Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to thank the member for Solomon for moving this motion, providing us with the opportunity to celebrate a monumental milestone in the history of our nation: the 40th anniversary of Medicare. This year marks four decades since the introduction of a healthcare system that has fundamentally transformed the way Australians access medical services. Since its inception, on 1 February 1984, Medicare has stood as a beacon of equality in ensuring that health care is not a privilege reserved for the wealthy but a right shared by all Australians, regardless of their income or background.

The establishment of Medicare was one of the most transformative moments in Australian history. It was a bold step towards creating a society where every individual could seek medical help without the fear of financial ruin. This revolutionary system was built on the principle that health care should be accessible for everyone. Medicare has evolved significantly over these 40 years, from its early days of paper claims and lengthy queues to today's streamlined digital process that allows nearly half a billion services to be processed annually. This evolution reflects not only advancements in technology but also a commitment to improving accessibility and efficiency in health care delivery.

To commemorate this historic occasion, the Albanese Labor government has launched the Stronger Medicare Award. These awards recognise primary healthcare professionals from all corners of our country who have gone above and beyond to improve the lives of Australians. I'd like to take this moment to congratulate all finalists and winners of these prestigious awards. Your dedication and hard work exemplify the spirit of Medicare and demonstrate how vital primary care is to our communities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every general practitioner, nurse, midwife, pharmacist and allied health professional working tirelessly in primary care. Your commitment keeps our communities healthy and thriving. You are the backbone of our healthcare system, and it is your unwavering service that ensures that all Australians have access to quality medical care. As we celebrate these achievements, let us reaffirm our fundamental belief: it is your Medicare card—not your credit card—that should guarantee access to quality health care. This principle is non-negotiable and must remain at the core of our health policy as we move forward.

However, we must also acknowledge that this commitment has faced challenges. The current Leader of the Opposition once attempted to introduce a tax on visits to GPs. He froze Medicare rebates, cut $50 billion from hospitals and claimed there were too many free Medicare services. He was even voted by Australia's doctors as the worst health minister in Medicare's history. These actions serve as a stark reminder that only a government dedicated to protecting and strengthening Medicare can be trusted with its future. As we look towards the future, it is essential that we continue to build on the legacy of Medicare. The recent launch of initiatives like MyMedicare aims to enhance continuity of care and improve access for patients through tailored health packages. These advancements are critical as we strive to ensure that every Australian can receive care at the right time and at the right place. Moreover, as we reflect on what has been achieved over the past four decades, we must also consider what lies ahead. The landscape of health care is consistently changing, influenced by new technologies, emerging health challenges and evolving patient needs. It is crucial that we remain adaptable and responsive to these changes, while upholding the principles that have made Medicare a cornerstone of Australian society.

In conclusion, as we celebrate 40 years of Medicare, let us honour not only its legacy but also those who fought tirelessly for its establishment and those who continue to uphold these values today. We are fortunate to live in a country where access to health care is recognised as a fundamental right—a right that must be fiercely protected against any attempt to undermine it. Let us move forward together with renewed commitment to strengthen Medicare for future generations, so that it remains a source of pride for all Australians. The Albanese Labor government is dedicated to this vital cause and committed to ensuring that every Australian can access quality health care without fear or hesitation.

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