Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

The resolve of those opposite to neglect an area in urgent need of reform means that vital changes will be brought to a standstill. After 12 years of doctor shortages, nurse shortages and bed shortages, Mr Malcolm Turnbull and the opposition are still lagging when it comes to improving the health of all Australians.

This government is working towards building a world-class health system. We know that reforming the system to deliver the care we need to improve and extend lives will be expensive and difficult—and, of course, those opposite do not want to assist in that process—but we are making the difficult decisions necessary to build a better health system for all Australians. This morning the member for North Sydney, Mr Hockey, said he would cut $14 billion in government spending, but last night his party, those opposite, blew a $1.9 billion hole in the budget. This shows that Mr Hockey does not have the nerve to make the tough decisions. He wants to cut spending instead. He has just raised it by almost $2 billion. We will bring the bill back. It will be fairer for all Australians. This measure will not affect singles. (Time expired)