival rates.
  • $95.9 million for new tests on the MBS for pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) of embryos for specific genetic or chromosomal abnormalities prior to implantation and pregnancy.
  • $47.4 million to support the mental health and wellbeing of new and expectant parents, including through funding for the Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) helpline, and by working to deliver universal perinatal mental health screening and improved data collection across public antenatal and postnatal care settings;
  • $26.9 million to provide support for people with eating disorders and their families, noting that women account for almost two thirds of eating disorder diagnoses.
  • $22 million for additional gynaecology items on the MBS, including items for Assisted Reproductive Technology and long-term reversible contraceptives.
  • $21.6 million for women’s health initiatives, including Jean Hailes for Women’s Health and the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia for the Periods, Pain and Endometriosis Program (PPEP-Talk).
  • $19.3 million for the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme listing of Oripro®️ (progesterone) to prevent women going into premature labour.
  • $13.7 million for the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance to reduce pre-term birth rates.
  • $6.6 million for Breast Cancer Network Australia to operate its helpline, rural and regional information forums and extending its consumer representative training program.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the Government was committed to improving health services around Australia for all women and girls, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“As part of today’s significant investment, $13.7 million will help to reduce the rate of preterm births in Australia, which affect 8% of births in Australia and up to 16% among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women,” Minister Hunt said.
“We are also listing Oripro® (progesterone) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from June 1, which is used to prevent women going into premature labour, saving around 14,250 women up to $300 per course of treatment.
“Currently only couples of individuals, who are carriers of serious genetic disorders can only access PGT if they are able to pay privately. We’re investing $95.9 million for five new MBS items, ensuring all Australians can access this testing.”
Minister for Women, Senator Marise Payne, said the Morrison Government’s investment in women’s health as part of the 2021-22 Budget would benefit Australian women of all ages.
“To increase breast and cervical cancer survival rates and improve early detection, we’re investing more than $100 million, including $67 million to ensure women aged 70-74 have access to free mammograms. This complements BreastScreen Australia’s free mammogram services for women 50–69 years,” Minister Payne said.
“We’re also providing additional funding to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians suffering from Endometriosis. Affecting one in 9 women, Endometriosis can lead to severe chronic pain, and in some cases, infertility.
“Given over half the Australian population is made up of women, it’s important that we have equal access to health services and support. Our investment of $353.9 million into women’s health will benefit all Australians today and into the future.”
The Morrison Government’s National Women’s Health Strategy 2020–2030 has five priority areas; maternal, sexual and reproductive health, healthy ageing, chronic conditions and preventive health, mental health, and the health impacts of violence against women and girls – core issues affecting the lives and livelihoods of women and girls.

Potential new residents get a taste of Newcastle’s best as part of targeted relocation program

Over 70 talented, skilled and entrepreneurial individuals from across metropolitan Australia were acquainted with Newcastle this weekend as City of Newcastle narrows down to a final 30 people incentivised to relocate as part of an Australian-first economic stimulus program.
The ‘New Move’ program will give 30 community-minded skilled professionals who want to relocate to Newcastle a $10,000 grant that must be spent in the Local Government Area. In return, the applicants will commit to work with the community to develop local skills and inspire new ways of thinking to create future economic opportunities. Independent economic modelling shows the program will create 75 local jobs and drive $25 million in economic output.
New-Movecrop-1.jpgThis weekend, more than 70 of the 460 applicants travelled to Newcastle at their own expense to enjoy a curated ‘Famil’ weekend itinerary, showcasing the city’s lifestyle and economic advantages, including walking tours, dining experiences and an IQ talk from Dr Karl Kruszelnicki at the Civic Theatre. Applicants travelled from Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen, Chair of the City’s Strategy and Innovation Advisory Committee, said applicants have gained an insight into what makes Newcastle a prime location to relocate and base a business.
“This weekend, we welcomed more than 70 creative and talented professionals who are seriously looking at relocating to Newcastle. Over the weekend, we acquainted them with our landmarks, showcased our arts and cultural scene, and most-importantly connected them with like-minded individuals already relocated to Newcastle from Australian capital-cities,” Cr Clausen said.
“For many, they saw for the first-time that Newcastle is an economic hub driven by innovation and entrepreneurial community, with diverse economic opportunities.
“Greater Newcastle is home to world-class education, healthcare, and aerospace hubs, and an innovation ecosystem that supports start-ups. There’s no shortage of opportunities for talented and skilled people.
“We know that this program will deliver an excellent return on investment, with independent economic assessment showing that 30 skilled, community-minded individuals relocating to Newcastle expected to create 75 local jobs and see $25 million in economic output.”
The successful ‘New Move’ grant recipients will be asked to help further develop local skills and activate the community to create future economic opportunities. In return, recipients will gain access to co-working spaces, and networking events to build local business and community connections.
The ‘New Move’ program is funded by City of Newcastle within its existing economic development budget and was supported by a unanimous resolution of Council in December 2020.

