Month: March 2022

Essential medical care is more affordable than ever before with the number of Australians receiving essential medical care with no out of pocket cost continuing to rise.

Across all Medicare services, the bulk billing rate reached a record high of 83.5 per cent in the December quarter 2021, an increase of 6.5 per cent since 2012-13. Over the 2021 calendar year, the overall bulk billing rate was 81.9 per cent, compared to 81.4 per cent in 2020. 

The number of services being bulk billed has also risen, with 413.2 million medical services being bulk billed to Medicare in 2021, 54.9 million more than 2020.

GP bulk billing rates remain at record high levels, sitting at 88.4 per cent in the December quarter 2021. This is 0.3 per cent higher than the December 2020 quarter and 6.4 per cent higher than the December 2012. Over the 2021 calendar year, the GP bulk billing rate was 88.7, 6.9 per cent higher than 2012.

This means almost nine out of 10 visits to the GP over the 2021 calendar year were provided with no out-of-pocket cost for the patient. This included 165.6 million fully subsidised GP services, a rise of 17 million or 11.4 per cent compared to 2020. 

The introduction of telehealth, which is now a permanent feature of Medicare, continues to have a critical role in maintaining patients access to care. Since its inception in March 2020, over 96 million telehealth services have been delivered to 16.8 million patients. Just under $5 billion in Medicare benefits have been paid (exclusive of bulk billing incentives).

In 2021, Medicare paid benefits for 4.1 million video consultations and 41.6 million phone consultations enabled in response to COVID-19 and provided by GPs, specialists, and allied health professionals.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the Morrison Government’s commitment to Medicare is rock solid and we continue to support the health and wellbeing of Australians more than ever.

“Through the 2021-22 Budget, our Government is investing $125.7 billion, up over $6 billion over the forward estimates, as part of our ongoing commitment to guarantee Medicare,” Minister Hunt said.

“This increased investment in Medicare also includes more than $65 million from 1 January 2022 to boost bulk billing rebates and provide more affordable healthcare particularly for patients in regional, rural, and remote areas.

The Morrison Government also continues to modernise the Medicare Benefits Schedule as recommended by medical experts, to ensure that Medicare supports up to date, best practice care.

An Albanese Labor Government and Malinauskas Labor Government will together deliver new on/off ramps for the Southern Expressway at Majors Road.
 
With $60m coming from an Albanese Labor Government and $60m from a Malinauskas Labor Government, this $120m project will mean working families across Adelaide’s south can more easily quickly get to work, get home, get to the shops and get to weekend sport.
 
The investment will allow residents in Southern Adelaide to finally access the Southern Expressway, easing congestion on other arterial roads, particularly Brighton Road.
 
Residents of Southern Adelaide have been campaigning for these ramps to be constructed for years, yet they have been repeatedly ignored by the Morrison-Joyce and Marshall Governments.
 
Without these ramps, families in Hallett Cove, Sheidow Park, Trott Park and O’Halloran Hill are unable to access the Southern Expressway, the Darlington upgrade and the future non-stop north-south corridor, forced instead to head down the already busy Brighton Road.
 
It’s left coastal residents in Marino, Seacliff, Brighton, Hove, Somerton Park and Glenelg forced to sit in increased congestion, with motorists left with no alternative route to the city.
 
In addition, Labor will upgrade Brighton Road intersections at Brighton Road/Wattle Street/Dunrobin Road and Brighton Road/Edwards Street and upgrade signalling on the Seaford rail line to optimise train operations, reduce delays from speed limitations and closure of at-grade crossings.
 
These additional investments totalling $40 million will further address congestion on Brighton road, helping residents get home faster and safer.
 
Scott Morrison and Steven Marshall have failed to deliver for locals across Southern Adelaide, forcing working families to spend more time stuck in traffic and less time at home.
 
These projects will ease congestion, give Brighton Road back to locals and deliver a better life to commuters across Adelaide’s south.
 
Only an Albanese Labor Government and Malinauskas Labor Government will deliver real action to ease congestion.

A new submarine base will be built on the east coast of Australia to support the nation’s new nuclear-powered submarines, providing deployment opportunities in both the Indian and Pacific oceans. 

The new Future Navy Base will add capacity and capability to Fleet Base West in Western Australia, home of the Navy’s Collins-class submarines, which will also receive significant funding to support Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines and enable regular visits from the United States and United Kingdom’s nuclear-powered submarines.

The Department of Defence estimates that more than $10 billion will be needed for facility and infrastructure requirements to transition from Collins to the future nuclear-powered submarines, including the new east coast submarine base.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the decision to establish an east coast submarine base has been underway for many years and would enhance Australia’s strategic deterrent capability in the Pacific Ocean.

“Australia faces a difficult and dangerous security environment and we must continue to invest in growing the capability of our ADF to ensure we keep Australians safe,” the Prime Minister said.

“Under our AUKUS partnership with the United States and the United Kingdom we will have access to the best technology in the world to support our efforts to deter threats against our national interest in the Indo-Pacific.

“This new 20-year investment is vital for our strategic capabilities, but it will also provide long-term economic opportunities at both our submarine bases on the east coast and on the west coast.

“Our investments will also flow into our operations in Western Australia, with significant funding flowing to upgrade facilities there for our future submarines and to support our allies in the United States and United Kingdom.

“Fleet Base West will remain home to our current and future submarines, given its strategic importance on the Indian Ocean.”

Following significant work by the Department of Defence, which reviewed 19 potential sites, three preferred locations on the east coast have been identified, being Brisbane, Newcastle, and Port Kembla.

The locations were selected on submarine basing criteria, which included access to exercise operating areas, proximity to industrial infrastructure, and significant population centres to support personnel and recruitment. 

Minister for Defence Peter Dutton said the Australian Defence Force had not constructed a major new base since Robertson Barracks in the 1990s, and an extensive process would now begin.

“We took the important decision in 2021 to pursue nuclear-powered submarines with the support of our American and British partners, in response to the changing strategic environment,” Minister Dutton said.

“Nuclear-powered submarines have superior characteristics of stealth, speed, manoeuvrability, survivability and endurance when compared to conventional submarines. 

“With the ability to operate from both coasts, this will make our nuclear-powered submarines more responsive and resilient to meet the strategic environment.

“Today’s announcement will ensure Australia has the infrastructure and facilities ready to support those submarines when they enter service.

“A new Navy base on the east coast will also have significant advantages for training, personnel and for Australia’s defence industry.”

Navy’s current fleet of Collins-class submarines and other maritime capabilities will be able to be operated out of the new east coast base, which will provide critical support to the ADF’s undersea capability.

Defence will engage with state and local governments to determine the optimal site, which will be informed by the ongoing work of the Nuclear Powered Submarine Taskforce. This initial work is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.

A year on since the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety’s Final Report: Care, Dignity and Respect and now into the third year of the pandemic, Dementia Australia reiterates the need for a robust aged care system to provide quality care to people living with dementia.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said the Royal Commission highlighted the deficiencies and complexities of the aged care system with the pandemic placing additional and ongoing pressures on the health and aged care systems.

“The ever-changing landscape and challenges of the pandemic have reinforced, more than ever, the need for these recommendations to be actioned,” Ms McCabe said.

“Significant reform is already underway in response to the Royal Commission’s recommendations.

“The federal government responded through an investment of $229.4 million in dementia that is providing the impetus for systemic change required in the aged care industry.

“The funding allocation to Dementia Australia is enabling the expansion of and increased access to services through the National Dementia Support Program like the National Dementia Helpline, counselling, post-diagnostic support programs, early intervention programs and education sessions.

“Reforms focusing on provider compliance and accountability to ensure stronger mechanisms for quality dementia care are welcomed.

“Minimising restrictive practices, expanding quality indicators into home care, expanding the Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS) and the development of a new framework for regulating aged care and a new Aged Care Act will improve the system.”

While the funding allocation was significant there is much to be done to fulfil on the recommendations of the Royal Commission.

Dementia Australia’s 2022-23 Federal Pre-Budget Submission calls for support of crucial initiatives to deliver quality care including compulsory dementia education for the aged care workforce and investment in education programs and tools.

“We know from our work and broad consultation with people living with dementia, their families and carers, that if we get quality care right for people living with dementia then there will be quality care for all,” Ms McCabe said.

“For the sector to deliver quality dementia care as a consistent and integral part of aged care, we must support our workforce, strengthen their knowledge and skills and develop practice leaders and mentors.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is presenting significant challenges for the sector – together we must work to ensure better care for people living with dementia now and into the future.”

Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated half a million Australians living with dementia, and the almost 1.6 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.

For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available and the Helpline is open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday excluding public holidays. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au

SafeWork NSW is urging people to be wary of flood waters and muddy soil that could be contaminated by an infectious zoonotic disease.

Leptospirosis is transmitted to humans from domestic and wild animals including mice and rats, livestock, pigs, pets and wildlife. It can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills, headaches, muscle aches, cough, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and conjunctivitis.

SafeWork NSW Director of Health and Safe Design, Jim Kelly, said outbreaks are common after floods and are usually associated with flood water contaminated with the urine or tissues of infected animals.

“People most at risk are those who have close contact with animals or who are exposed to water, mud, soil, or plants that have been contaminated ,” Mr Kelly said.

“This could be anyone in a flood scenario as the contaminated water and mud are spread across properties and many people are involved in rescues, repairs and clean-up work.