Australian man who allegedly recruited for Islamic State arrested on return from Turkey

A wanted man has been arrested on his return to Australia from Turkey following a NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) investigation into suspected terrorism offences.
The 30-year-old former Sydney man, who was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant in NSW, was arrested at Melbourne International Airport by members of the AFP International Counter Terrorism Investigations Response Team after arriving on a flight from Turkey about 4pm yesterday (Saturday 8 May 2021).
The arrest warrant was sought by NSW JCTT – comprising the AFP, NSW Police Force (NSWPF), the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, and the NSW Crime Commission – following an investigation into the man’s alleged travel from Sydney to Turkey in 2013.
Authorities will allege the man then travelled from Turkey to Syria, where he allegedly facilitated the travel of foreign terrorist fighters to support Islamic State (IS).
The man will appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court this morning via video link, where he will face a number of Commonwealth terrorism offences, including:
• One count of knowingly give support/resources to a terrorist organisation, contrary to section 102.7(1) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). This offence is punishable by a maximum term of 25 years’ imprisonment.
• One count of engage in a hostile activity in a foreign state, contrary to section 6(1)(a) of the Crimes (Foreign Incursions and Recruitment) Act 1978 (Cth). This offence is punishable by a maximum term of 20 years’ imprisonment.
• Three counts of provide support for another person to engage in a hostile activity in a foreign state, contrary to section 7(1)(e) of the Crimes (Foreign Incursions and Recruitment) Act 1978 (Cth). This offence is punishable by a maximum term of 10 years’ imprisonment; and
• One count of entering, or remaining in, declared areas contrary to section 119.2 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). This offence is punishable by a maximum term of 10 years’ imprisonment.
The man will undergo mandatory 14-day quarantine in Victorian corrections facilities before being extradited to NSW for the matter to be heard in a NSW court.
Australian Federal Police Commander Counter Terrorism Operations Stephen Dametto said the return of the Sydney man demonstrates that Australian authorities will continue working with overseas counterparts to support the management of terrorist threats offshore.
“Anyone who fights with, provides material support to, or associates with terrorist groups, is committing a serious crime and will be subject to the law,” Commander Dametto said.
“It has been an offence since 1978 to engage in hostile activity in a foreign country, unless serving in, or with the armed forces of the government of a foreign country.
“We have a responsibility to prevent our citizens from contributing to violence and instability overseas. Our laws are aimed at discouraging Australians from fighting in overseas conflicts and endangering their lives.”
NSWPF Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Commander, Assistant Commissioner Mark Walton, said this was another example of the strength of the partnerships and collaboration in the counter terrorism framework.
“The diligence and dedication of the NSW JCTT investigators was complemented by the significant work conducted by other colleagues both here and abroad, to achieve this result,” Assistant Commissioner Walton said.
“Counter terrorism investigations remain a priority in NSW, and any act or plan for an act that may impact on the safety of our community – regardless of when it occurred – will be acted on with the same tenacity.”
There is no current or impending threat to the community related to the operation.

Budget boost to Rural Bulk Billing to benefit the bush

The Morrison Government is investing more than $65 million from 1 January 2022 to boost bulk billing rebates and provide more affordable healthcare for patients in regional, rural and remote areas.
A new, progressive incentive schedule will be applied, that increases the value of the Rural Bulk Billing Incentive (RBBI) based on remoteness. This will enhance the financial viability of practices in rural and remote areas as well as reducing the gap paid by patients.
The more remote the area based on the Modified Monash model (MM), the greater the incentive payment they will receive per eligible consultation to recognise the greater challenges and cost pressures.
Federal Regional Health Minister, Mark Coulton said the Coalition Government is delivering the progressive rural bulk billing incentives in recognition of the ongoing need to provide the right incentives for the heath workforce in rural, regional and remote areas.
“Australians in rural and remote areas have poorer access to and use of health services, compared to people living in metropolitan areas,” Minister Coulton said.
“The new Rural Bulk Billing Incentive will support those GPs providing services to people in greatest need and who have the lowest propensity to pay for healthcare; our government understands GPs outside of our metropolitan areas face greater cost and workforce pressures.”
Minister Coulton said the Federal Government understands GPs face greater health complexities and challenges in rural and remote areas, which is why more than 12,000 rural and remote GPs will be eligible for the higher bulk billing incentive.
“Doctors in the bush face a greater burden of responsibility, more complex care situations, and high rates of chronic disease compared with doctors in the cities, who can rely on support from other medical services and facilities,” he said.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said Government was delivering higher bulk billing incentives for rural and remote medical practices, which would reduce out of pocket costs to patients.
“Bulk billing is an important component of the Medicare system, and outside metropolitan areas many doctors rely on the additional incentive for each consultation to help make ends meet for their clinics,” Minister Hunt said.
“While the average bulk billing rates is more than 80% across many regional, rural and remote areas, there are still more GPs in these areas who could offer bulk billing for their patients.”
Minister Coulton said the new rural bulk billing model not only recognises the work of current rural and remote doctors but will also encourage more doctors to consider a career in rural practice.
“We want to make rural Australia a career destination of choice for aspiring rural doctors,” Minister Coulton said.
“The new rural incentive rates are another key reform we have delivered to attract more doctors to the bush and further builds on the Coalition Government’s ten-year Stronger Rural Health Strategy.
“There isn’t a single solution to solving rural doctor shortages, that’s why the Coalition Government continues to work on a range of practical workforce, training and primary care reforms with the aim to create more sustainable community health services in rural and remote communities.”
The RBBI encourages doctors to offer medical services without out of pocket costs to vulnerable populations, including children under 16, senior Australians and concession cardholders.
Bulk-billing doctors outside metropolitan areas currently receive 150 per cent of the base BBI across the board (MM2-7). The new payment rates, based on the base BBI for metropolitan areas, will be:

  • large and medium rural locations (MM 3-4) – 160 per cent of the base rate
  • small rural locations (MM 5) –170 per cent of the base rate
  • rural locations (MM 6) – 180 per cent of the base rate, and
  • very remote locations (MM 7) – 190 per cent of the base rate.

This means, from 1 January 2022, doctors practicing in rural and remote areas will be able to receive an incentive payment of up to $12.35 per consultation.
There is no change to the RBBI rate for doctors in MM 2 locations (150 per cent).
The RBBI is an ongoing, demand-driven, program and the introduction of the progressive incentive schedule will begin on 1 January 2022 at an estimated cost of $65.8 million over the Forward Estimates.