“Obviously it is difficult to avoid contact with flood waters but if possible, wear protective clothing such as waterproof shoes or boots and gloves (even dishwashing gloves) and ensure broken skin is covered with a waterproof dressing.

“Anyone involved in clean-up efforts should also wear goggles and an apron, especially if working with animals and make sure to shower and wash cuts and grazes with soap.”

Mr Kelly said symptoms usually develop between five and 14 days following infection – although it can develop from two to 30 days and last from a few days to three weeks, or longer.

“Leptospirosis can be treated with antibiotics and a doctor may prescribe them before testing for infection. Testing can take some time and the disease can be severe,” Mr Kelly said.

“Make sure if you have any of the symptoms you mention this disease to your doctor.

“The risk will also be around sometime after the flood waters recede so don’t delay cleaning up rubbish and removing food sources that are close to facilities or accommodation.”

For more information visit safework.nsw.gov.au/safety-alerts/safety-alerts/bacterial-infection-leptospirosis

The Greens have called out the Morrison Government’s refusal to mandate waste and recycling targets as a key reason Aussies will again be found cleaning up the mess of big packaging companies this Clean Up Australia Day. 
 
Greens spokesperson for waste and recycling, Senator Peter Whish-Wilson said: 
 
“It shouldn’t be up to citizens to pick up the mess big packaging companies make, but every Clean Up Australia Day that’s exactly what we’re left doing because of our Government’s refusal to mandate waste and recycling targets. 

“History shows that voluntary targets will never be met by big packaging companies because it’s simply too easy for them to avoid change and their social responsibility.

“Our government could mandate waste and recycling packaging targets with the stroke of a pen. This would go a long way towards keeping waste from choking our oceans and polluting our landscapes. 

“The Greens have a waste and recycling policy that legislates a national approach to phasing out key single-use plastics by 2025, legislates a national approach to container deposit schemes, supports a Global Plastics Treaty, and mandates national packaging targets in law. 

“In the balance of power after the federal election, we will push the next Government to adopt the Greens’ plan and end the waste and recycling crisis for good.”

For the first time in Victorian history, a First Nations Senator is bringing an entirely Aboriginal Senate Ticket to a federal election. The Greens Senator Lidia Thorpe, a Gunnai, Gunditjmara and DjabWurrung woman, will be backed by First Nations activists and community leaders.

“Everyone benefits from First Nations knowledge. It’s time to put us in the driver’s seat to build a better future and safer climate for everyone in this country. As the oldest living culture in the world, we have the solutions.” Said Thorpe. 

The ticket features Taungurung man Adam Frogley: the National Director of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Team at the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU). Adam’s passionate about free education, First Nations justice and a carbon neutral future.

Gunditjmara, Keerray Wurrung, Peek Wurrung, Djab Wurrung woman Sissy Austin has a long history of campaigning, community organising and navigating Blak politics. As a kinship carer for over seven years, she’s a strong advocate for children and families in the child protection system.

Wiradjuri, nonbinary person Zeb Payne is proud to be in a party that’s rooted in First Nations understanding and respect for the intersectional values of all people who call this country home.

“Your vote is powerful. Greens voters put the first Aboriginal woman in the Victorian parliament and the first Aboriginal representative of this state in the federal parliament. Voting Green at the next election ensures that grassroots people have a seat at the table.” Said Thorpe.

Greens Leader Adam Bandt will today announce the Greens’ plan to make coal and gas corporations pay for recovery, including doubling the Disaster Recovery Payment to $2000 for adults and $800 for dependents, and expanding the eligibility criteria.

Bandt will call for a flood levy on coal and gas corporations to foot the bill for the mess they have made.

The government’s failure to index the payment means it has been cut in real terms by about 30%.

Greens Leader Adam Bandt MP said:

“Coal and gas are fuelling these floods. The Government should make coal and gas corporations pay to clean up the mess.

“In real terms, people are getting less money than in previous floods and fewer people are eligible for the payment.

“The current Disaster Recovery Payment is woefully inadequate and smacks of a government trying to downplay the breadth and scale of this climate disaster. The payment should be lifted to $2000 and the government should reverse its restrictions on who can get it.

“Instead of downplaying these weather events, we need to tell the truth – dangerous climate change is going to mean more tragedies each year.

“Last time we had major floods in Brisbane the bill was over $5 billion and the Government made everyday people pay a levy to clean it up. This time they should just go straight to coal corporations like Glencore and Whitehaven with the bill. 

“During the pandemic, billionaires and mining corporations posted billions of profits and collected tax breaks. Now, people who’ve lost their home or lost a loved one due to years of climate exploitation and negligence are being offered $1000. It’s outrageous.

Background – Disaster Recovery Payments

From Gympie to Ballina, entire towns have experienced the devastation of climate breakdown, and coal and gas corporations must pay for the damage. People have lost houses, cars and furniture. Tens of thousands of residents in Queensland and the Northern Rivers have been without power and drinking water for days. Many people have had to find temporary accommodation. First Nations communities are in many cases on the frontline of the devastation. They are under-resourced and hurting, and sites of significance have been impacted, like the Bundjalung Country Bora Bora ring and Banyam Baigham in Lismore.

The Disaster Recovery Payment available to people is unchanged from when the scheme was first introduced 18 years ago in 2006. Without indexing, the payment in real terms is now in fact less than 2006, representing approximately a 30% cut. The payment is not available to any temporary visa holders and therefore excludes student visas, seasonal workers and other temporary workers.

Eligibility has also been significantly narrowed compared with the 2011 floods: payments are now restricted to people whose homes have been majorly damaged by the floods, completely disregarding people who are stranded in their homes or have been without essential services.

$1.8 billion was raised and invested in the clean up efforts by the Gillard Government in 2011 through an increase in the Medicare Levy. However, the mining and burning of coal and gas has helped turn these once in a hundred year floods into once a decade – and they will accelerate. Coal and gas companies, profiting from the climate crisis, should have to pay to clean up from the disasters they are turbocharging.

80% of the coal mined in Australia is exported overseas. Coal exports are Australia’s greatest contribution to the climate emergency.

Commonwealth Disaster Recovery Payment Eligibility Criteria 2011 v 2022

2011 Eligibility Criteria

A person will be eligible for this payment if they:

1. was seriously injured, or
2. is the immediate family member of an Australian killed as a direct
3. result of the disaster, or
4.  their principal place of residence has been destroyed, or
5. their principal place of residence has sustained major damage, or
6. is unable to gain access to their principal place of residence for a period of 24 hours or more, or
7. is stranded in their principal place of residence for a period of 24 hours or more, or
8. their principal place of residence was without electricity, water, gas, sewerage services or another essential service for at least 48 hours (a utility failure) and the utility failure was caused by damage to public or private infrastructure

2022 Current Federal Government Eligibility Criteria

A person will be eligible for this payment if: 

1. you were seriously injured
2. you’re the immediate family member of an Australian citizen or resident who died or is missing
3. the flood caused major damage to your home

Federal Sports Minister Richard Colbeck and Australian Sports Commission Chair Josephine Sukkar have encouraged Australians to throw their support behind our Paralympic squad.

The small but dedicated squad of nine will today kick-start their campaigns at the Beijing Paralympic Winter Games 2022.

Minister Colbeck said the Australian Government had been proud to provide record support to Australia’s Winter Paralympics team in the lead-up to Beijing.

“It may be a small team in numbers, but we couldn’t be prouder how they have overcome huge challenges to be in Beijing representing Australia,” Minister Colbeck said.

“The Australian Government, through the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), has invested almost $5 million in Winter Paralympic sport over the past four years – an increase of some 73 per cent since the 2018 Games in PyeongChang”.

“This includes more than $800,000 in direct AIS grants to athletes”.

“It’s fantastic to see every single athlete on this Australian Paralympics team has been supported by these direct grants, along with other emerging athletes who will be targeting the 2026 Games in Milano-Cortina.”

Minister Colbeck also acknowledged the work of support teams who work behind the scenes to support athletes including Chef De Mission Kate McLoughlin and Paralympics Australia.

Australia has a proud history at the Winter Paralympics, having competed since 1976, in all collecting 34 medals – including 12 gold.

Ms Sukkar said AIS support extended beyond funding and was always about supporting athletes to progress.

“One of the most experienced athletes on the team is downhill skier Mitchell Gourley, who has worked with the AIS Engineering team since 2018 on customised 3D printed arm guards that attach to his arm prothesis and help him deflect the gate poles on course.

“Para-snowboarder Ben Tudhope was 14 when he made his Paralympic debut. At 22 he’s still the youngest member of the team, but has now progressed to be a co-captain alongside Melissa Perrine.

“We can’t wait to watch this team in action and the AIS is proud to support them, through funding and investment, innovation and technology, medicine and sport science, wellbeing and community engagement, and coaching and leadership.”

Australian Winter Paralympics Athletes

• Rae Anderson – alpine skiing
• Mitchell Gourley – alpine skiing
• Josh Hanlon – alpine skiing
• Patrick Jensen – alpine skiing
• Amelia Hodgson – sighted guide for Patrick Jensen
• Melissa Perrine – alpine skiing
• Bobbi Kelly – sighted guide for Melissa Perrine
• Sam Tait – alpine skiing
• Ben Tudhope – snowboarding